The Lord is at work at Effort United Methodist Church!  On Easter Sunday, Effort UMC experienced an enormous blessing as they welcomed 20 persons into membership (including one adult baptism) as they celebrated the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

This new beginning wasn’t the work of a moment, but the result of a season of discipleship. Each new member participated in three membership classes (from January – March 2025) where they had the opportunity to grow in their faith and build connections with the larger faith community. Each member was provided with a long-time member who would serve as their sponsor. During the three membership classes, we covered biblical passages on membership, what we believe, using your God-given gifts, and that in becoming a member we are challenged to use our time, talent, treasure, worship, and witness to glorify God and his church. Both new members and sponsors read “I am a Church Member” by Thoma Rainer, and both shared that they were blessed by the reading.

On Easter Sunday, each sponsor stood before the congregation and introduced the new member they had walked beside during the membership class. One sponsor shared with Rev. Kuhlne, “I was so blessed to walk along side (my new member) and get to know her during this process.” 

Truly, it is more blessed to give than to receive. When we give of ourselves in relationship and service to others, we find that we are blessed in the process. Every week, during the “Sending Forth / Benediction” the people of God’s Church in Effort Pennsylvania are challenged with the question, “Whom will you invite?”  Clearly our people are inviting, and through these weekly invitations, God is at work in wonderful ways!