Work Areas

The purpose of the Board of Gifts and Bequests is to support the life and mission of the First United Methodist Church of Downers Grove. The Board promotes the growth of the church's endowed funds, in support of its ministry within the community. Through prudent administrative and investment policy, the Board strives to ensure the church's endowed funds remain a vital force for the church and its congregation for generations to come.

Members may not be members of any other committees or work areas.

The Bridge Board at First United Methodist Church is a partner with Bridge Communities, a non-profit organization with offices in Glen Ellyn whose mission is to:

• Inspire and effect change by advocating for homeless families.
• Provide services and opportunities that connect families to a better future.
• Collaborate with faith-based partners, community groups and businesses to leverage resources and create long-term solutions.
• Lead by example through our innovative programs and grassroots involvement.

The DGFUMC Bridge Board currently sponsors one family in partnership with Bridge Communities.

The Environmental Stewardship Work Area helps us become responsible stewards of God's creation, and care for humankind. We

• Provide environmental education
• Encourage individual and corporate green living habits
• Help the church take steps to make our facilities more energy efficient and earth friendly
• Provide avenues for environmental social action

This work area works to keep the congregation informed on health and safety issues.

We encourage prayer, study and action in the areas of world peace and order, human welfare, political and human rights, social, economic, and environmental justice, and survival.  We share in missions that serve locally, nationally and extend around the globe.  We support ministries that benefit children, youth and adults, as well as the work of missionaries.

The Staff-Parish Relations Committee is the administrative unit in a local church where staff and congregational interests are integrated to focus on the mission of the church. Specific tasks for the SPRC include:

• explaining the nature and function of ministry to the staff and the congregation
• conferring with the congregation and the staff/pastor about ministry direction
• assessing the ministry of the congregation and the staff/pastor at least annually
• conferring and consulting with the district superintendent
• supporting lifelong learning for all staff (continuing education)
• identifying and supporting individuals from the congregation whom God seems to be calling for ordained ministry
• making recommendations regarding compensation, travel, benefits, and housing to the church council
• recommending needed staff positions and developing written job descriptions and titles for associate pastors and staff

All must be members of DGFUMC, one must be a young adult.