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
Salem Gulden’s UMC
Freedom Trail District
One matters. One life is beloved by God, a soul previous in God’s sight. At Salem-Guldens United Methodist Church in Gettysburg, PA, that truth has come to life in powerful ways.
What began as a practical effort to raise funds for stained glass window repairs became something much more. “A few years ago, the windows needed repair and maintenance,” shared Rev. Mick Dawes. But the fundraisers turned into outreach events, and those who came were invited into the life of the church. Fundraisers became friendraisers, and friendships blossomed into faith.
In time, some of these new relationships grew into something deeper. After holding a Mission Possible workshop, the church set a goal to increase membership by 10%. They offered a Lenten membership class, welcoming visitors to explore the United Methodist Church’s history, beliefs, and practices. On Pentecost Sunday, four individuals professed their faith in Jesus Christ and became members.
In 2023, the church recorded no baptisms or professions of faith. In 2024, they celebrated four professions of faith and two baptisms - evidence of spiritual renewal. And yes, the stained glass windows were restored without taking a single loan. God is clearly at work in this beloved congregation, one person at a time.
