Grace and peace to you!
I write with heightened appreciation. In just three days of starting our Sowing Seeds Stewardship Campaign, I am delighted to report that we have gathered 25% of our goal of $538,000. The word that pops into my mind is “WOW!”
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Not only have folks turned in their pledge cards but a large portion of them have made an increase. Such an early and positive response sends a powerful message that folks are appreciative of what we are doing together in Jesus’s name, understand that costs have increased, want to support the continuation and growth of ministry. Thank you to all who have turned in their 2022 pledges.
25% in three days, generates excitement and encourages; it is a sign of the vitality of our ministry amid the many challenges the pandemic puts on us.
So far, SO GOOD!
As appreciation fills my spirit, I am reminded that we still have a ways to go. 75% remains before we can move forward with our plans for 2022. There is much that the Spirit of God is calling us to do as we build and deepen loving relationships with God, each other, and our neighbors: Worship (online and in-person,) Faith Formation (for all ages, including our thriving Faith Teams for adults,) Pastoral Care (responding 24/7 walking through life’s sorrows and joys,) and supporting local and global partners meeting a variety of needs. Not only do we need to nurture these ministries so that they continue to grow but we also want to plant additional seeds that will expand our service into the community and connection among young families.
With so much to do, we need everyone’s response. Confident that we can meet the challenge if we work together, I invite those who have yet to turn in their pledges to do so by Sunday January 23. On Tuesday, January 25, the Council will meet to finalize our 2022 Mission Budget, which the congregation will vote upon at the Annual Meeting on Sunday January 30. Having all our pledges in at that point gives the Council needed information in its decision making.
If you want more information about the plans for 2022, have stewardship questions, or would like to make your pledge today online: click here.
I realize that gifts come in various amounts and that some are at a place where they can increase while others can not. Everyone must prayerfully consider what works given their own situation. That said, I also know that God has richly blessed this community with all the resources that it needs to do the work that the Spirit calls us to do. Everyone’s contribution is needed and together we have what we need.
As we gather gifts, I look forward to waving to you in worship whether online or in-person.
In Christ’s Light,
Pastor Walt