Current Readings

• 2 Kings 2:1-12
• Psalm 50:1-6
• 2 Corinthians 4:3-6
• Mark 9:2-9

Sunday Morning Conversations

Topic:

TBD

Time:

9:40 am Sunday

Where:

Conference room

Giving Stewardship

Celebrating 125 Years of God’s Grace
Receiving God’s Love, Growing Together in Christ,
Giving in Loving Service

What does St. James Lutheran Church mean to you? 

It is a question that no doubt has been talked about and reflected upon for at least 125 years.  Now, we ask it again as we move into our 126th year.  In some ways, the answer to this question will be different today than it was 125 years ago.  Recently, while at Trinity Lutheran Parish in New York City, I asked some of the High School seniors that question.  As we reflected after a long day of serving meals, cleaning the kitchen, stocking the shelves of the food pantry, and getting ready for another day, I listened to their responses.  As often happens, their responses surprised me.  One said:  “The mission trips that I have taken at St. James have been an important part of my high school experience. I can’t imagine my life without them, they have helped me be the person that I am today, and I will always remember them.”  Others echoed similar responses – what they have received at St. James has had an impact upon their lives.  As someone who has planned and participated in many of those mission trips, it was both gratifying and humbling.  It is encouraging to know that what we do makes a difference in peoples lives.   

It would be interesting to know how people 125 years ago would have answered that question.  But perhaps more importantly, how will that question be answered next year, or 10 years form now?  The actions we take today will help determine that answer.  St. James is able to provide quality worship opportunities, faithful Christian education for children and adults, as well as community, fellowship and service to others because of the generous support of its many members and friends.  Members have been mailed a Promise Card. The promise card allows us to make a budget and plan for the year ahead, and your response is vital.  If you did not fill out a promise card last year, please prayerfully consider filling it out this year, and if you did, please prayerfully consider growing in your giving this year in response for the many ways God’s grace has touched you.  A chart is provided as a way of helping you. 

Please bring your filled out card to worship on November 21st of 22nd.

As always, we are deeply thankful for the many people who give so generously of their resources to the ministries of St. James.  We don't say it enough, but THANK YOU for the many ways that you support St. James.  Together, we celebrate 126 years (and counting!) of God's abundant grace and love!  On behalf of St. James, thank you for your generous gifts.

In Christ,
Pastor Kurt Billings, Pastor Peter Narum, the Stewardship Ministry Team