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May 12, 2022,

Dear church family,

As you have seen, your Skillman Elders are pursuing a structured, open and positive path forward to join with The Hills in a way that honors Skillman’s heritage, and provides the certainty of a bright future ahead.

In compliance with Skillman’s governing documents and Texas law, we are providing all Skillman members this official “Notice of Special Meeting of Members” (by email and U.S. Mail). This meeting to vote on The Hills opportunity will be immediately after worship services on Sunday, June 12, 2022. In the days ahead, we will again share the final list of members eligible to participate in the vote, which has not changed since it was shared following the Town Hall. All have had an opportunity to comment on that list. Detailed voting procedures, ballot wording and instructions for in-person voting on June 12 (and mail-in voting) will also be provided in the days ahead.

Here are a few of the positive statements we’ve received from Skillman members supporting The Hills opportunity:

• “We have been told by Jesus what our mission is as a church. Skillman needs an infusion of more young families and children, and a partner to reach the lost world around us. When we are met at the gates of Heaven, can we say we chose to hoard our buildings and bank accounts, or that we joined forces with a purposeful, Godly group that has a proven track record of seeking and saving the lost?” Ken and Linda Henry
• “We need to focus on saving souls, not saving Skillman.” Linda Cornutt
• “It is interesting to me that everyone on the ‘no’ side brings up the Skillman Assets. What are the assets for if not saving souls.  Let’s pull back the harsh rhetoric and accusations.”  Don Ridgway
• “The Hills are using their assets wisely for the expansion of the kingdom. Every Skillman member concern has been fairly and thoroughly considered and discussed in detail.” George and Diane Dishman
• “The Hills is committed to make us a vibrant growing church here in this building, teaching our community about Jesus, not renting the building for secular things! The elders have prayed for months for a decision, and they believe we should join The Hills. God's word tells us to listen to them.” Blaine and Susie Armstrong

Alternatives have been put forth by some members.  Our further thoughts on proposed alternatives will be provided soon, along with all of the written statements we’ve received, both for and against The Hills opportunity. In the final analysis, it comes down to this:

A “Yes” vote to join The Hills is a vote for:

• Filling our buildings with worshippers of Jesus, including an improved a cappella service.
• Skillman members to remain engaged in shepherding, ministry and missions leadership.
• Continued support for all of our current missionaries and expanded mission efforts.
• New ministries to our adults, youth and kids, including support services for parents, for marriages, for recovery, and for those with special needs.
• Protection of the Moeller and Johnson funds for missions, elderly and youth.
• Continued use of our buildings as a church of Christ, with no sale to another church or secular group.
• Expanded, full-time ministry and administrative staffing in our building.
• Guarantee of continued employment or 9-month severance for all current church staff.
• Full support, stable staffing, safety and growth for our Child Development Center.
• A legal process that ensures all of these Assurances from The Hills will be met, and
• Celebration of Skillman’s heritage.

We are staying in prayer, responding to your questions and concerns, and providing information you can rely upon to be truthful and accurate.

In His service,

Craig, Shane and David