Lighthouse Congregations are local churches in the Susquehanna Conference that are particularly equipped to welcome anyone whose church has closed or disaffiliated and who wish to remain in the United Methodist Church. These congregations will act as a resting place for those seeking a new United Methodist faith community, with people who will care for and provide a haven of peace and grace.
Lighthouse Congregations will:
- Provide a welcoming place to belong during this time of grief and transition, which might be for just a season or for a lifetime. This includes a safe space with caring relationships, listening hearts, and unconditional love within a congregation that is confident it is remaining in the UMC.
- Offer ministry opportunities in which to engage – or not. There will be no pressure.
- Organize groups by proactively finding and connecting with individuals and groups displaced by disaffiliating churches.
- Connect individuals or groups with Conference and District resources to help them discern their next steps as they consider a new church home.
Whether you are an individual or a group of people who have become displaced or churchless because of closing or disaffiliation, Lighthouse Congregations will be there for you during this difficult time. As you consider what is next, specific pathways from which you may choose will continue to emerge as the Conference, Districts, and local churches come together to be the connection at its best.
If you have any questions, please email Rev. Dr. Kathleen E. Kind.
The Lighthouse Congregation ministry in SUSUMC has been adapted with thanks and gratitude from the Western North Carolina Conference and the UM Collective of North Carolina.