We are well into our 2021 stewardship campaign for 2022 pledges. Thank you to all of you who have made your commitments. I am happy to say that many of you have increased your pledges and for that I and your council are truly grateful.

We have recorded commitments of over $640,000 which puts us well over half way to the $1 million pledge amount we need to comfortably sustain our operations for the coming year. For those of you who have yet to pledge either by pledge card, through the website or by text, I urge you to do so within the next week. It is important for our  budget planning purposes. This year more than ever we need to be able to ascertain before the end of the year what our expected revenues will be 2022. Decisions need to be made that affect program utilization including music, live stream  programming, and community engagement.

As you know many of the current financial commitments (new staffing and live stream production) were made before the pandemic struck in 2020. They have proved to be wise investments as we have grown membership and reach out to over 500 worshipers every Sunday. But they come at a cost and we need your support to insure that our message and outreach continue.  

I would especially like to ask all our new members to consider making a commitment. We are gratified that you have joined us . You are the future of Saint Mark’s and your financial  support can help your new spiritual home continue to provide you with the nourishment of the soul that you sought when you entered our doors.

Finally, I know many of you ( as I am ) are frustrated with the slow return to normal activity at the Cathedral and we are all more anxious about it as we near the holidays. But while many us reluctantly watch from afar on the website or Facebook, much of the same day to day activities of your Cathedral continue. It is important for us to be there for you when your personal and spiritual needs require and demand it.

As we move through these final few weeks of 2021 and hopefully the final thrust of the pandemic, and as you consider your financial support of Saint Mark’s, I ask you to take some time to reflect on what Saint Mark’s means to you, how important it is not only to you but to others in the Cathedral, and to also thank God for the many blessings bestowed on all of us.

God’s Peace to you all.

Paul E. Lakeman

Senior Warden