Stories and Sightings from Across the District
“I thank my God every time I remember you… because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.”
— Philippians 1:3–6 (NRSVUE)
As I reflect on these first weeks of serving alongside you in the Capital District, my heart is filled with gratitude and hope. Thank you for the warm welcome you have extended to my family and to me. It is truly a joy and privilege to begin this new season of ministry together.
I want to express my sincere appreciation to the laity who took the time to participate in our district listening sessions and to our clergy, who welcomed the opportunity for one-on-one conversations. These gatherings have been a tremendous gift. They have allowed me to hear your stories, celebrate your ministries, and better understand the opportunities and challenges facing our congregations. Thank you for your openness, your honesty, and your commitment to the mission of Christ.
What I have discovered is deeply encouraging. Throughout the Capital District, I have witnessed faithful disciples living out the gospel in creative and life-giving ways. At Elizabeth United Methodist Church, I have been inspired by their commitment to their neighbors through a summer literacy initiative that is opening doors for children to grow in confidence and learning. At the same time, they are equipping their congregation through intentional safety training, helping ensure that every person who enters their church is welcomed into a place where they are valued, protected, and loved.
At Christ the King United Methodist Church, I rejoice as they continue to welcome new disciples into their worshiping community. Their hospitality reminds us that when we intentionally create space for others, God continues to draw people into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.
And at Fairmont United Methodist Church, I have seen a beautiful expression of holistic ministry. Their community garden is about much more than providing raised beds. They are cultivating relationships by inviting neighbors to learn how to plant, nurture, and harvest fresh fruits and vegetables, empowering families to embrace healthier and more sustainable lives. This ministry reflects our Wesleyan understanding that God’s grace cares for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.
These are only a few of the many stories I have heard and witnessed. Every church I have visited has shared examples of faithful ministry that are transforming lives in unique ways. Together, these ministries remind us that we are not isolated congregations but one connected body of Christ. As United Methodists, our connection strengthens our witness and multiplies our impact. We celebrate the diverse ways God is calling each congregation to serve while recognizing that every act of compassion, every disciple formed, every neighbor welcomed, and every life transformed is part of God’s greater work among us.
As Philippians reminds us, God has begun a good work in each of us and among all of us. My prayer is that we will continue to encourage one another, learn from one another, and boldly join together in God’s mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
Thank you for your faithfulness, your partnership, and your witness. It is a joy to serve alongside you, and I look forward with great anticipation to all that God will accomplish through the people and churches of the Capital District.
PAX Christi,
David