Milford First Designated a North Star Congregation

John 8:12: "I am the light of the world."

The North Star is the anchor of the northern sky. It can be a helpful guiding light to those who are looking for a purposeful direction. Historically, the North Star has always provided a beacon of hope in times of uncertainty. At the invitation of District Superintendent, Rev. Jenn Lucas, Milford First’s Visioning Board recently agreed to join a growing list of churches within the West Ohio Conference designated as North Star Congregations.

North Star Congregations are local churches in the West Ohio Conference that are prepared to welcome anyone whose church has closed or disaffiliated. There is a place for all in the United Methodist Church.

A North Star Congregation is committed to:

1. the mission of the United Methodist Church with no intentions of disaffiliating.

2. being a welcoming place for everyone to belong to during a season of grief, transition, and uncertainty. This season could be as long or as short as needed. They offer care, relationship, and love. They share access to their spaces and resources.

3. providing opportunities to engage in their ministries, without pressure.

• Worship: online and/or in person

• Discipleship: spaces to learn and grow through small group gatherings, Bible studies, and prayer opportunities for all ages

• Mission: opportunities to serve through hands-on missions and ministries to share God’s love with others

4. connecting people with other North Star Congregations in the region. If one church is not a good fit in this season of life, they will help connect families or individuals with another North Star Congregation. It’s part of being Connectional.

If you’d like to learn more about Milford First’s involvement in this exciting initiative, please contact Fred Thomas, or visit westohioumc.org/northstar.