The Missouri United Methodist Foundation will present special workshops prior to the 2025 Annual Conference. These are open to ANYONE whether attending Annual Conference or not! To register and pay, please contact Laura Murphy (lmurphy@mumf.org).
Date: June 5, 2025 (Thursday)
Location: Church of the Shepherd 1601 Woodstone Dr., St. Charles, MO 63304
Time: 2 pm to 8pm. Doors open at 1:15pm (Come to all or any events). * Please note the start time change from 1 p.m.
Dinner: Box dinner included for all participants.
Cost: $20 (includes dinner)
Pre-Conference Workshop Schedule
2-3:30 – We Aren’t Broke – Uncovering Hidden Resources for Mission and Ministry
The Rev. Mark Elsdon, author of “We Aren’t Broke” will share his expertise about how church property has the potential to become a more vibrant place of service in the community while also providing additional revenue. Churches of all sizes will learn the benefits of social enterprise, impact investing, and how church property can be used for creative, sustainable ministry.”
4-5:30 – Good Funerals, Lasting Legacies—Getting the dead where they need to go, and the living where they need to be.
Join Thomas Lynch, renowned funeral director, poet, and author of “The Good Funeral,” for a profound and engaging exploration of what makes a good funeral—and why it matters. With his signature blend of wisdom, wit, and deep humanity, Lynch reminds people in all ages and stages of life that funerals are not just about the dead but about guiding the living toward meaning, healing, and legacy. Thomas Lynch’s insight brings a beautiful perspective to putting your house in order.
5:30-6:15 – Dinner
A variety of boxed dinners from McAllister’s Deli. Please note dietary restrictions at registration.
6:30-8pm – Break out sessions (Choose one)
OPTION #1: Putting Your House in Order Workshop
Planning for the future and making end-of-life decisions can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Join Rev. Laura Murphy for the Putting Your House in Order workshop, where you’ll receive practical guidance on organizing your personal, financial, and legal affairs. Whether you’re thinking about wills, estate planning, or leaving a lasting legacy, this workshop will help you take the next steps with confidence and help you engage in meaningful conversations with loved ones about your wishes, values, and priorities. All laity and clergy will find this useful for themselves as well as learn more about offering this workshop in their own local churches.
OPTION #2 Church Financial Well-being Workshop
Presented by Chris Bouchard, C2FM Associate Director, this workshop is designed to provide resources and assistance to review financial policies and practices. Workshop topics include discussion of policies and practices for handling cash and other donations, bill paying practices, separation of duties, and ensuring compliance with policies. This workshop is helpful to pastors, financial staff, church board, and finance committee members.
OPTION #3 FAQ’s on Long-term Financial Sustainability and Legal Matters in the Church.
David Atkins, JD and CEO of the Missouri United Methodist Foundation, has been helping the United Methodist Churches of Missouri for 28 years. David will share the answers to the most asked questions he’s responded to when talking with church boards, pastors, and church leaders. These FAQ’s span topics like church investments, endowments, gift acceptance policies, reducing insurance cost through self-insurance programs, being aware of legal red-flags, when a church should consult a lawyer, and more!