Messiah Missive

MESSIAH MISSIVE NO. 261

People so dearly loved by God,

Time after Epiphany continues to move us forward through January, and this Sunday marks the Baptism of Our Lord. It is a day in which we not only remember Christ’s baptism, but our baptism as well. It is a remarkable thing that we have been drawn into God’s own family through water and the Word! Come and remember the power of such water, as God’s love is poured out over us, around us, and among us.

Bulletin for 1-19-25: https://bit.ly/JAN19thBulletin-MLC25

Judy Cook: Member Judy Cook has died. We will gather for her memorial service Saturday January 18th at 11am. Please remember her family in your prayers.

Souper Bowl of Caring – January 12 through February 9: Join the Social Ministry Committee in tackling hunger by donating to the Tri-C East Campus Food Pantry. Please place items on the donation table by the church back entry.

Dear Congregation Members of Messiah Lutheran Church,

Grace and peace to you from our Lord Jesus Christ.

As we approach the end of the year, I am writing to share an important update regarding Messiah Lutheran Church’s financial situation and to invite your prayerful reflection and support as we look toward 2025.

Last year, the congregation approved a 2024 budget with a planned $40,000 deficit. Despite our best efforts to manage expenses and encourage giving, we are on track to realize that full deficit in the final months of this year. While we have reserves to meet this challenge for 2024, we are not in a position to sustain a similar shortfall in 2025 without significant adjustments to our staffing, ministries, or programs. Please consider the following as we head into our Congregational Meeting on December the 8th.

The solution to this challenge lies in the hands of our congregation, and I want to share a clearer picture of what is required. Messiah currently enjoys a monthly average of about 130 contributions. If each donor were able to increase their giving by $22 per month — approximately a 20% increase per giver — we could fully address the expected budget deficit for 2025 without making reductions to our staff or ministry efforts.

This is a moment for us all to come together, to prayerfully reflect on how we might each play a role in sustaining the work and witness of Messiah Lutheran Church. Here are three ways to engage:

Prayer: Please pray for our church, for our leadership, and for discernment as we navigate these financial challenges together.
Giving: If you are able, please consider increasing your monthly contribution to help us close the gap. For some, $22 a month may feel manageable, while others may be able to give more or less depending on individual circumstances. Every gift makes a difference.
Feedback and Ideas: We are committed to transparency and collaboration. If you have suggestions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. The Council will continue to keep the congregation informed as we move forward.

We remain steadfast in our faith that God provides, and we believe that through the generosity and commitment of this congregation, we can rise to meet this challenge together. Messiah Lutheran Church has been a place of worship, service, and community for so many, and with your support, it will continue to thrive for years to come.

Thank you for your attention, prayers, and continued dedication to the ministry we share.

In Christ’s Service,

Ben Johnson / Church Council President