A condensed story appears in the Foundation’s newly published Annual Report …and God Does the Rest. The theme alludes to doing our part with the full assurance that faith brings.
The church’s location in Brunswick County – a destination known for beaches, golf courses, and retirement communities – affords a unique opportunity for mission.
Seaside puts flyers in vacation rental packets to encourage visitors to drop off food before heading home. The church’s drive-through food pantry attracts a line of cars each week, and 90% of donations are distributed within 48 hours.
Edge of the Field Free Store provides essential items and a dignified shopping experience. A month-long summer literacy program welcomes students for reading instruction followed by field trips, swimming, dance, and family dinner nights.
“We are a 7-days-a-week church,” says Rev. Dr. Matt Farabow, appointed lead pastor in 2022 after 20 years in the Western North Carolina Conference.
Brunswick County ranks No. 1 in population growth state-wide (48% over the past decade, compared to the statewide average of 11%). The congregation has found purpose in serving neighbors who struggle to afford the cost of living. An estimated 25,000 people in the community are food insecure.
Vision for the future
Seaside sits next to a golf course that closed in the early 2010s amid financial difficulties. The landscape is changing: A development taking shape on the former course envisions 1,000 homes, a community center, and senior living complex.
Seeking to preserve green space on a portion closest to the church, Seaside leaders reached an agreement with the developer to purchase four acres — a now-or-never proposition before work moves forward.
A loan from the UMF Development Fund helped make it possible. The Foundation serves qualified United Methodist churches in the North Carolina and South Carolina conferences thanks to collegial relationships with peer foundations in these areas.
“We trust and depend on each other to help churches meet their ministry goals,” said Rev. Lynn Benson, Director of Legacy Giving for United Methodist Foundation, Inc. (serving the eastern part of North Carolina). “That’s the power of the Connection.”
The newly acquired land may one day be developed by the church. Or it could be left as green space connecting Seaside to the 1,000-home community. By having the foresight to plan for future needs, as well as form partnerships with public and private organizations in the area, Seaside is fulfilling its missional purpose.
It’s been this way since July 2, 1989, when the first services were held in a former furniture store. Three years later, Seaside moved to its current home and has remained vital ever since.
“Ministry is about showing people how much we care about them,” says Ann Pike, a church member who manages the food pantry. “That’s what church is all about, spreading the love of Jesus Christ.”
Loans for as low as $50,000 are available to support land acquisition, building expansion, existing loan refinancing, new construction, renovations, and other projects. Learn more about the UMF Development Fund Loan Program by clicking here.
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