New York, Dec. 9, 2015 — In the fall of 2016, Global Ministries, the mission agency of The United Methodist Church, located in New York City for almost 200 years, will move to its new home in Atlanta, Ga. The move to Atlanta — a catalyst for envisioning new ways to connect the church in mission — is a pivotal moment in the life of Global Ministries and the people with whom it serves.
With a programmatic scope encompassing the world’s major social and global health challenges, integrated with an international humanitarian aid organization providing relief from hunger and disasters, Global Ministries brings a global perspective to its work in Atlanta and Georgia.
Encouragement for the move came from local churches, universities, and organizations including Emory University, the Rollins School of Public Health, and Candler School of Theology. Others expressing encouragement are The Carter Center, Clark Atlanta University, and Gammon Theological Seminary.
In March 2015, Global Ministries purchased property from Grace United Methodist Church at 458 Ponce De Leon Avenue, where Grace and Global Ministries will share common space.
A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Jan. 19, 2016 at 2:00 p.m., at Grace UMC, where Global Ministries’ staff will celebrate with Atlanta community leaders and partner organizations. When asked about the groundbreaking ceremony, Thomas Kemper, Global Ministries’ general secretary, stated, “Groundbreaking ceremonies typically memorialize new building construction. For Global Ministries, groundbreaking means breaking open new spaces for innovation and collaboration, deepening relationships with the church in Atlanta, and embarking in new partnerships with our neighbors and local communities.”
Working with Collins Cooper Carusi Architects of Atlanta, Global Ministries has developed a renovation project with completion and move-in scheduled for August 2016.
When asked about the progress of Global Ministries’ relocation project, Roland Fernandes, general treasurer, said, “Although the renovations have not started, it has been incredible how this project has come together in a very short time period. So many pieces have fallen into place despite several unforeseen issues.” Fernandes added, “We have completed the hard design on schedule and now await the approval to move ahead with the actual work from January. Truly God is at work here!”
Global Ministries’ commitment to environmentalism is evident in their attention to green renovations. Jim Winer, AIA LEED Accredited Professional of Make3 Architecture/Planning/Design, is providing programming and program management services. According to Winer, “The North building, where office and meeting space will be located, is currently registered with the U.S. Green Building Council and is designed for LEED Gold Certification. Winer further noted, “The building upgrades include a significantly more energy efficient building with high-performance glass, added fresh-air systems, water-efficient plumbing fixtures, and a photovoltaic solar array. In addition to the energy features, the project will include recycled and low-emitting materials to improve indoor air quality.”
As prescribed by The United Methodist Church’s legislative body, known as the General Conference, Global Ministries is the “missional instrument” for the church in the United States and the world. Having begun in 1820 in New York City, Global Ministries today supports 350 missionaries in 60 countries, including the United States, with personnel, projects, and partners in 136 countries. Learn more about Global Ministries by visiting umcmission.org.
Last Updated on November 2, 2023