Our Word for 2025: Growth
January 1, 2025
Do you have a word for the year? While I didn’t have one last year, I’ve often embraced the practice of selecting a word or theme to guide me through the year ahead.
On New Year’s Eve, my wife and I were out for a walk, reflecting on some of the goals we’ve set for 2025. As we talked, she noticed a common thread running through them—a focus on growth. Without even realizing it, I had stumbled upon our word for the year: growth.
We’ve outlined some specific goals that reflect this theme, but we know the journey won’t be confined to what we’ve planned. Life has a way of surprising us, and we’re curious about the unexpected ways we’ll be called to grow over the next 12 months.
While working out recently, I caught a snippet of Andy Miller’s final 2024 episode of the More to the Story podcast. He shared a powerful idea: taking his word for the year and weaving it into John Wesley’s Covenant Prayer. I found the concept both inspiring and deeply personal. In fact, we had prayed this prayer as a congregation during our final Sunday morning service of 2024, making it an especially meaningful connection.
Here’s how I incorporated our theme of growth into Wesley’s famous prayer:
“I am no longer my own, but Yours.
Put me to what you will for my growth, rank me with whom You will.
Put me to doing for my growth, put me to suffering for my growth and holiness.
Let me be employed by You or laid aside for You for Your Glory and my growth,
exalted for You or brought low for You.
Let me be full, let me be empty in ways which help me grow closer to you.
Let me have all things, let me have nothing.
I freely and heartily yield all things
to Your pleasure and disposal even my own desire to grow if it gets in the way.
And now, O glorious and blessed God,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
You are mine, and I am Yours. So be it.
And the covenant which I have made on earth,
let it be ratified in heaven. Amen.”
As I was writing this prayer out I got a sense my growth goals, while not bad, may be a little different to God’s goals of growth in me. I am looking forward to exploring this concept in 2025.
Do you have a word or driving value for your 2025?
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About David Wesley Donnan
I write online about Methodism, devotional insights, and personal reflections. My primary goal is to organize my thoughts and explore meaningful topics. Along the way, I hope my writing inspires and encourages others on their journey.
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Top 2024 Moments in the Global Methodist Church
December 28, 2024
2024 has undoubtedly been the most consequential year yet for the Global Methodist Church. While I hesitate to label these as “The Top Stories,” they represent some of the moments and developments that continue to stand out in my mind from this transformative year.
The Emergence of Global Methodist Influencers
The year 2024 has brought about an intriguing media phenomenon: the emergence of prominent influencers within the Global Methodist community. While Jeffrey Rickman and Andy Miller III had already been active in media prior to this year, their influence has grown significantly.
Jeffrey’s Plain Spoken youtube channel experienced a surge in engagement during the spring, as his coverage encompassed broader Methodist topics. Meanwhile, Andy solidified his reputation as a leading voice in the community by securing exclusive interviews with episcopal candidates for the Global Methodist Church during the latter half of the year.
As someone who has been podcasting for nearly five years, I am genuinely impressed by their ability to consistently produce such a high volume of thoughtful, impactful content. Their dedication and work ethic are truly inspiring.
The Rise of Wesley Biblical Seminary
Just a few years ago, I couldn’t have told you much about Wesley Biblical Seminary or even where it was located. In my conference, the Asbury Seminary-to-pulpit pipeline had long been the gold standard for producing our most effective pastors.
Now, however, we’re witnessing a remarkable shift as more pastors and ministry candidates gravitate toward Wesley Biblical Seminary. This growth can be attributed to several factors, chief among them being the seminary’s early and intentional focus on serving the Global Methodist Church, coupled with their exceptional course of study.
Adding to their momentum is the leadership of Andy Miller III, who, as mentioned earlier, is not only a gifted influencer but now also serves as the seminary’s president. Andy’s visionary leadership, teaching ability, and genuine kindness have further elevated Wesley Biblical Seminary’s reputation and appeal.
The First General Conference
The Global Methodist Church held its historic convening General Conference in Costa Rica, marking a vibrant celebration of God’s work and an eager anticipation of what lies ahead.
Hosting the conference outside the United States was a significant and deliberate statement, reflecting the church’s commitment to being truly global in its mission, ministry, and practice. It underscored the church’s vision of embracing a worldwide community and shared faith.
The success of the event was made possible by the extraordinary efforts of leaders like Beth Ann Cook and countless dedicated staff and volunteers, whose hard work and passion brought this inspiring gathering to life.
New and Decentralization of Leadership
In the early days of the Global Methodist Church, leadership and decision-making were primarily concentrated in the hands of two bishops, a chief connectional officer, and the Transitional Leadership Council. Each of these individuals and groups played a vital role, laying the foundation for the church’s mission and vision through their exceptional efforts.
The convening General Conference, as mentioned earlier, marked a turning point by introducing a new leadership structure. Among the most notable developments was the election of six new bishops, each bringing a rich and diverse background in Methodism to their roles. These men and women are already making a significant impact, serving the church with dedication, wisdom, and a shared commitment to its global mission.
Global Methodist Member Killed in Donald Trump Assassination Attempt
On July 11th, during an assassination attempt on then-presidential candidate Donald Trump, a member of the Global Methodist Church, Corey Comperatore, tragically lost his life while shielding his family.
Corey was remembered with heartfelt words from his pastor: “Corey’s love for Jesus was clear in the way he lived his life. He served his family, his church, his community, and his country [U.S. Army Reserves], and he did all that with a heart of service to the Lord.”
Bishop Mark Webb also honored Corey’s legacy, stating, “Everything I have heard about Corey points to a man who loved his family deeply and lived his faith in very significant ways.”
As another political cycle concludes, this family faces a loss that can never be undone. Let us continue to lift them in our prayers.
Keith Boyette Retires
Keith Boyette, both a pastor and a lawyer, may well have been the single most influential figure in the establishment of the Global Methodist Church. Recently, Keith retired from his role as the Global Methodist Church’s Chief Connectional Officer.
During his tenure, he provided invaluable legal expertise and spiritual counsel to churches and pastors navigating the complex reorganization of Methodism. His leadership and dedication were pivotal during this transformative period.
You can learn more about Keith’s remarkable contributions and his retirement in a feature article published by Christianity Today.
- The Man Who Made Global Methodism Possible – Christianity Today Feature by Daniel Silliman
- Global Methodist Church Announces Keith Boyette Retirement
What Did I Miss?
So much more happened in 2024 that deserves to be celebrated and remembered! What moments stand out to you? Comment below and share what you’ll remember most. What significant events or milestones did I miss that absolutely should have been included? Let’s honor this incredible year together!
David Donnan 