The Board of Directors, executive committee and staff of the Institute for Local Church Growth (ILCG) graciously announce endorsement of the Benchmark Project by, and ILCG partnership with, the Texas Annual Conference (TAC).  It is the common goal and primary mission of the ILCG and TAC to cultivate, grow and support Vibrant Missional Congregations.  This recognized partnership is a critical turning point and marks a significant milestone in the continuing growth and success of the Benchmark Project.  This event further corroborates and confirms the importance of the research conducted at the ILCG.  The TAC employs a number of strategies focusing on assisting local churches to grow and, we at the ILCG, are humbled to be recognized as a partner that significantly aides in accomplishing the mission of congregational growth and making disciples of Christ.  Bishop Scott J. Jones recently stated, “Our experience with the Benchmark [Project] run by [the] ILCG has been positive and we are grateful for the expertise and process brought to bear in the strengthening of local churches that invest in the process.”  We cannot agree more with Bishop Jones that investment in the local church now will provide the strength to navigate a full denomination through to a bright and glorious future in the Kingdom.  We at the ILCG look forward to many years of working together with the TAC in this new partnership and are full of great hope for the future of the Methodist denomination.