2027-2031 Strategic Priorities

Read Pastor J.J.’s letter and download the booklet below.

Friends,

It is only after many years in exile when the children of Israel, through the prophet Isaiah, heard these words from God: “I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth; do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” As God’s children, we believe that this divine promise of transformation and renewal is made to us today, too. Through these Strategic Priorities—and the commitments we make towards them—we prayerfully offer ourselves to God, and to what God will do and is already doing through the people called United Methodist Church of the Cross.

As the world around us becomes more divided, and the Gospel is falsely used to further that division, we choose a different, more excellent way. That is why our priorities and commitments are rooted in who we are: a compassionate community of faith welcoming all people seeking to follow Jesus. Regardless of our differences, God calls us to graciously live together as one through authentic worship, deeper discipleship and service, and loving fellowship.

Over the next five years, we will make significant changes and investments to welcome more people into our community. We do this not to “grow the church,” but rather to be faithful witnesses of Jesus’ Gospel of love, freedom, and abundant life throughout Salina for many years to come.

This kind of work is not easy—but we are not alone in doing it. God is with us.

In love,

The Rev. J.J. Martinez
Pastor