Louisiana United Methodist Conference Launches $15 Million Jubilee Initiative

The Louisiana Conference of The United Methodist Church has announced the Jubilee Initiative, a $15 million funding program aimed at supporting its remaining congregations. The initiative allocates $5 million to eliminate existing church debt, while the remaining $10 million is designated for the development and expansion of new ministry projects. Conference leaders stated that the funds were sourced from strategic reserves and investment earnings.

This initiative follows a period of significant transition for the regional body. According to UM News, 162 congregations departed the Louisiana Conference between 2022 and 2023, a trend linked to broader denominational debates regarding the ordination of noncelibate gay clergy and the blessing of same-sex unions.

Rev. Van Stinson, executive director of Mission and Ministry, described the program as a strategic effort to foster "missional momentum" and equip churches for future growth. Conference officials have begun contacting all congregations with reported capital debt to facilitate the distribution of funds, with the process expected to conclude by the end of October.