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From the Vestry

“The worst economic situation since the Great Depression.” “Living beyond our means.” We've all heard these and many other things recently. Could there be a less opportune time for St. Andrew's stewardship campaign? But in many ways there couldn't be a better time for us to consider our relationship with God and with St. Andrew's.

It seems that fear is all around us. We can conquer this fear — as individuals and as a community — through faith. Our faith in God allows us to let go of our fears and let God have control. We know that Jesus talked more about money than almost anything else; asking his disciples to remember that all we have is not really ours, that we must be good stewards of the things entrusted to our care, and that we must help those who are less fortunate than ourselves.

During this stewardship season, we should not fear the future. We, the Vestry of St. Andrew's, have faith that God will continue to provide for the wellbeing of our community. Our pledge is a visible statement of our faith. It is also a statement of our spiritual progress and growth, and of our desire to continue growing.

We're asking you to take that same faithful leap and pledge! It is only in giving that we receive.

Please take a moment to review these Frequently Asked Questions about pledging:

• Q: How can I pledge when the economy is so uncertain?
  A: How can you not? It is only through faith that we can overcome fear.
  
  
• Q: I've never pledged before. How do I do it?
  A: Call the office, ask Bruce, or ask any of us on the Vestry. We'll be glad to help.
  
  
• Q: My pledge would be small, why should I bother?
  A: If you have never pledged before, it can be another step in your spiritual journey. We don't consider any pledge to be “too small.”
  
  
• Q: Why can't I just put money in the plate as I am able?
  A: All contributions to God's church are acts of faith, but pledging is a very special contribution. Your pledge says, “I believe in this place and its mission and I'm committed to supporting it.” From a practical standpoint, it is also much easier for the Vestry to plan for our programs and ministries if we know what our expected income will be.
  
  
• Q: What if I pledge and something bad happens and I can't fulfill it?
  A: The unexpected can happen, and we understand that. While a pledge is a commitment, sometimes things change. In such a circumstance, all we would ask is that you contact the Rector or a Vestry member and explain the situation, so we can plan accordingly.
  
  
• Q: How can I justify increasing my pledge in these uncertain times?
  A: We all are challenged by this question. Through prayer we can each consider our answer. Ultimately you should feel good about your commitment to St. Andrew's and about your personal journey toward tithing.

The Vestry would very much like to broaden participation in the congregation by increasing the number of pledges we receive compared to last year. We also hope that those who already pledge can increase their support for St. Andrew's mission and ministries by increasing their pledge. Enclosed please find a pledge card. Please bring it with you to church on Sunday, November 16, Stewardship Sunday or mail it to the office. You can also pledge on-line at http://standrewscollegepark.org/pledge.php

Thank you for your support of our vibrant community of faith.