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

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Loan to Saint Mark UMC Lays Groundwork for Future Ministries

Saint Mark UMC in Atlanta has a long history of drawing people to Christ through its missions and outreach ministries. The Breakfast Club and Supper Club feed over 120 homeless persons weekly. Every year, members and staff alike participate in numerous building projects to assist needy families living in Atlanta, rural Central Appalachia and Honduras. Week after week, countless folks are blessed by a vibrant music and fine arts ministry and a growing children’s program.

Several years ago, Saint Mark took out two loans and acquired property for the purpose of addressing future parking and ministry needs. In 2009, Saint Mark UMC saved a significant amount of money and secured its financial future by refinancing the loans into one $2.1 million loan with the Georgia United Methodist Foundation.

“Purchasing these properties probably was the only way we could expand. We were trying to think not just five years, but 50 years and 100 years down the road,” said the Rev. Jimmy Moor, senior pastor of Saint Mark.  “The refinancing of the loans is laying the groundwork for a stronger future in ministry than we have right now.”

Thanks to God, the vision of the leaders at Saint Mark, and a low-interest loan from the Foundation, this missions-minded church can use the new facilities to enhance existing ministries or create new ones that share the love of Christ.