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Dear Ascension family,
Thank you to everyone who has already made a pledge for 2027. So far, we have received 25 pledges totaling $226,800, bringing us very near our target $250,000 pledge base (the pledge income we need to break even, not including our other sources of income). We are grateful not only for those who have increased their giving, but also for those who have joined our pledging community for the first time! If you missed my presentation at our Stewardship Campaign Celebration, you can read it here.
Beginning in November, I will be serving at Ascension three days a week, in addition to three to four Sundays each month. We had originally anticipated making this transition later, but through prayer, conversation, and discernment, it became clear that now is the right time. I am deeply grateful for your commitment to this parish and for the opportunity to serve alongside you for the sake of renewal at Ascension.
Our stewardship theme this year has been Our Church, Our Home. We all know that the Church is not simply somewhere we go. Through Christ, we are joined to one another as members of his Body and called to share in his mission. Part of that calling is offering what we have, trusting that Christ will use it for the sake of His Kingdom.
As we look ahead, we want to invest more intentionally in ministry with children and families. We are exploring an additional family service and part-time children's minister as ways of helping more people encounter Christ and find a home at Ascension. These are important opportunities, but they will require us to grow together.
Our projected 2027 budget is $410,000 (total operating expenses), and we still have work to do before we can responsibly fund these additional priorities. If you have not yet made a pledge, I invite you to prayerfully consider doing so. If you have already pledged, I hope you will consider whether God may be calling you to take a meaningful next step in your partnership with us.
Ultimately, stewardship is not simply about funding a budget; we do not tithe to keep the lights on or compensate the preachers. It is one of the ways we practice discipleship together. Thank you for the many ways you already give through your prayers, service, encouragement of one another, and financial support as we step out in faith and courage into this new season at Ascension. I am grateful to be part of this congregation and excited about what God is doing among us.
In Christ,
Fr. Trent
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