Reporting for Work

Questions and answers about the sanctuary renovation and organ replacement which appeared in the June 6, 2004, issue of Steeple Notes.

Why is this Sunday different from every other day? A pair of reasons. First, because it is Pentecost Sunday. Second, because it is "We Have Work to Do" Sunday. For the forgetful, what is Pentecost Sunday? Pentecost is the observance, fifty days after Easter, of the coming of the Holy Spirit to the disciples in Jerusalem. While it is an overworked cliché to call it "the birthday of the church," it does represent the empowerment of ordinary Christians by the indwelling Spirit of God. Why do we wear red on Pentecost Sunday? Because flame and fire (along with the dove) have always been symbols of the Spirit. Why are we culminating a capital campaign on Pentecost? Because nothing of lasting merit and worth can be accomplished apart from the Spirit. Should we bring our pledge cards with us? That's the plan. Will there be extra pledge cards in the pew racks? Of course. What if we are out of the country....or the county? It will be much appreciated if you would find a way to respond before Sunday. Will Steve Eisenhard sing "Bless This House"? Who else? Will Lindsay Hinz (along with a little help from Bill Pettibone) create one of her innovative receptacles for our gifts and offerings? You'll have to see it to believe it. Will there be something to eat with our punch and coffee? Certainly. If we still have over $800,000 to go to reach our pledge target, can we get "home" from here? You do the math. We have approximately 940 pledging units to the Operating Fund. As noted in Dr. Ritter's letter, we have received advance cards from 84 staff members and leaders totaling $767,023. But it must be remembered that the last capital campaign for the CLC generated a total of 630 cards (not 940). Generally speaking, that is a "high water" ratio for a capital campaign as compared to an annual appeal. Can we spread our pledge over three years? That's the way the card is set up. But you can indicate any payment timetable that works for you. Is there anything else I need to know? Just this. That as a congregation, you are enjoyed and very much appreciated.