New Year, New Me?

As we step into 2025, the phrase "New Year, New Me!" seems to be everywhere. It’s an inspiring sentiment—aspiring to growth, change, and new opportunities. But as I’ve reflected on this idea, I wonder: Is the new me entirely about starting over, or could it be about becoming more of who God created us to be?

Scripture reminds us in 2 Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" This verse doesn’t erase our past. Instead, it calls us to transformation—a process of being crafted by God’s hand, building upon our victories and learning from our defeats. Each step of our journey is part of who we are, and through His grace, God shapes us daily into the likeness of Christ.

The church is much like this. The idea of "New Year, New Me" cannot discount the journey a church has already traveled—the challenges it has overcome, the growth it has experienced, and the unique way God has used it in ministry. Just as individuals are shaped by their past, so too are congregations and ministries. Our stories—both triumphant and challenging—are essential in crafting the next chapter.

At the Florida United Methodist Foundation, we deeply honor these stories. Whether through financial stewardship, clergy care, or ministry partnerships, we remain committed to recognizing the narrative of the past while helping to shape the vision for a bright future. Our mission is to support and empower the growth of Christian ministry, and that means walking alongside churches and leaders as they build upon their foundations of faith to pursue new possibilities.

As we journey through this new year together, let us not forget that God loves who we have always been and is faithfully crafting us into who we are divinely created to be. May this year bring renewal, not by disregarding the past, but by embracing it and allowing God to transform it for His glory.

Here’s to a year of growth, transformation, and faithful ministry together!

Blessings,

Rev. Edward S. New

President & CEO

Florida United Methodist Foundation