During the last few weeks, you have received a great deal of information from the church about our “Imagine” capital stewardship campaign.  You have heard about our plans to build a new youth center.  You have read about our plans to renovate the Fellowship Hall, Hall of the Apostles, and the kitchen.  And you know of our plans to retire our church’s indebtedness.  I realize that it is very easy to get caught up in the architect’s drawings and financial details of the campaign and forget the reason we are involved in this emphasis.  So, I want to invite you to think with me for a few minutes about the people our expanded ministries will touch.

When we talk about renovating the Fellowship Hall, historical Hall of the Apostles, and kitchen, I want you to think of the hundreds who gather in our church each week for food, fellowship, and fun.  If our sanctuary represents the front door of our church for many, then our fellowship hall is the back door.  It is our den where people relax over a cup of coffee and visit with one another.  It is where many community receptions and programs take place.  It is where our church welcomes and entertains others from the community, offering the grace of Christ.

When we talk about building a new Youth Center, think about the six hundred students in grades six through twelve who will come there to grow into mature disciples of Jesus Christ. Envision those who will gather in a safe environment to learn about God’s love and then go out into the world to serve.  Listen as they laugh and sing and play. Do you see the joy on their parents’ faces?

When we talk about retiring our church’s $8 million dollar debt, think about the $20,000 each month in interest payments we make to the bank each month and what a difference that amount of money would make if it was directed toward outreach instead.  Can you see the faces of those whose lives will be changed forever because of the compassionate outreach of this church?

You get the idea.  The “Imagine” capital funds campaign is not really about buildings or debt.  It is about people.  This Sunday, February 26, we will gather in the sanctuary at 11:15 a.m. for a time of celebration.  A concert will kick-off the service at 10:45 a.m., and we will conclude with a church family reception at 12:15 p.m.  I hope that you are making your plans to be present.  I also hope that you are praying about your investment in the lives of the people our church will touch for years to come.  Just imagine what God wants to do for others through us!  

I’ll see you Sunday at 11:15 a.m.!

Bill