Being part of a warm and inclusive church is a way that we can find respite and gentle peace in the midst of challenging times. This alone is a practice of hope and resistance.
We are asking you to consider your financial commitment for 2026. We are mindful that the current federal government shutdown and the furloughing of federal employees impacts the financial health of our community. If you are unaffected by the shutdown, we encourage you to give generously. If you are facing economic anxiety and uncertainty, please do not feel pressured or judged to give in ways that would jeopardize you or your family’s financial wellbeing. There are many ways to give including your prayers, your presence, your service, your witness.
Your financial support allows us to do things like gather in worship, teach children about God’s love, provide our youth a safe place to grow and service, serve our neighbors who are in need, and be a reminder that a church community can be a place of wide welcome and deep belong, of connection across generations.
In the past year, we have packed 12,000 meals for Rise Against Hunger, served fresh food to hundreds of our neighbors through Community Assistance. We have celebrated holidays and hosted funerals, we have learned scripture, theology, and music, we have shared meals, we have attended protests, we have made art, we have watched our children grow and deepen their faith, we have read and studied books, we have held each other in love and prayer. We are able to be who we are and do what we do because of your generous financial support.
Why church? When we are tempted to escape into doomscrolling onto our phones, the church offers us a place to pray, sing, and serve together. When we feel isolated and lonely, the church offers us community and belonging.
Why church? Because of the joy of listening to our children sing. Because of the opportunity to sit in a holy space and listen to the postlude on the organ. Because of the big, fat donuts in The Way.
Because it grounds us in gratitude which is a good and rightful thing always
With warm thanks,
- Pastor Sara Keeling
