You are invited to participate in the global initiative to strengthen theological education worldwide as The Endowment for Theological Education in Africa, Europe, and the Philippines, initiated by the Council of Bishops, is launching the “Love Boldly, Serve Joyfully, Lead Courageously – Miracle Sunday” Initiative in 2026. The Virginia’s Conference campaign begins September 6 and concludes with Miracle Sunday on October 11.
This year, 30,000 United Methodist congregations are invited into a God-led, Holy Spirit-empowered emphasis to Love Boldly, Serve Joyfully, and Lead Courageously. Each congregation is asked to extend the vision of the church through study and the receipt of a special offering to provide for a permanent endowment to help support 500 students annually prepare for pastoral ministry across Africa, Europe, and the Philippines.
The initiative, approved by the Council of Bishops, the Connectional Table, and the General Council on Finance and Administration, calls The United Methodist Church into a season of worship, learning, and generosity.
Virginia’s Campaign launches September 6
Beginning September 6, Virginia United Methodist congregations are invited to participate in a six-week study of “Love Boldly, Serve Joyfully and Lead Courageously.” During worship and in small group study, thoughtfully produced video resources will bring to life vivid stories of faith from across Africa, Europe, and the Philippines and highlight the transformative impact of theological education on local congregations and their communities. The emphasis culminates on Miracle Sunday, October 11 with the receipt of a special offering for the Endowment.
How will this effort strengthen theological education?
Did you know that In the United States, 71% of clergy spiritual leaders hold a master’s degree in theology yet outside the US, fewer than 5% do. This emphasis aims to address this disparity by strengthening the Endowment for Theological Education outside the U.S. — securing support for the formation of pastoral leaders for generations to come.
Preparatory resources are now available
The conference website, www.vaumc.org/miraclesunday, has the materials you need to prepare – a Congregational Coordinator Manual and a Worship & Small Group Resource – all written by leaders of the United Methodist Church in Africa, Europe and the Philippines, along with a number of brief videos for worship and small group study. Each district will also have several coordinators who will be in touch with you over the next few months to offer guidance, support and answer questions.
Thank you for helping to develop leaders who can witness for Jesus Christ and for helping to close the disparity gap through your support for this campaign for theological education in Africa, Europe and the Philippines.
Blessings, Rob Vaughn
Virginia Conference Coordinator for the Campaign