09/04/2026
In this month’s blog, Bishop David Bard returns from summer leave with reflections on discipleship and renewal, drawing on daily prayer to ask how our churches can love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously.
BISHOP DAVID ALAN BARD
Michigan Conference
As I return from my summer renewal leave, I have been reflecting on the renewal of the Church. The mission of the Church, as articulated by The United Methodist Church, is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. Our new vision statement helps describe who disciples of Jesus Christ are — people who, inspired by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously. Forming disciples who transform the world is at the heart of who we are. How might we engage this task more deeply and invite more people to join the adventure of discipleship?
I have no easy answers or a quick, guaranteed formula, only a few thoughts to share. Beginning with prayer is always a good idea. Pray for your own discipleship. Pray for the renewal of your church’s ministry. Pray for renewal in The United Methodist Church.
I have been thinking about another prayer, one I pray frequently, that moved me to reflect on the renewal of the church and its ministry in new ways. Most days, I pray this prayer: New every morning is your love, Great God of light, and all day long you are working for good in the world. Stir up in us a desire to serve you, to live peacefully with our neighbors, and to devote each day to your Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ the Lord. Amen. It is part of the order for morning prayer in our United Methodist worship resources.
Read more: https://michiganumc.org/thoughts-on-church-renewal-start-with-prayer/
