I am leaving last week’s article intact below for those who might have missed it. Giving statements are now available on the table across from the office. Please pick yours up. Blessings.
Fr. Tom
As we head into Fall, we begin to reflect on the ending of one year and the beginning of another. As Priest and Vestry, we seek to be stewards of the resources that God has entrusted to us. It is with this in mind then, that we turn to the matter of our budget for the year 2024.
While we have been blessed historically with generous endowments from the faithful who have gone before us, we as a church are called to “pay our way” as an act of worship to God and as a support of the ministry to one another and beyond. We are called to do this with our time, individual spiritual gifts, and the money that we earn.
In the past few years, we have not been able to support our everyday expenses from “offering plate and pledged” monies, and, therefore, we have had to draw from other reserves. Churches do go through cycles, and with the pandemic, and the hiring of a new priest, changes in membership have occurred. Thus, as we grow, it will be important to encourage our newer members and attendees that their support of time and money truly does matter.
All that to say, I would ask everyone to consider making a “pledge” this year. A pledge does not mean that unforeseen circumstances obligate you, or that anyone is going to try to enforce anything on you. However, it is a statement of intent, and pledging is a way that you can encourage the leadership of your support and aid us as we seek to be as wise as possible in planning for the upcoming year. The symbolic starting point in giving of 10% of income is referenced in the Old Testament and has long been a point of emphasis among many Protestant and Catholic bodies.
During this next week and on the following Sunday, we will be making everyone’s giving statements available. Enclosed will also be a short letter from me and a pledge card. Will you prayerfully consider how God might want to use you to support His Church this year?
Upcoming Schedule
Adult Christian Ed Class Sunday, 9 AM. (No class on Nov 12th and 19th)
Choir Meet/Practice
Wednesdays, 4:30 PM, in the choir/organ loft
Father Tom will be gone this Sunday. We welcome our Canon of the Ordinary, Fr. Mark Evans as he celebrates and preaches for us.
Congregational Thanksgiving Celebration
Sunday, November 19th there will be only 1 Worship Service for all members, friends, and guests of St. Matthews, followed by the annual Thanksgiving potluck fellowship meal. Worship is at 10AM for everyone on the 19th, with set-up and meal shortly thereafter. If you have not had a chance to sign-up with a dish to share and the number of people planning to attend: there are still opportunities available! This Sunday, November 12 you can sign-up on the main hallway bulletin board, OR you are welcome to call the church office (309-662-4646) and Pat will add your information for you. Please come join in the feast of Thanksgiving!
Collecting Diapers
St.Mathew’s is holding a diaper drive for Heartland Headstart homebase families. They need sizes 2 – 5 as well as baby wipes. There will be a box for collection items in the Parish hall. The drive starts this Sunday, November 5th and ends November 18th. Contact Patty Pitts with any questions.
Christmas Flowers
Poinsettias to decorate the Sanctuary for Christmas need to be ordered very soon. If you want to order plants, the cost is $20 each and order sheets are available near both entrances to the Sanctuary. Please complete the forms and let us know no later than the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.