Dear GNJ Leaders and our congregations,
We hope you and your families had a Blessed Easter, and we thank you for your patience and grace over the past week as our staff took part in a week of renewal. The following are essential actions and information for this week. We encourage you to read this information carefully as it impacts your congregations and your communities.
1. PPP Deadline Extended Until May 31 – All Clergy and Laity
The deadline to submit applications for funding from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has been extended by two months to May 31. For details, visit here.
2. Vaccine Distribution Expands – All Clergy and Laity
Gov. Murphy yesterday announced that he was removing all restrictions in New Jersey for those 16 and older on April 19. Yesterday was also the first day anyone 55 and older could make an appointment as the state works toward getting 70% of its adult population — about 4.7 million people — vaccinated by June. For all the latest updates related to the vaccine, including a free transportation service for Medicaid recipients, click here. Additional details in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, including educational resources to share with your congregations, are also available.
3. Native American Ministries Sunday (NAMS) – All Clergy and Laity
Typically celebrated on the third Sunday of Easter, this year on April 18, NAMS nurtures this mission by providing scholarships for United Methodist Native American seminarians. The collection taken that day helps to develop and strengthen Native American ministries in GNJ, Native American rural, urban, reservation ministries and communities relating to the General Board of Global Ministries. Native Americans bring many unique languages, cultures and mores to their 124 churches, including GNJ’s St. John’s Fordville. Through NAMS, United Methodists can equip and empower Native American pastors, congregations and seminary students to preserve their heritage and honor their past. Learn more on the CoNAM webpage.
In Christ,
GNJ Leadership
Quick links to information in this email:
PPP Deadline Extended Until May 31
Vaccination/Reopening Updates
CoNAM webpage