The Heritage Campaign kicked off the Christ Church million dollar capital campaign with a festive brunch on Sunday, October 7. Twenty-eight homemade quiche and 5 gallons of fresh fruit later, over 100 people watched the inspiring 15 minute DVD produced by Jay Mueller for the campaign. We watched generations of Christ Church faithful on the big screen, and we paused to think of the gift those nine founding families gave us all.
The campaign, as of early October, has reached the two-thirds point, with $660,237 in pledges from thirty-three donors so far! This is a fantastic start. This includes gifts ranging from one hundred dollars to one hundred thousand dollars. Each gift is from the heart. Each gift is important. Each gift is appreciated.
As you consider your financial gifts to the church at this time, you are encouraged to think of a few simple points. First, your operating pledge must come first. Our day to day needs, including two full-time clergy, strong music, youth and Sunday School programs, and office support for all our needs must be paid for, day in and day out. This requires the commitment of every parishioner to make as generous a stewardship pledge as possible.
That said, every family reaches the point that they have to find the money for some not-so-exciting but vitally important home improvements. At home, who wants to fix the basement pipes or the leaking shower? But sometimes, there is no choice. Likewise, our beautiful but aging church building has reached that point. For Christ Church to continue to seek and serve Christ for the next generations, it is imperative that we replace the roof, replace the leaking windows, update the kitchen, install a fire detection system and complete renovations of bathrooms. And we all need to share in that expense.
We hope to announce on the Sunday of the 2008 annual meeting that we have met both of $500,000 stewardship goal and our million dollar capital goal, which may be paid over three years. To meet that lofty target, we need your gifts.
Please consider what Christ Church has given you and your family over the years. The baptism of your children or grandchildren? Their confirmations, weddings, or a starring role in the Christmas pageant? The place where you come to talk to God whenever you wish? The first place you turn in time of illness, sorrow or need? The place where you worship among your family and friends every week, every month, once a year? The place that is always there for you, greeting you with God’s love, absolutely positively no matter what? That’s a pretty valuable place, isn’t it?
Stewardship and Heritage pledges may be submitted to the office or put in the collection plate. If you would like to speak with anyone regarding your gift, please contact Bob Staeck, who will ask someone to give you a call. Thank you for being part of the Christ Church family and for all the gifts you give.