Missions

Based on this "Great Commission" (Matt. 28:19-20) Mariposa United Methodist Church has stated its purpose: "We Build Relationships in an Ever-Changing World that Last for Eternity."

We meet people where they are, sharing God's love in an ever-changing world.

First, we have a direct responsibility for people of the "world" around our church, the community in which we and others study, work, shop, play, and so forth. In this world are people with many hurts, doubts, and questions. There are some who are new in the community and feel a little lost, some who are proudly self-sufficient, and others who are in desperate circumstances. Our mission is to reach out to them, listen to them, accept them, share the gospel by living it out daily, telling our personal story, engaging in respectful conversations, and being present in community life — all with love, humility, and openness to the Holy Spirit’s work.

The second task is to offer people opportunities for growing closer to God. Whether they are visitors or old-time members, just beginning the journey of faith or well along the road-all are in need of God's love in Christ. Through worship, prayer, study, and honest sharing, we help one another discover that the Holy Spirit is not far off but present with us, wanting an open and loving friendship with each of us-not only friendship but commitment as well. Through our congregation's various ministries, we encourage one another to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ in a hurting and at times troubled world.

Thirdly, our mission is to nurture people of all ages, faith, and to help them to practice and to follow Jesus' teachings through acts of compassion, justice, worship, and devotion. The church exists not to serve itself but to serve the world. We come to church not only for our own personal enrichment but to prepare ourselves to do the work of love in the community. United Methodists are strengthened for both ministry and daily life through a combination of spiritual formation, connectional support, and practical discipleship that integrates faith with action.