The resource assessment focus groups led by our consultant Pastor David Misenheimer indicates that the people of Hope are ready to support and commit to a new 3 year campaign that should be able to raise $1.3 to $1.6 million or more in 2011-2013! In response, “Blessed to be a Blessing” has adopted the following giving goals:
Remember, this is a three year campaign, over and above our regular giving, motivated by joyous response to God’s blessings in our lives.
When does all this happen?
Campaign Kick-off Weekend: Saturday & Sunday, October 9 & 10
Neighborhood Block Party Celebrations: October 15-17, October 22-24, October 29-31, and November 5-7
Campaign Commitment Weekend: Saturday & Sunday, November 13 & 14
What is “Blessed to be a Blessing” all about? Genesis 12: 3 says: “I will bless those who bless you…and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” We have been blessed as congregation-time and time again! We are charged by the Word of God to be a blessing to others. We need to continue to “pay the blessing forward” by expanding our ministry so others can come to know the amazing gift of grace through Jesus Christ.
What is the motivation behind this campaign so soon after “Building Hope for Years to Come?” Hope has been blessed over the years and the “Building Hope for years to Come” campaign was an important step in fulfilling the congregation’s goal of “expanded facilities ablaze with ministry activities!” But we can’t stop now that the new sanctuary and expanded ministry facilities are here. The primary challenges and opportunities are to:
Continue effective ministry and provide expanded staff to reach out to the new people that will be attracted by our new facilities, insuring that every person who connects to Hope can grow in faith and service.
Provide adequate financial resources that will enable Hope to begin payment on the new construction and bridge loans of $5,680,000 which adds $29,587 per month to our mortgage and interest payments beginning in January 2011
Complete unfinished “Building Hope” projects and provide furnishings and equipment that will enhance our children, youth, music, and adult education ministries.
Model first fruit giving by designating gifts to support local, national and international mission projects.
Is this really possible, to expect to raise the same level of funding we received in the “Building Hope” campaign? Yes, you have already expressed your support for a new campaign and Hope is blessed with on-going growth in membership and regular giving. God has blessed us and if each of Hope’s current 500 families pledged $21 per week or $3 per day to the “Blessed to be a Blessing” campaign in 2011-2013 we would reach the Challenge Goal of $1,600,000! Obviously, some are blessed to give more and the potential for growth in giving is very encouraging. We can only give from what God has provided, but when the Lord blesses us, we are called to first-fruit, joyous and generous giving.
Can you tell me more about the Giving Goals? Yes, here is what your gifts will enable Hope to accomplish in 2011-2013:
Each of the giving goals will provide at least $355,044 each year towards payment of the new $5,680,000 construction and bridge loans. This will be the first priority as the congregation assumes responsibility for making regular mortgage and interest payments. ($1,065,132)
Provides funds to be designated over the three years to fund new ministries and staff, complete unfinished “Building Hope” projects and support new local, national and international mission projects and fund the campaign program expenses ($234,868). Some initial priorities include:
On-going staff funding for the Parish Administrator, Facilities Manager and Ministry Projects Coordinator
Providing resources for equipment and furnishings to enhance Adult Education, Children and Youth Ministries and support of the Specific Ministry Pastoral Training program at Hope
When the Challenge and Growth Goal levels are reached, the congregation will be able to consider moving forward with:
Calling a Full-time Minister of Worship & Music
Construction of the Youth Center Outdoor Basketball Court
Repayment of the Bridge Loan principle
Improving media, security and other audio visual capabilities
Where did these goals and plans come from? Quite frankly…you! The congregation was invited to attend Vision Huddles back in July and complete the online survey. The people of Hope spoke and expressed your desire that we build upon our strengths (Small group ministry, Pastoral leadership, Youth & Children’s Ministry, Outreach, and Worship) as well address areas of opportunity. (Financial, Limited Staff, Volunteers, Keeping the Small church “feel.”)
How much am I expected to pledge? Every gift is received with thanks. We cannot tell you what to pledge. That should be a prayerful conversation with God and your family members as you consider His blessings. We do know that responsible stewardship of time, talent and treasure is so important in our walk with Christ. Each of us “needs to give” as an expression of our love for the Lord and to honor Him!
What if I need more information before I decide to make my pledge? You will be provided with on-going written and visual communication about the “Blessed to be a Blessing” campaign. We are excited about the “Neighborhood Block Parties” that will be held , providing a personal opportunity for you to experience great fellowship and food, meet other members who live in your area and provide you with inspirational and helpful information from Campaign Leadership Team members who stand ready to answer any question you may have.
How can I help as a member and participant at Hope Lutheran Church? Discuss with your friends and family members how Hope has been a blessing to you since being here. Meditate on how can you be a blessing to others at this important time in the life of our congregation and help secure its place as a beacon of light for Christ in our church and community.
When does all this happen? The leadership giving phase is underway so if you would like to step forward with a leadership gift or pledge, inspiring others to participate in “Blessed to be a Blessing” please do so!
The special events that will be held in October and November are:
Campaign Kick-off Weekend: Saturday & Sunday, October 9 & 10
Neighborhood Block Party Celebrations: October 15-17, October 22-24, October 29-31, and November 5-7
Campaign Commitment Weekend: Saturday & Sunday, November 13 & 14
It’s going to be a special time in the life of Hope as we celebrate God’s blessings and return our annual pledges for the 2011 Ministry Year and our commitments for the 2011-2-13 “Blessed to be a Blessing” campaign.
