United Methodists moving missions headquarters to Atlanta
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The United Methodist Church's missions agency is moving its headquarters from New York City, where it has been based for nearly 200 years, to Atlanta.
Global Ministries said in a statement that it plans to move into space in Georgia's capital city in the fall of 2016. A groundbreaking ceremony is planned for Tuesday afternoon.
The organization says about 150 employees will move into the new midtown Atlanta headquarters.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Global Ministries says it supports 350 missionaries in 60 countries.
Thomas Kemper, the mission board's top executive, told the United Methodist News Service that international flights through Atlanta's airport; a lower cost of living for employees; and the ability to partner with organizations such as Emory University and the Carter Center were all factors in the relocation decision.