“The Happiest Place on Earth” — a tagline created by Disney when Disneyland opened in 1955 — was registered as Disney’s trademark in 1999. To this day, The Walt Disney Company continues to pursue its mission of bringing happiness to the world through storytelling, technology, and exceptional guest experiences.

I like to believe that Disney’s trademark is deeply embedded in the hearts and minds of every Disney employee and leader. They live and breathe that commitment in every corner of Disney’s world.

Most of you knew that I spent my birthday in Orlando, Florida, and visited Disney Springs. I got myself a birthday button—a souvenir pin with my name and the year (2026). A friendly Disney staff member encouraged me to wear it, so I did. And that’s when my “Happiest Place on Earth” experience truly began!

Everywhere I went, Disney staff greeted me by name. From bus drivers to boat captains, everyone wore genuine smiles. Even fellow visitors joined in. The highlight came while I was enjoying nachos at the Animation Resort Food Court. The manager stopped by briefly, then returned with a group of staff who surprised me with cupcakes and a birthday song!

Later, Daisy (not Donald Duck’s girlfriend!) and her family treated me to dinner at Planet Hollywood, where my birthday greeting appeared on the big screen alongside Mirabel from Encanto. We ended the evening watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks from across the river at the Polynesian Resort. It truly was “the happiest place on earth.”

As I looked around, I wondered—what if everyone chose to make others feel as special as Disney’s people do? What if the spirit that defines Disney also inspired our churches? Imagine this: Bethel Wesley UMC—The Happiest Church on Earth.

I believe that’s biblical. In John 13:35, Jesus said, “If you have love for one another, then everyone will know that you are my disciples.” That is our true trademark—Jesus’ disciples, loving one another. As United Methodists, we now carry a new vision: Love boldly. Serve joyfully. Lead courageously.  If we can live out our trademark with the same passion and intentionality as Disney’s staff live theirs, then every place we go can become the happiest place on earth.