Dear One's of St. C's

I am overjoyed to let you all know that we currently have received 49 pledges for a total $231,376. We have surpassed our reach goal and have received $23,376 more in pledges then we did last year.  We are still hoping to receive 6 more pledges for 2025.

In 2024 I decided not to stress or focus on finances (much) and instead focus on how we as a church community were connecting to God, one another, and taking care of our neighbors.  And you all just blew me away with all the ways I saw you do this.  I am even more convinced going into 2025 that this is exactly how we are going to build this church and close our deficit. 

Last year we did one fundraiser to raise money for our friend, Jermaine.  Not only was it a very successful fundraiser it was a lovely time of connection and good food.  The BC is planning a similar fundraiser in the spring and fall to work on closing our deficit.  The BC and myself are hopeful that these events will raise money AND bring our community closer together.  While, everything we could see to cut in order to balance the budget, we felt would put strain on our community, which is everything we are trying to avoid.  You all give so much to this place, and we want you to continue to give out of gratitude with joyful hearts, not exhaustion and resentment. 

As we discussed with Dwight this fall, right now people are wondering what place church has in society, and I believe you all, St. Columba's, answers this question beautifully.  People want to know God and find they are loved and healed and I believe this church is fertile ground to do this. I am just overwhelmed with gratitude for all the ways as individuals and a community I experience the Kingdom of God here.  

We are moving in the right direction to get me back to full time and to having a balanced budget.  We still have $125,000 in our rainy day fund.  Our treasurer, Pam put together a wonderful presentation on the budget.  If you would like to see the powerpoint or the draft budget please let me know. 

If you are still planning to pledge you can fill out a pledge card  by clicking this link or put it in the offertory this Sunday.  The BC will approve the budget on Sunday, Dec. 15th.

If you would like to see a copy of the draft budget email Meghan @ vicar@st.columbakent.org.

with much gratitude, 

Meghan