06/21/2026
The Foundation announced a financial gift, recognized three partner ministries with a new award, and celebrated President David Snipes on his 25th year at Annual Conference. It all happened Saturday during the Annual Meeting of the Membership in Stuart Auditorium.
Board Chair Jennifer Davis called the Foundation’s theme for this year, Passion for the Possible, a timely reminder for those in the room. The inspiration comes from Matthew 17:20: “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can move mountains and nothing will be impossible for you.”
“We have faced a few mountains in the United Methodist Church, haven’t we?” Jennifer asked, drawing applause in response. “At the Foundation, our call is to help you find your footing.”
President David Snipes announced a $70,000 tithe from surplus funds over the past two years, which accompanies a 10% tithe of income from the operating budget (The amount for 2025 is $244,200).
“We preach and teach faithful financial stewardship,” David said. “This is about making sure our actions live up to our words.”
Saturday’s gathering marked a milestone for David, who received an ovation as he spoke to delegates for the 25th consecutive year. David recalled his appointment to the Foundation in March 2002.
“Like many of us early in our ministry, I had no idea what I was doing,” David said. “I suggested to the board that maybe we should focus our mission differently. Let’s quit focusing on the money. And let’s start focusing on the ministry. When you get the ministry right, the money comes, folks, believe me.”
The Foundation has grown to become the third largest among its peers in the Connection, with total assets of $396 million at the end of 2025. Steady growth reflects a record of multiplying gifts so that all may flourish. Read more using the link below.