A Smattering of Thoughts on Various SubjectsAdvent/Christmas: I've already expressed myself elsewhere in this issue, except to wish all of you a thoughtful Advent and joyous Christmas.
Yearend Giving: Please take the notice elsewhere in this issue seriously. Some of us may be unable to respond to the need; others are capable of helping wipe out what now appears to be a year of deficit spending. If it is, it will be the first since our year of organization.
Capital Stewardship Campaign: You will receive a more official and complete report. As of November 17, the total of estimates is $662,000—quite a remarkable achievement. Please understand that the campaign is not over. If, somehow, you have not had an opportunity to respond, there are envelopes in the hymn racks with both Campaign and 2003 Operating Budget estimate cards. Estimates are more than welcome. Also please consider the church's Building Fund as a recipient for real property donations, bequests and deferred giving. Consult your tax advisor or LHPC member, Glen McCleskey, CPA.
Building Program: As of this writing, the Property Development Committee and architect Jim Wilson are completing plans for our renovation and expansion program. Bids should be let early next year. You have checked out the artist's rendering at the ARC, haven't you? Or go to Plans & Elevations section for updates.
Programming and Ministry: We will not operate upon the assumption that "if we build it, they will come." Some will come out of curiosity but not stay. What we offer both in programming and in opportunities to serve will determine whether they stay. More importantly, it will determine how well we live out our mission to "Go...and Make Disciples." Have an idea for a program, activity or ministry? Share it! The worst thing you can do is to "sit on it."
-- Robert E Shelton