NEWS

Orchard Path UMC Discontinued

"Plant seeds of faith whose shade you may never enjoy!"

These words appear in the vision statement of Orchard Path United Methodist Church, but they could easily be applied across our denomination. 

Orchard Path UMC (North Coast District) is a “mission-minded community” in Broadview Heights.  Rev. David Rittgers was appointed in 2008 and the church was launched in 2009 as a New Church Start.  From the beginning, the East Ohio Conference, the North Coast District and the staff and congregation of Orchard Path have stepped out in faith together, as a team, to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

There have been many joys along the way: individuals accepting Christ into their life for the first time, others advancing further down the path in their own faith walk and a congregation coming together to aid those in need – like the hurricane victims in Haiti, for whom Orchard Path donated $500.

The journey has included its share of frustrations, too: inconsistent attendance and the inability to be self-sustaining lead the list. 

After prayerful consideration the decision has been made to discontinue Orchard Path.  January 8 will be the church’s last service. It will be a service of celebration for the ministry of Orchard Path. 
There is sadness that the “team” did not reach its desired goal – chartering a new church.  But there is joy in the new seeds that are beginning to sprout, seeds that continue to need nourishing. 

A plan is being designed for East Ohio to celebrate the ministry of Orchard Path, take responsibility for those who have come into fellowship there and allow for transition to one of our United Methodist Churches.

Rev. David Rittgers will begin a new appointment at Leroy United Methodist Church (Firelands District) effective Feb. 1.

There is still important, life-giving work to be done in East Ohio.  This work is being carried out daily in our more than 750 churches and agencies across the conference.  It is work that can only be accomplished by living out our faith. 

Each time we step out to witness for God we are never sure how we will be received or when we may see the fruits of our labor but isn’t the reward worth the risks?