On Saturday October 3rd North Liberty First United Methodist Church was awarded Best Fresh Expression by the Iowa Conference of The United Methodist Church during the Bishop's Inspire Awards gala for MOC2: Ministry Outreach Center.
Fresh Expressions are: new forms of Christian community that emerge in the places where people already live, work, and gather. They often begin with shared interests or simple acts of hospitality. Over time, prayer, discipleship, and authentic community grow, and a new form of church unfolds—right where people are. This isn’t a program. It’s a movement of ordinary Christians living with Gospel intention, forming authentic relationships, and opening new pathways for people to experience Christ’s love. (Fresh Expressions as an Innovative Church )
From the Bishop's Inspire Awards Program:
When the North Liberty Food Pantry moved from the North Liberty First UMC campus on July 1, 2025, questions arose about what would happen to the 2,000-square-foot pantry building. Within six months, the space was refreshed and became a launching pad for new and existing ministries serving North Liberty, Johnson County, and the church community.
Shifting Gears Bicycle Ministry transformed the space into a "Third Space/Fresh Expression," with bicycle repair stations, puzzles, coffee, and hot chocolate. Volunteers repair donated bikes for spring and summer giveaways and provide tools and guidance for community members repairing their own bikes. By July 20, more than 140 bicycles and helmets had been distributed, many to people referred by the food pantry and lowa City's Inside/Outside re-entry program.
The space also hosts Senior Saints, small groups, service organizations, and family gatherings, with yoga and art therapy planned.
Flourish Health and Wellness Ministries provides health education and blood pressure screenings and partners with the Community Medical Lending Library to distribute durable medical equipment.
Outside, a community garden and orchard provide produce for community partners.
This reclaimed space is becoming a place where ministries flourish, relationships grow, and God's love is shared throughout the community.
We give thanks for all of the church and community members for helping bring new life to the Ministry Outreach Center!
Remember the Blood Drive October 11 and weekly hours for the Medical Lending Library begin Wednesdays and Saturdays, starting October 14th!
To learn more about the Ministry Outreach Center contact the church office!
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