 |
3911 Sweet Air Road Phoenix, Maryland 21131 410-592-6565 |
Discover St. John's |
FAITH & HOPE CAMPAIGN: “I always thank God for you” April 6, 2010 Dear People of God at St. John’s, A leader of the Church once said about his congregation that “I always thank God for you”. I can say the same about you, the people of St. John’s. Your giving of time and ministry, service and offerings, acts of caring and worship and prayer are so great here at St. John’s Lutheran Church! I am often overwhelmed by all the people who serve in Christ’s name so consistently, without receiving acknowledgment or glory. That leader went on to say, “you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly await our Lord Jesus Christ… He will keep you strong to the end.” Paul actually said these words to the Corinthians (1: 4, 7-8). And I see them fulfilled here today among the people of St. John’s Sweet Air! Now we begin a construction project to enable more and more people to come to St. John’s and feel welcome, and then grow in relationship with Jesus. Our building addition is ready to go. Summer is a good time to accomplish it. We have very successfully completed our first capital funds campaign. And now begins the second: “The Faith & Hope Campaign”. We are all being asked to pray and consider how we can support this campaign. Most of us will consider a financial pledge to this three year campaign. I encourage you to do so; my wife, Linda, and I have talked this over prayerfully and our commitment (pledge) will be higher than the last one. Please consider making a single one time gift, a major gift, a weekly or monthly gift over the three years, or giving stock or other securities. We need all sorts of gifts to make this campaign a success. Our mentors in this process believe we can reach another goal like the first one, nearly $1 Million (in this three year campaign). Some feel we can even surpass that goal. I believe it is a matter of faith and we have the capacity to do great things. Yet I know that not everyone is in a position to make such a gift over and above one’s regular giving now. In our survey last August over 90% of us said we were committed to keeping up our regular giving which sustains the daily ebb and flow of life, ministry and mission at St. John’s. If that is what you can do, do it with thanksgiving to God. Every gift is precious in his sight! I invite everyone to come to worship on April 18th, “Commitment Sunday”, and place your pledge card in the special offering of pledges in worship. Your Pledge will be dedicated to the work of Christ Jesus in and through this place. Your support, your prayers, your service, your giving are a part of this family of God and our shared mission. Thanks be to God for each and every one of you. In Christ’s service, Rev. David R. Asplin Senior Pastor
Welcome all, Tell the story, Grow as disciples! |