“A Quiet Disciple is a person whose personal ministry is usually accomplished by their special gifts and service in a quiet, unassuming manner. The influence of his/her presence is a gift and an example that enriches their church, community and beyond.”

The people of Community United Methodist Church are honored to recognize Howard Herdman, a strong advocate for those in need both locally and throughout God’s kingdom, as our Quiet Disciple.

CUMC supports several missionaries in different countries.  As head of the Missions Committee, Howard arranges to have them travel to Huntington Beach to share their mission experiences with us.  He and his wife, Kathie, graciously host them in their home during their stay.

He coordinates our involvement in Heifer Project International, including arranging to have animals on campus for the children (and adults) to see and pet.  For anyone not familiar with Heifer Project, their mission is to work with communities to end world hunger and poverty and to care for the Earth. 

He regularly attends community and city council meetings that address the needs of the homeless and helps to initiate and to implement programs.  He coordinates our shower ministry and the Self-Help Interfaith Services (SHIP) visits at CUMC.  He also works closely with the “Compassionate, faith-based service to all in need” program that is Beach Cities Interfaith Services (BCIS).

Howard and Kathie are quick to visit ailing congregants and to help them in any way they can.

For some, perhaps his most important ministry is to make sure the coffee is ready on Sunday mornings.  There are, no doubt, other ways he serves that fly under the radar…but he is, after all, a QUIET Disciple.

Howard Herdman exemplifies the true definition of a Quiet Disciple and we are blessed have him a member of our congregation.