Committees
Another way to be involved in the church is by joining a committee.Committees provide opportunities for members to contribute their unique skills and talents towards the growth and mission of First United Methodist Church. Whether you have a passion for outreach, worship, education, or community building, there’s a committee for you. Join us in making a difference and strengthening our church community. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
Administrative Council
The Administrative Council of the church plays a crucial role in planning and implementing various programs that focus on nurturing, outreach, witnessing, and utilizing resources within the local church. It is also responsible for the efficient administration of the organization and its temporal affairs.
With a vision-driven approach, the council ensures the successful execution and annual evaluation of the church’s mission and ministry. Serving as the administrative agency of the charge conference, the council consists of dedicated individuals including committee chairs, lay leaders, annual conference delegates, and members at large.
Together, we strive to create a vibrant and inclusive environment where all members can actively contribute and participate in the church’s growth. Join us in fostering a stronger sense of community and making a positive impact within and beyond our walls.
The council meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 7:00 PM.
Steve Swanson
Ad Council Chairperson
Jim Flinspach
SPPR Chairperson
Staff/Pastor Parish Relations (SPPR)
The Staff/Pastor Parish Relations (SPPR) committee plays a crucial role in supporting our dedicated pastor and staff, fostering unity within our church community. The committee is responsible for addressing matters related to the effectiveness of our ministry. Additionally, they serve as a valuable resource for communicating and interpreting the nature and function of ministry in the United Methodist Church to our congregation.
In fulfilling their leadership role, committee members are encouraged to prioritize their own spiritual development. Ideally, the committee engages in profound biblical and theological reflections, exploring the broader mission of the Church and the various ministries carried out within our local church.
Join us in this vital committee as we work together to nurture our church community, promote effective ministry, and deepen our understanding of God’s calling in our lives and in the world.
This committee meets the first Monday of the month at 7:05 PM.
Finance
The finance committee’s primary focus is to diligently oversee the stewardship of the church’s financial resources. With careful planning, strategic implementation, and resourceful strategies, the committee ensures the availability of necessary funds for the mission and ministries of the local church and beyond.
This committee meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 5:15 PM.
Megan Nelson
Finance Chairperson
Missions Chairperson
Missions
The core mission of this committee is to embody the compassionate actions of Jesus. Our primary role involves carefully selecting and providing financial support to various groups and organizations, both locally and globally. We are actively involved in organizing impactful initiatives such as the School Supply Drive and the Ingathering Health Kits. Additionally, we strive to engage in meaningful work projects, such as volunteering at Bidwell-Riverside or the Food Bank Distribution Center in Ottumwa.
This committee currently meets on the second Monday of each month at 6:30 PM.
Worship
This committee plays a crucial role in assisting the Pastor with the planning and execution of our worship services. With a focus on creating meaningful and engaging experiences, they work closely with the Pastor to ensure each service is impactful and spiritually enriching. This dedicated team also provides valuable support for special worship services like Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter. Additionally, they work on planning alternative worship services that cater to the diverse needs of our wider community.
This committee meets on the fourth Monday of the month at 6:30 PM.
Staci Kraemer
Worship Chairperson
Trustees Chairperson
Trustees
The purpose of the Trustees committee is to diligently oversee and care for all the church’s valuable property, buildings, and equipment. Their primary goal is to ensure these assets are well-maintained to accomplish the greater mission of the church. On an annual basis, Trustees conduct thorough reviews of property, liability, and crime insurance coverage for all church-owned properties. This proactive approach helps safeguard the church’s interests.
Trustees convene on the fourth Tuesday of every month at 6:30 PM.
Christian Education
Our committee is dedicated to guiding the educational program of our church. We are passionate about identifying, recruiting, and training exceptional teachers and volunteers who will create transformative educational experiences for our community. With a focus on nurturing spiritual growth, our committee oversees the education budget and ensures the availability of resources necessary to enrich the educational life of our church. We believe in promoting inclusivity and encouraging active participation from all members of our congregation.
This committee meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 5:15 PM.
Elly Stremsterfer
Christian Education Chairperson
Elly Stremsterfer
Higher Education Chairperson
Higher Education
The purpose of this committee is to provide valuable scholarship opportunities from the Higher Education Endowment Fund to high-achieving graduating seniors and dedicated individuals who are continuing their undergraduate studies.
This committee meets a few times a year typically in the spring,
Leadership Development
Formerly known as the Nomination Committee, the Leadership Development team plays a crucial role in identifying and inviting individuals to take up positions of spiritual leadership within our organization. Their primary objective is to extend these invitations, delicately handle the responses received, and provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to the selected individuals. With their dedicated efforts, the committee diligently compiles a meticulous nominations list to present to the charge conference, ensuring that our spiritual leaders are chosen with utmost care and consideration.
This committee meets a few times a year typically in late summer and early fall.
Leadership Development Chairperson
Amy Burkhart
Memorials Chairperson
Memorials
This committee is dedicated to upholding an accurate record of memorial contributions made to our cherished church. We hold the responsibility of ensuring that these contributions are utilized in alignment with the heartfelt desires of the contributors or the dear family of the departed. With utmost reverence, we strive to honor their intentions and preserve the memory of their loved ones.
This committee meets as needed.
Lay Leader
The purpose of this role is to effectively represent and advocate for the laypeople within our congregation, while collaborating closely with the pastor to fulfill the mission and vision of our community. As a vital member of the Administrative Council, Finance, Staff/Pastor Parish Relations, Christian Education, and Leadership Development committees, the lay leader plays a crucial role in ensuring the success and growth of our congregation.
Lay Leader
Lay Delegate to Annual Conference
Lay Delegate to Annual Conference
Experience the power of influence as a Lay Delegate at the Annual Conference. With voting authority over key areas such as Finance, Leadership Development, Staff/Pastor Parish Relations, and Administrative Council, your voice shapes the direction of our organization. By actively participating in decision-making processes, you contribute to effective financial management, foster leadership growth, nurture positive staff and pastor relationships, and ensure seamless administrative operations.
Member at Large to Ad Council
Members at Large play a vital role in governing our congregation through their representation on the Administrative Council. They serve as the voice of our community. With a term of service lasting three years, their vote and input carry significant weight when it comes to shaping the direction of our faith community.
Member at Large to Ad Council