In the spring of 2022, leaders from three United Methodist churches in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley came together to dream of a new way to do church. From that gathering, a cooperative parish was born—uniting Glenwood Springs, Basalt, and Carbondale congregations under a shared vision. Today, there are three buildings, each with its own unique character, but one community, deeply committed to inclusivity, belonging, and bold ministry for all people.

Carbondale Community United Methodist Church (CUMC), sits at the center of this cooperative. With fewer than 10 active members, this small congregation hasn’t allowed its size to limit its mission. Instead, it has remained hopeful, resilient, and deeply engaged with the broader Carbondale community. Whether co-hosting worship services, attending school board meetings, or organizing community events, Carbondale CUMC lives out a daily spirit of connection and service.

A Bold Act of Hospitality

In late 2022, a wave of people sought safety and shelter in Carbondale. As winter deepened, around 100 people were left with nowhere to go, many finding temporary refuge under a bridge. In response, the town quickly mobilized, and the local government reached out to area churches and nonprofits for help.

Despite an aging building, a failing furnace, and plans for future redevelopment, Carbondale CUMC said yes, becoming the only church in town to do so.

“One of the major sentiments was, ‘What a beautiful swan song for this building—to offer warmth and shelter one last time,’” shared Reverend Rebecca Dunagan. It was a decision rooted not in convenience, but in compassion. That moment became a defining example of the church’s culture: openness, courage, and responsive faith.

Rebuilding With Purpose

Carbondale CUMC is preparing for a transformation with support from A Table for All. The existing building, with a cornerstone dating back to the 1920s, is no longer sustainable. Through partnerships with local architects, builders, and community stakeholders, the church will level the structure and rebuild from the ground up.

But this is not just about constructing a new church; it’s about reimagining what church means in Carbondale. The new building will include a flexible worship space and 9 to 12 income-based housing units to serve the town’s growing needs. It will feature modern tech infrastructure, no fixed pews, and an adaptable layout allowing seamless indoor/outdoor use. As Rev. Rebecca puts it, “They are designing the church for the community instead of for themselves.”

Thanks to A Table for All, this work is not only financially possible but also spiritually supported. The flexibility of the grant program allowed the church to enter the initiative mid-process, building on a vision already underway. Trainings led by Rev. Stephanie Moffitt, helped deepen relationships, spark rich conversations among longtime members, and create space for honest dreaming. One participant described the experience as “inspiring and encouraging, even after knowing each other for 40 years.”

A Community-First Future

The future of Carbondale CUMC is intentionally open-ended. Rather than predetermining its goals for worship attendance or programs, the church is focusing on being available and responsive to its neighbors. Whether it’s hosting Pride events, engaging in justice work, or opening its doors for a community gathering, Carbondale CUMC is stepping fully into its role as a partner and servant in the broader Roaring Fork Valley.

Their story is a testament to what can happen when a church embraces possibility instead of scarcity. As Rev. Rebecca reflects, “If you can step outside of fear and look at what you have—your people, your building, your relationships—you can start visioning from a place of abundance. That’s where transformation begins.” 

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For Carbondale Community UMC, the future is a blank canvas—designed not for themselves but for the community they serve. As they prepare to build a new church, their hope is to create a place where everyone feels a sense of belonging, purpose, and home.

A Table for All

A Table for All, led by Bishop Kristin Stoneking, strengthens congregations across the Mountain Sky Conference to ensure every child of God finds a loving, inclusive community. Inspired by retired Bishop Karen Oliveto’s legacy, it has helped 12 churches grow and thrive, sparking broader vitality efforts across the Conference. This vital work continues thanks to generous donors who support both their local churches and our shared mission. Join us in building an endowment to sustain this transformative ministry.