CHURCH
What comes to mind when you hear the word, “church”?
When I was a child, I’d think of the Catholic church building where I attended Mass. Years later, with the benefit of theology courses at St. Thomas, I learned the word church could refer to more than a building.
Indeed, church can refer to an institution or to a community, among other possibilities. How we refer to church—how we think about church—influences our planning, budgeting and ministries.
When I think of our church as a community, I tend to think of people’s names and faces. I offer support to other people, and I feel supported. I don’t think about money.
When I think of our church as an institution, I think of an organization that spans millennia and the world. It was here before me; it will be here after me. I think about money, budgets, and facilities.
At our local level, we’re working to assure our branch—St. Matt’s—can continue to minister to our community. That takes resources: time, talent and treasure.
As Lent begins this week, take a look at the video on our website. Use the video to review our history. See how you can help St. Matt’s sustain its ministries into the future. If we all do something, we can meet our challenges.
CAPITAL CONTRIBUTION METHODS
As part of our Lenten fundraising effort, we’re using DonorBox to support our #1 project this year: replacing the old electric panel in the church. It’s designed to make it easy to give. It’s also time-limited, ending at Easter.
The monthly Capital Needs envelopes are another contribution method. They’re in the bi-monthly envelope packets and at the back of the church.
We’ve used EFTs (Electronic Funds Transfers) for years, primarily for operational needs. We’re also starting to use that method for Capital Needs. Indeed, someone recently made my day when he switched from PayPal to EFT. In the EFT system, you can designate a portion for Capital Needs or Community of Saints, in addition to regular contributions. (Fees for EFTs are less than for PayPal.) Call or email me for more information.
Thank you for your support, and have a great week!
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