North Georgia United Methodist - Multiplying Financial Resources for Mission and Ministry

Membership at Bethlehem First UMC has doubled since 2001 when it moved into its current facility funded by the late Harold Harrison. Sunday school attendance has also increased dramatically, forcing members to hold classes in every space available.

“Harold had a vision for our church. He moved it to a visible location in a rapidly growing area because he wanted our church to be influential in the community,” said the Rev. Parker Benson, senior pastor of Bethlehem First UMC. “In order for us to continue to be so, we have to enlarge our facilities to meet the recreational and fellowship needs of incoming families.”

The leaders at Bethlehem First knew they wanted to build a Family Life Center, but didn’t know how to raise the funds until they met with John Riley, the North Georgia United Methodist Foundation’s director of fundraising services. “We felt John had our best interests at heart and had no other motives other than to help us raise the money to expand,” Parker said.

“We conducted a thorough feasibility study, which led to the development of a fundraising plan to support a $3.25 million expansion of their existing facility,” said John. “As part of the consulting package, we also wrote a successful proposal to the Luther and Susie Harrison Foundation for $2 million.”

The official fundraising campaign began in May, 2008. To date, over $3 million has been pledged toward the three-year capital campaign entitled, “To Whom Much Is Given.” Bethlehem First plans to break ground by spring of 2009 on their Family Life Center, which will feature classrooms, a youth center, contemporary worship center, basketball court, walking track, fitness and concession areas, choir room, and an office suite.

“I am thankful for all of God’s blessings and those include the North Georgia United Methodist Foundation, which has given us the ability and the wisdom to raise the necessary funds to expand our facility,” said Parker.