Annual Charter/Annual Charter Recertification
What does Chartering/Certifying enable and create? The reason we have the materials, the resources and professional staff that make us a leader in men’s and scouting ministry is because we have churches like yours who faithfully support us. If you have a need or a ministry idea, a mission project or a want to find a devotional guide for the men of your church, call us or email us. Our staff of seven in Nashville and our four Deployed staff are here to serve God by serving you and your church.
What are we Chartering/Certifying? One of the most impactful ministries within your congregation is an intentional ministry to, through and for men. A church that is engaging men grows in all aspects of discipleship and church life. So each year, by our tradition and by the Book of Discipline, every church is asked to Charter the men’s ministry of your entire church. It is a way of supporting, resourcing and celebrating all the ministries that involve each man in your congregation. It is not just the men who have a monthly meeting, but it encompasses all the men who contribute and are blessed by the ministries of your church.
Why Charter/Certify? United Methodist Men is the largest, most organized men’s organization of any denomination. We are the second largest sponsor of Boy Scouts of America in the world. We have resources, materials, best practices, ideas, and inspiration to help every man fulfill his mission to make disciples of Christ for the transformation of the world.
● We publish an outstanding Men’s Magazine with challenging articles from leaders in ministry as well as celebrations of successful ministries in scouting and with men.
● Your General Commission on United Methodist Men (GCUMM) has a staff that creates and distributes materials, provides workshops and webinars, presents at local, district and conference events, and represents men’s ministry and scouting ministry at all levels of the United Methodist Church.
● Our bi-monthly e-newsletter inspires thousands of men and women around the world. Each year we mail thousands of packets of the most current materials to our Chartered churches.
● Annual Charter Fees are the main source of funding for all these ministries.
● GCUMM raises 75% of its budget; this is the highest self-funding level of any agency or commission of the United Methodist Church. In short, your Charter Fee is what fully funds our ministry, and your Charter fee helps us resource other churches in the connection – who may be struggling.
When do we need to do this? Charters are based on the calendar year, so invoices go out each Fall via email and postal mail. If your church or your men’s ministry leaders are not getting materials from us, either by email or postal mail, then we likely do not have your current information. You can get information flowing to you again by emailing your contact information to [email protected]. If this is a new Charter and this is mid-year, email us and we will prorate the $85 fee.