This year is very unusual because we are doing two different financial campaigns, one right after the other.

The first, now nearly complete, is a capital funds drive “Together For Tomorrow.” It addresses needs in our building and property, and needs in ministry beyond our building, beyond our congregation. The second, our own program to raise income for our operating budget, “Giving, Growing, Belonging” reflects a similar balance. Contained in our budget are the purely practical needs, and programmatic funds that directly pay for our mission and ministry.

The truth is that in order to be in ministry our more ‘practical’ expenses are necessary. They support what we do. And if we don’t engage in ministry, then our practical expenses become meaningless.

I have been moved by the generosity you have demonstrated when presented with ‘Together for Tomorrow.’ Now as we move into thinking about our operating budget, I am encouraged before we begin. I believe we have resources we will need and hope that at the end of March, when we conclude this program, we will be able to say that we have what we need for our 2006-2007 budget. We can move ahead, using our energy to engage in mission and ministry. We can pray and sing and work and play together in the love of Christ.

Yours in the love of Christ,
Barbara