Newsletter: June 2026
3rd UMV Network Annual Meeting a Success!
Two weekends ago, the UMV network hosted it's 3rd annual meeting. Approximately 80 participants attended keynote talks, equipping sessions and some amazing meals. We left with a sense of community and connectedness, gratefulness and tools to bring back to our churches as we serve in the Kingdom.
On Friday, June 12th, the UMV Ordination Team hosted a Learning and Equipping session for Tier One pastors to assist them with Greek and Hebrew as they study the original translations for sermon prep. We also learned about commentaries and how to put what we have learned into practice for congregations.
Saturday began with a great meal and fellowship then a welcome and worship from the great brothers and sisters from First Reformed Church, Sully, Iowa. Dr. David Rylaarsdam spoke on discipleship in ancient times and connected the what and why we do or need to do to today. Ten different breakout sessions were offered to participants as well as a delicious Italian lunch. At the brief business meeting, we said goodbye to Craig Maasdam, Larry Sailer and Kent Landhuis and thanked them for their dutiful and loving service for three years. We welcomed Joe Michmershuizen (new East Central cluster leader), Russell Muilenburg (new Pleasant Prairie cluster leader) and Daniel Barnett (elected as at-large board member). Greg Alderman gave an update on the denomination and Ron Fischer reviewed the 2025 report with churches.
We again thank First Reformed Church Sully, Iowa and the "Sully Army" for all they did to make for a great annual meeting! Next year will be at Emmanuel Reformed Church in Morrison, IL, June 11-12, 2027.
UMV Network 2025 Annual Report
Click here to read about the accomplishments of the network for 2025. Our network continues to be out in front as we serve our churches in their communities!
Prayer Requests
We are sad to report the passing of Pastor Luke Schouten's wife. We are all in great prayer for Luke and his family during this very difficult time. Please call the church for more information on services (815) 772-3890.
Did you know that you can submit prayer requests to our Prayer Team Leader, Cindy Summers? Click here to submit a prayer request for you and your church.
Do you know Accountable Reimbursement Plans?
Do you receive or issue reimbursements for pastors or staff? Did you know that if you do not have a Consistory/board approved Accountable Reimbursement Plan that the reimbursement is taxable to the staff member or minister?
Don't get caught paying more taxes than you need to, check out this excellent article explaining how a little effort goes a long way in taxes.
REGISTRATION OPENS JULY 1ST FOR OUR 2ND ANNUAL PASTOR'S RETREAT
Mark your calendars for our Pastor's Retreat on September 9th-11th at Ridge Haven's Cono Center in Walker, Iowa! We'll start that afternoon on Wednesday and conclude on Friday morning. Thrive Coaching Networks' Jeff Allen and Network Leader Ron Fischer will be leading a time of focusing on Solitude, Silence and Prayer and how this helps us personally and looking deeper at our churches and what is to come. Registration will open on July 1st, make plans to attend.
Recent UMV Network Articles
