David Worthington to Visit Big Rapids

United Methodist Ministries of Mecosta County (UMMMC), in partnership with the Central Bay and Western Waters Districts, is excited to welcome David Worthington, the United Methodist Church’s Global Ambassador of Methodist Heritage Sites, for a special regional gathering this October at our First Church campus (First United Methodist Church, 304 Elm St, Big Rapids MI 49307).

“We’re thrilled to welcome David to Michigan, and of course to Big Rapids!” said Rev. Jeremy Wicks, Executive Pastor of United Methodist Ministries of Mecosta County. “David has a unique gift for helping us see how our Methodist story shapes our mission today. This is a great opportunity for congregations and leaders from across the region to learn, be inspired, and connect with the global movement we are part of – to be reminded of who we are and who God is calling us to be.”

David brings decades of experience in preserving and sharing the Wesleyan story. A graduate of Staffordshire University, he spent twenty years in the financial and charity sectors in Bristol before becoming Manager of John Wesley’s New Room in 2006, the oldest Methodist building in the world.

During his tenure, he oversaw major heritage celebrations, including the 300th anniversary of Charles Wesley’s birth and the bicentennial of Britain’s abolition of the slave trade. He also led two successful capital campaigns that transformed the New Room into a vibrant center for visitors, complete with an expanded museum, library, meeting rooms, and café.

David has made more than one hundred presentations across twenty U.S. states, building connections between Methodists in the United Kingdom and the United States. In 2024, the General Commission on Archives and History (GCAH) appointed him as Global Ambassador of Methodist Heritage Sites. In this role, he promotes and preserves Methodist landmarks through public speaking, research, fundraising, and mission engagement.

David’s visit is an opportunity to celebrate our shared Wesleyan story, to be reminded of the global movement we are part of, and to explore how our Methodist heritage can continue to shape mission today. As David himself often says: “Preserving our history is an act of shaping our future.”

We hope you will join us – whether in person or online – for this inspiring time of learning and connection.

EVENT DETAILS

• Thursday, October 9, 2025 – Regional Gathering with David Worthington:  This event, hosted by First Church in partnership with the Central Bay and Western Waters Districts, will bring together laity and leaders from across our area.  Event will begin light refreshments at 6:45 pm and program starting at 7:00 pm.
• Sunday, October 12, 2025 – Worship with David Worthington:  David will bring the message during morning worship, inspiring us with insights drawn from our Methodist heritage and its relevance for today.  Worship will begin at 10:00 am.

Both events are free to attend and will also be livestreamed on the Big Rapids First United Methodist Church Facebook page (facebook.com/brfumc).  Let us know you will be attending by sending an email to [email protected] with your name, the names of anyone attending, and the event(s) you are registering for.

SUPPORTING THE WORK

Individuals, churches, and organizations are invited to support David and the work of the General Commission on Archives and History. Contributions may be made at either event. Online gifts can be given at ummecosta.org/give. Select the “Missions” option and note “Worthington.”

About United Methodist Ministries of Mecosta County

United Methodist Ministries of Mecosta County (UMMMC) is a multi-campus faith community dedicated to making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Embedded in its community, UMMMC equips disciples, fosters innovation, and builds partnerships to create lasting change. With three campuses in the Big Rapids area, UMMMC seeks to meet the needs of its neighbors by creating welcoming, diverse spaces, engaging in bold ministry initiatives, and forming meaningful connections with organizations and churches across the region.