Dear St. James’ Parish Family,
As the days grow cooler and the world around us ripens in color, it is time once again to come together to plan for the life of our community as we plan our budget for 2017.
Our theme this year is Giving Back, Giving Forward. There are many reasons we give of our time and money at St. James’. We give back for all we’ve received from this community, and we give forward for all those who will grow in the wisdom and grace of Christ through this community in the years to come.
I invite you to spend time with the enclosed stewardship materials. They will provide you with an understanding of how our resources are used, and what we need in the coming year to put us in the place of greatest strength. Our stewardship goal to make our anticipated 2017 budget is $200,000 – a 5% increase over our goal from last year. The reason for this increase is both an expansion in programming and the need for strategic financial planning.
Next year is a momentous year for us, as it will mark the 10th anniversary of moving to our campus here on North Main Street, and specifically our amazing building. We will celebrate and mark this milestone, even as we recognize the need to plan now for anticipated costs for the long term maintenance of our building.
This is the season to thoughtfully and prayerfully reflect on the ways you will give back to give forward. I invite you to consider making a pledge for the first time, or make an increase from your 2016 pledge. Looking ahead, please plan to celebrate and continue the Eucharistic feast at our Parish Pot Luck after the 1 0: 30 am service on October 30th.
In closing, please mark your calendars and join us on All Saints Sunday, November 6th when, at both services, we will bring pledge cards to the altar in thanksgiving for all we have been given and all that we may become. We give, knowing that our gifts gathered together, become something greater than they are alone.
The human mind plans the way,
but the Lord directs the steps.
~ Proverbs 16:9
Yours in God’s peace,
Kristin+