Three things I want to bring to your attention in this Weekly Word. First, today is Veteran’s Day, a day to honor all veterans and those still serving.
I remember my grandfather who served in World War II. Both my dad (Navy) and my father-in-law (Army) served as well. I also think about the veterans who are part of our church. Every week they worship and serve at Park. There are two memorial plaques in our sanctuary remembering veterans from our church killed in action in World War I and World War II.
I’m sure many of you have veterans in your family or know those who’ve served.. Let’s remember them and their families today, honor them, and while we’re at it, say a prayer for them.
Second, we’ve begun estimating our giving for 2023. This is something we started two years ago to help plan the budget for the coming year. It’s been a huge success! You should have received an email letter from me on Tuesday, November 8, with more information (if not, check your junk or spam folder). The letter includes the link to the online Estimated Giving Card.
As we look to our 130th year as a church and estimate our giving for 2023, we get to follow in the footsteps of those who’ve come before us. We get to ensure that the goodness of Christ continues to grow in our church through the generosity of Park people. Our predecessors knew what we know to be true: Each of us giving from the heart (not out of compulsion or guilt) is something that warms the heart of God. “Everyone should give whatever they have decided in their heart,” Paul wrote to Corinthian Christians. “We shouldn’t give with hesitation or because of pressure. God loves it when the giver delights in giving, and God has the power to provide you with more than enough of every kind of grace” (2 Corinthians 9:7-8).
Would you join me and many others in completing your estimated giving for 2023 by clicking here?
And just a heads up, we are trying something different this year. Rather than spending hundreds of dollars on materials and postage, we are only sending out a digital version of the letter. However, through November, printed copies of the letter will be available on Sunday mornings in the sanctuary and Estimated Giving Cards will be in the bulletin.
And third, chat sessions. Following worship the next two Sundays (November 13 and 200, I will be hosting informal chat sessions to get your input for Park’s future. Grab some coffee in the Gathering Room, walk down the hall to the west wing classrooms, and join the 30-minute conversation. If you’ve recently begun coming to Park or have been away for a while and now returned, I’d especially love the chance to hear from you.
And finally, let me wrap this up by saying this: Can I just say how much I love the vibe of our church? I do! I’m deeply grateful to be part of a church where we are genuinely glad to be together! And seeing you and worshiping with you on Sundays is the highlight of my week.
So, I hope I get the opportunity to see you on Sunday. If you’ve been watching online, why not join us in person? I’d love for you to experience the beauty and goodness of Park in person, and I’d love to greet you face to face.
Breathe love, my friends!
Pastor Gregg
