In a powerful demonstration of unity and vision, Bishop Hee-Soo Jung recently convened leaders from 60 of Ohio’s largest United Methodist churches and major ethnic congregations for a transformative gathering focused on renewal and multiplication. The event, marked by uplifting worship and collaboration, centered on a bold, Spirit-led vision, establishing 100 new faith communities across Ohio to lay a strong foundation for the future of The United Methodist Church in the state.

“We are creating hope for the world. We are creating excitement for the world. We are creating a new church for the world. God is calling us to a divine-size dream for Ohio,” Bishop Jung said, inspiring attendees to partner in building a vibrant future for the denomination.

John Wesley believed the gospel was too powerful to remain contained within one place, one people or one generation. That’s why multiplication is so important. Starting new faith communities, new churches, fresh expressions, new worship services or supporting and sending others into the “field” is key to reaching new people for Christ.

To do this, Bishop Jung called for a cultural shift.

“We need to change our language of retention to a language of recruitment. We forgot how to witness about Jesus Christ to the world. May we change our culture of retention to a culture of evangelism, a culture of recruitment, a culture of building new faith communities,” Jung said.

Rev. Cecil Thompson, senior pastor of Epworth UMC in Toledo, said the church is going back to what he calls the basics. “Christ is at the center and Jesus is the one who’s calling you and me. I am excited to be a part of this.”

Rev. Cindy Patterson, administrative pastor at Church of the Saviour in Cleveland Heights, highlighted the spirit of collaboration, noting that church size has nothing to do with it. She said Bishop Jung is calling every pastor and every congregation to share resources, knowledge and encouragement so the Ohio Episcopal Area can reach the goal of 100 new faith communities by 2029.

Rev. Andy Call, lead pastor of Church of the Saviour, expressed excitement about the vision. “You cannot listen to Bishop Jung talk about this vision of Multiply Ohio without getting excited. I’m excited to get to work.”

Future events are planned to continue building momentum for growth and renewal. Brad Aycock, executive director of Fresh Starts and New Beginnings for the Ohio Episcopal Area, encourages every local church to dream boldly and start with a unified prayer asking God to provide a vision to reach people for Jesus.

Rev. Liz Trigg, associate pastor of Epworth UMC in Toledo, said God calls all of us to do the work of prayer, of connecting with people, of serving people, loving people — and God is the one who supplies the rest. “God is way ahead of us in all of this,” Trigg said.

For more information, contact Brad Aycock in the Office of Fresh Starts and New Beginnings at bradaycock@wocumc.org.