Exploratory conversations about merger with both Faith Presbyterian Church and Grace Presbyterian Church. Our Session felt that neither church was the right fit for Bethany. We are now talking about other options. We are praying that the Holy Spirit will guide us toward a unified vision, and that we’ll have the faith to act upon it.
With our future being uncertain, there was some debate as to whether or not we should hold our annual stewardship campaign. But we soon came to the conclusion that no matter where we find ourselves as a church or as individual believers, we have been called to be stewards of God’s creation. Therefore, the call to commit our time, talent and treasure to help build the kingdom of God here on Earth remains unchanged. In fact, the argument can be made that now, more than ever, is the time when we need bold faith and generosity to construct a bold new vision of the Church.
We ask that you prayerfully consider what gifts you have to share with our Bethany community even in the midst of our undefined future. Now is the time for our community to take a long look in the mirror and reflect about who we are and what gifts we will bring to the table today. Knowing what resources we have to share is key to determining our vision for the future as a church. Pledging financial support to Bethany is helpful to the Session in preparing an operating budget for 2024.
About the 2024 giving campaign and how you can participate
The good news is that God’s providence and provision for us and the world remains unchanged. Despite many ups and downs in the world, do we not remain richly blessed? 1 Peter 4:10 declares, “Based on the gift each one has received, use it to serve others, as food managers of the varied grace of God.” Our call is clear—may we continue to strive to be good stewards of all that we have been blessed with.
We ask your prayers for our congregation and its leadership during this time of great change. Everyone is encouraged to bring their pledges to worship on Sunday, November 19—Pledge Sunday—where they will be consecrated. You can turn in your pledges to the office, as well. We thank you for your gifts, and we stand firm together on Christ, our Rock!
In Christ,
Rev. Jesse B. Larson
