Each such special project is identified in one or more of a variety of catalogues that are frequently sent to the local church. For example, a booklet received recently, entitled ABCs: Advance Book of Children's Projects, identifies projects that address the needs of various ministries to children (including the Neighborhood Center in Utica, code #982149-3). Other catalogues describe mission projects around the world. The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) maintains a recorded message service (1-800-841-1235) that describes the most recently identified needs (for example, relief work in response to natural disasters).

Individuals and church groups may contribute to particular projects by writing a check payable to the Clinton United Methodist Church or to "Advance GCFA." The Advance project name and associated code number should be written in the lower-left corner of the check. The check may be mailed to the church or placed in the collection plate on Sunday morning. It may of interest to note that the entire amount of the contribution--ONE HUNDRED PERCENT--goes to the designated project. Administrative costs are already covered by the annual apportionments, described above.

Through small gifts and large, United Methodists have contributed $25 million dollars a year or more to Advance projects in recent years. If you would like to know more about the Advance and the projects it supports, please contact the pastor or the chair of the work area on Missions.