It is so encouraging to receive reports or hear of and observe the ways in which this Body of believers is continuing what was started with our Church “Out!” and Christmas “Service” efforts. To have you share how God is leading you into various connections, or how you are more attune to the service opportunities around you, is exciting. Whether it’s our drama team going to local care centers, or those who are connecting with area schools, or some who are stepping out to help with local shelters like TheFather’s Heart, or the upcoming Compassion North Clackamas on April 24, may we continue to be more intentional in our one-on-one ministry out in our community and grow into a deeper understanding of our calling to “make disciples” as we go into all the world!
A second encouragement I have is to know how we as a church are doing financially in the midst of this ongoing recession. Since this economy affects so many of us, whether retired, still working, or in an uncertain employment situation, we know these times have put a great strain on all of us financially and emotionally. The good news is that in spite of these pressures our attendance is only down 5% from a year ago, and our giving only down 3%! Consequently those in leadership of our various ministries greatly appreciate the ongoing support for our programs, and they are doubly careful in their spending, honoring the trust of your stewardship, and putting their trust for ministry in our God who always provides what is needed for His work.
That leads to the area of our building loan. Currently we only have pledges to cover one half of the current monthly loan payment of $10,000+. The other half comes from unpledged donations or the general budget if needed (which hurts our ministries). Again we are grateful for the continued faithfulness of this congregation towards this obligation. But we are in a situation where we cannot maintain the status quo on our loan or this will become an ever increasing burden for us to carry. To this end the Elders have appointed Chris Waud to head up a task force to look into our current situation, and make plans for dealing with how to both make our payments and reduce our indebtedness. Pray for this team as they take on this effort.
Another of our programs that needs prayer is our Children’s Ministry. Right now we don’t have a lot of children in Sunday School or Children’s Worship, but our teachers are doing a great job. Our Friend’s Club is reaching out to many in the neighborhood, so that is a blessing. Next time you see one of our teachers or helpers, give them a word of encouragement and ask them how you can pray for them. Who can you invite or bring to be a part of our children’s program?
Finally, Easter is in just a month – April 4. This will be the culmination of our current sermon series, Road to Jerusalem, where we will explore the significance of the 3 crosses, 2 basins, and 1 empty tomb. We will also be blessed by the adult choir directed by Ruth Mackey. Service times will be our regular schedule of 8:00 and 10:45 a.m. (there will not be a 6:30 p.m. service). We will have a time of fellowship and refreshments during the Sunday School hour (with all classes being cancelled). Plan now to bring your family and friends to celebrate the risen Lord with us on Resurrection Sunday!
