2020 Stewardship Campaign

Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another
with whatever gift each of you has received. – 1 Peter 4:10

Oct. 11, 2020

This year has reminded us in so many ways of the strength and closeness of our community. Even in the months in which we were physically distant and unable to gather in person, the Spirit kept us together, connecting us. Many in the media or in our society kept referring to our churches as “closed,” but we were never closed — we continued following the Gospel call to live in love with our neighbors, finding ever new ways to seek and serve Christ in all people. 

I want to share a story about a particular moment this year in which our generosity of spirit and strength was clear. In the beginning of this pandemic we were all asked to isolate at home for 14 days. Not too horrible, but the 14 days kept growing. Having a lung disease, I felt very vulnerable and alone. Before I knew it, or needed anything, my brother and daughter did all my food shopping and errands before I could even ask. I learned I was never alone. I spent many a day with my church directory calling people so they knew they were never alone either.

This is one of many stories that speak to the love we bear for each other and the world around us.

As we look to the year to come, we are more committed than ever to the ministry and love we share with our community and our neighbors. Our ministry is funded through the gifts of its members — your generous offerings given in grace and love. This year we are asking for every member to take part in our stewardship campaign by making a pledge. Included with this letter are materials for making your gift and learning more about opportunities to get involved and participate in our congregation. 

We will be hearing messages of Faith-Filled Generosity as we move through the weeks of this year’s stewardship season. The Gospel is rich with examples of how our faith kindles our love for each other and our Christian responsibility to share our love with the world. I invite you and your household to pray and learn, taking these weeks to consider how your generous response to God’s call has been shaped by this community and the friends who gather with you. Thank you for being a part of St. James' and for your faithful, faith-filled gift to our annual campaign.

In the spirit of generosity and love,

Pam Hallow

Senior Warden