Hello friends!
Well, 2025 has been a wild ride. We have dealt with many issues in our society and in our Church. We gathered this past summer and said with ONE voice that we stand for justice. I have seen how many of our communities of faith are living that out this past fall. Through the government shutdown and the removal of SNAP benefits, I saw a Church coalesce and bring the love of God to those who are suffering.
This past year, New Church Ministry has continued to support and undergird our Church’s efforts in justice work. Through our online seminar series, New Church Impact, we invited experts to discuss activism and organizing at both micro and macro levels. When we talk about equipping leaders, we partnered with la Obra Hispana in conducting the first all-Spanish-speaking new leaders’ event. Additionally, we are partnering with our other racial and ethnic ministries to train more leaders to start new Disciple places of worship. We are also beginning new partnerships within our own denomination. For instance, in 2026, our Leadership Academy curriculum will be hosted on Phillips Theological Seminary’s learning management system as a learning track through the Lay School of Ministry. We are also partnering with the Youth Leadership Symposium to ensure that our younger generation feels empowered to be the leaders that God has created them to be for our Church. Lastly, we have worked with over 50% of our regions to support their efforts to start new faith communities.
Over the next year, we will find new ways to partner with our regions and general ministries to start new congregations that reflect true community, deep Christian spirituality, and a passion for justice. However, you are the piece that makes it all happen with your support. We want to thank all of you for supporting New Church Ministry this past year. We are seeing a steady increase in giving to our ministry, which in turn helps us serve our Church. Please continue to provide your financial and spiritual support.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Jose Martinez
An excerpt of this blog post appeared in the December 2025 issue of the New Church Know-It-All.
