At Kirkwood UMC we know that participating in God’s renewal story doesn’t just mean personal spiritual renewal. It means bringing hope and renewal to the least of these. It means creating spaces where the lonely, the hurting, the struggling, and the stranger find hope and community. When we participate in God’s renewal story, we are participating in God’s renewal not just for us, but for the whole weary world. 

During this short 6-month fiscal year, I have already seen so much of God’s renewal unfold. The people of KUMC have passionately responded to relief efforts and justice issues. I have seen people finding new ways to serve and help neighbors both locally and globally. I have seen new families connect and find a church home. I have seen weary souls refreshed and inspired, not just on Sundays — but through community groups and events that happen between worship services.  This is a place where the grieving are surrounded with care and support, where kids and youth find life-giving community, and where people of all ages join together to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously. I see folks from our community finding a safe place to connect. From after school Play Cafe in the gym, to over 100 children participating in VBS, to local missional partnerships and trips to Guatemala, to a growing youth group for our teens, to AA and Al Anon groups, to Life Groups and support groups, and so much more —  every single week hundreds of people utilize KUMC’s building and resources. Every week, we bring renewal to countless individuals and to our community. And I believe God has even more renewal in store in 2026.