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

With the support of the Georgia United Methodist Foundation, Bethlehem First UMC launched a capital campaign in May 2008. On March 29, 2009, they hosted a groundbreaking ceremony in celebration of Phase 1 of their Building Expansion.

“We are building a Family Life Center to meet the spiritual and recreational needs of our growing community,” said the Rev. Parker Benson, pastor of Bethlehem First UMC. “At first it was overwhelming that we were going to try and raise $3.25 million. The Foundation helped us succeed with our capital campaign in a greater way than we had even imagined. We couldn’t have done it without them.”

It was important to the Rev. Benson and the parishioners to work with a faith-based organization that had their best interests at heart. “We believe that everything belongs to God and that we are simply stewards of what we have for this brief time that we are here,” he said. “The Foundation understands that. They wanted us to succeed. And we did. They gave us the ability and the wisdom to raise the necessary funds to expand our facility.”

When complete, the Family Life Center will feature a contemporary worship center, youth center, gymnasium with a basketball court, walking track, fitness and concession areas, choir room, and an office suite.