This Week from Mitch
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
This Sunday, we celebrate a long-standing tradition of St. Martin's with our annual Jazz Mass. It's a day of festive music, fun, and joy. It's a day I have come to love very much. After the service, we will have a second celebration as we will celebrate our Stewardship Kick-off with a potluck lunch. St. Martin's will supply the main course; please, if you can bring a side to share. I think I am going to make a Hawaiian-style macaroni. It will be fun! Come hear from our parish's leadership and celebrate the ministry we have done together.
I say celebrate, because while we will be asking for money, I believe deep in my heart that St. Martin's is worthy of your pledge and your giving. We are a church where all are welcome, and in the spirit of holiness, we have beautiful worship. We are a church that gives away literal tons of food each year, a place where we support refugees among us, a place where we truly strive to be the hands and feet of Christ in the world. Being a place like this comes with a cost. That cost is where pledging comes in.
If you are new to the church or pledging, a pledge is a commitment to make a monetary gift to your church over the course of the year. Your pledges help us create a budget, do ministry in the world, cover expenses, and pay salaries. From SnoBall Sundays to Safe Space Dinners, your giving funds it all. If you have never pledged, please do so this year. Your giving is needed and part of what it means to be a part of the community. If you have pledged in the past, please consider renewing it. If you and your family can, please pray about making an increase. I know it is a sacrifice, but I believe the sacrifice is worth it, which is why Denise and I will be increasing our pledge. St. Martin's can not afford to slow down in its ministries. I believe our community needs them. We need them.
Pledge cards will be in the bulletins starting this Sunday, and a mailing containing a pledge card will go out this coming week. I am excited for what is to come as we enter this stewardship season at St. Martin's.
In Christ,
Mitch