The Wayne C. Barrett Steward Leader Award was established by action of the Board of Directors of the Foundation upon Dr. Barrett’s retirement as President and Executive Director.
The purpose of this award is to honor up to six United Methodist congregations across the Michigan Area for their exemplary stewardship ministry and culture of generosity.
Qualified applicants must submit an application prior to January 31st of the year in which they are to be considered for the award. Applications are available online at www.umfmichigan.org.
Award recipients must meet a number of eligibility requirements including:
- Have funds invested in the UMF Collective Investment Funds of Michigan LLC
- Have contributed 100% of its conference ministry shares for the previous year and be current in contributions for the present fiscal year
- Demonstrate a collaborative relationship between the pastor and laity in providing leadership in the area of financial stewardship
- Articulate a clearly defined mission and vision for the church
- Adhere to the financial procedures and protocol as defined in the Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church, including but not limited to:
- Socially responsible investing
- Annual financial review
- Cash management
- IRS-compliant donor contribution statements
- Provide an advance indication of their intent for the awarded funds’ usage
Award recipients shall be selected by the Awards and Grants Committee of the Foundation’s Board of Directors and notified in early May. Awards will be presented by a member of the Foundation staff to local church leaders during a worship service or other appropriate occasion. Direct any questions to the Foundation office 888451-1929 or [email protected].
About The Rev. Dr. Wayne C. Barrett: He has served the Foundation since 1982 training and consulting with nearly 1,000 congregations regarding planned giving, capital funding, and stewardship development.
A prolific author, Wayne has written featured articles for leading church-related magazines and has penned three best-selling stewardship books, including Get Well! Stay Well!: Prescriptions for a Financially Healthy Congregation, published by Discipleship Resources. Dr. Barrett also served as editor of the Clergy Finance Letter.
A much-in-demand speaker, Wayne has served as featured presenter throughout the U.S. and Canada, including the North American Conference on Christian Philanthropy, the United Methodist Convocation on Development, and The Planned Giving School.
Dr. Barrett is married and resides with his wife, Linda, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. They have three adult children and four grandchildren.
Last Updated on December 15, 2023