In partnership with Discipleship Ministries, the Susquehanna Conference presents the One Matters Award to one church in each of our districts at Annual Conference.
This award has a strong focus on making disciples because, by integrating into the church body, an individual may experience the personal transformation to potentially engage in the church’s mission for the transformation of the world. While most Discipleship Ministries programs focus on existing members, OMA focuses on new members. After all, ONE Matters.
The following congregations received the One Matters Award in 2025:
Freedom Trail District
Salem Guldens UMC
Mountain Valley District
Covenant UMC, Lockhaven
North Central Rivers District
Eatonville UMC & Evans Falls UMC
Northern Wilds District
Millerton UMC
River Valley District
Faith UMC, Hallam
Covenant UMC, Lockhaven
Mountain Valley District
Covenant United Methodist Church in Lock Haven is becoming a beacon of light in its community. Since Pastor Justin Frear's appointment in July 2022, the church has embraced a renewed vision rooted in prayer, discernment, and relationship. With a new discipleship pathway, members are growing more confident in sharing their faith - through both actions and words.
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Their outreach began with a local work camp, One Family at a Time, which is now a cluster-sponsored ministry that helps neighbors with essential home repairs. This inspired a Toolbox Ministry, offering year-round support for small home projects. The church also brings worship beyond its walls with an annual service in the park, creating space for those not yet ready to enter the sanctuary.
New minsitries are emerging organically - a grief support group launched by a visitor (now becoming a member) and the Covenant Cafe, offering care for those with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Several connected through these ministries now attend worship. In this seaon of growth, the church has celebrated two baptisms and continues to bless the community by providing food to 60 local schoolchildren through Blessings in a Backpack.
Covenant is living its mission - one relationship, one neighbor, one life at a time.
