We will with God's help. This phrase, or the singular 'I will with God's help' is scattered throughout our Book of Common Prayer. It is a wonderful reminder that all that we have and all that we do is a result of God's help.
Thursday morning we sorted through 100 bricks in preparation for their permanent encasement within the grounds of Saint John's. Each memorial brick is a result of your generosity and God's help; through the sale of these bricks we have been able to properly recognize and celebrate our 175th Anniversary. Thank you for making this, both the sale of the bricks and 175 years of ministry, possible; two events that have happened with God' help.
In a few weeks time the mail will bring you information about the ministries of Saint John's as well as some of our aspirations for the coming year. With God's help there is much that we can do. Our plans include a significant increase in our music program; some of this is needed maintenance on our instruments as well as much needed robes for our growing choir and bell ringers.
One of the results of increased activities within the parish is a needed increase in our Parish Life budget. We are projecting to more than double our Parish Life budget so that we can continue to offer fellowship opportunities at coffee hour and throughout the year.
A very visible change within Saint John's is the inclusion of the ministry of Mother Shivaun within our parish and school. It is important to support the formation of disciples of all ages and her presence and knowledge is invaluable; providing the opportunity for Mother Shivaun to be a more permanent member of our staff as an Associate will secure our efforts to build our children and youth ministries.
These are some of the areas where we are focusing our efforts and our funds. All considered this calls for a 7.5% increase in our operating budget; this will take us from $412,000 to $443,000. We can, with God's help, make the 2018 budget a reality.
I believe that we are all called to ministry, and I believe that God equips those who are called. Our financial resources are just one way that this occurs. The people of Saint John's are the true treasure; I have the pleasure of working with a fine vestry, and we will soon be seeking members of Saint John's to stand for election to vestry. If you are asked to stand for election to the vestry I ask that you prayerfully consider the calling. When you receive the information about our 2018 Stewardship I ask that you prayerfully consider your commitment to God and Saint John's. There is much that we can do with God's help, and I look forward to the journey.
Peace,
Henry+
HOLY PLAY
