St. Joe UMC
For The Future
For
The Future
Investing in spaces so ministry can grow For The Fort- for years to come
Since the days of Johnny Appleseed, St. Joe United Methodist Church (UMC) has been a beacon of faith, hope, and love. What started on the banks of the Saint Joseph River grew into a small, white, wooden church. Flourishing, the church grew to need a new building where the presence of the stained glass Gentle Shepherd was raised. The Gentle Shepherd glass journeyed with the congregation as it grew fruitfully for the future to yet another building on the corner of Reed and St. Joe Center Road. St. Joe UMC continues to prosper as it now does ministry at Praise Park, the YMCA, and beyond, as a testament of God’s love in our community.
To remain a vital and vibrant witness for generations to come, we must boldly invest in our facilities, ministry partnerships, and guest experience. The For the Future Capital Campaign calls us to address critical infrastructure needs at our 6004 Reed Road campus, enhance our ministry at Praise Park, and create welcoming spaces that inspire connection and growth. Together, we can ensure that St. Joe UMC remains "For the Fort"—faithfully, fearlessly, and fruitfully For The Future
On March 25, 2025 the Church Council of St Joe UMC called for Church Conferences on the following matters. These conferences met at 6:30pm on Monday April 14, 2025.
Church Conference 1: APPROVED For the approval of the ‘For the Future’ campaign with the following amendments: 1) the offices and music rooms will not be moved or renovated, 2) the portico concept will be retained and moved to the current B entrance with renovation of B hallway and bathrooms also retained, 3) minor adjustments to office area may still be possible to open more welcome space, 4) if funding is available the renovation of the kitchen will become priority, 5) if funding is available additional funds may be spent at Praise Park to support ministry development in that space. (The estimated costs to be raised not exceeding $950,000 in planning).
Church Conference 2: APPROVED For the approval of a long-term use of space agreement at Praise Park with Jackson Lehman YMCA.
Church Conference 3: APPROVED For the approval of a long-term use of space agreement with Northeast Little League Softball.
Faithful
Critical Infrastructure renovations to honor our church's legacy and care for the sacred spaces entrusted to us
Fearless
Boldly investing in Praise Park to build connections within the Fort Wayne Community.
Fruitful
Developing new ministries to share the gospel and foster discipleship, ensuring lives are transformed through Jesus Christ.