Capital Campaign Held for First United Methodist Church of Erie

For nearly a century and a half, the congregation of the First United Methodist Church of Erie has worshipped in the same building, faithfully serving both inner city and suburban residents. Through that time, Erie has changed dramatically, with businesses leaving, with Gannon College replacing many residential houses, and with a once thriving commercial and business area becoming increasingly abandoned. Nonetheless, the people of Erie First UMC have accepted the challenges brought about by such changes, and are determined to remain and continue to echo the voice of Christ in the area.

In 2003, the congregation unanimously accepted a plan to renew the heart of the church by upgrading its facilities, making the church more accessible, usable, safe, and attractive. Included in Erie First's Renewal Plan were a new entranceway and foyer, stair tower elevator to provide access to five church levels, and a ramp for persons to reach the Fellowship Hall. It also included remodeling existing and adding new restrooms, relocating pastoral and business offices, and developing new landscaping.

Erie First UMC called upon the United Methodist Foundation of Western Pennsylvania to provide the leadership for the Capital Fund Raising Phase of this Renewal Plan. First, the Foundation led a Planning Study, which indicated that a successful campaign could be held. A four-month campaign was established to achieve a financial goal of $325,000 over a three-year time period.

The United Methodist Foundation then provided leadership, training, supporting manuals for 90+ volunteers, and regular consultations with the Erie First directors. Working with Resource Services, Inc., the Foundation's Field Staff also supplied a consultant who worked with the church throughout the campaign.

At the celebration service following the campaign, the Campaign Director announced that over $360,000 had been committed to the Renewal Plan, with additional commitments still forthcoming.

The main themes of a United Methodist Foundation Capital Campaign, such as that held on behalf of Erie First UMC, are biblically and spiritually based. Our approach does not ask for Equal Gifts but does ask for Equal Sacrifice. It challenges people to pray for God's direct leadership in the determination of their giving over and above gifts for other current church needs.