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Someone recently asked me why I support our plans for building and parking expansion and missions. A fair question. I’ll address it.
First of all, we need to add facility and parking space to grow. We are maxed out on Sundays and Wednesdays, with no room to grow. Our youth and choirs meet in inadequate space, both in the basement. God has built among us strong ministries in worship, discipleship and outreach. We need more and better space in which to continue our growth.
Second, our building team has decided upon a good design for our facility expansion and renovation. Many details are yet to be decided, such as interior colors, etc. They sought your input and have included many of your ideas in the design. I am excited about the new design and believe it represents the best use of our current property. Third, I believe it is time to move forward; it is the right decision for Covenant. I believe passionately in the ministry of this church, not just because I am your pastor; rather, my life, the lives of my family, and the lives of many others have been touched by the loving hand of God. I believe that is a good thing and I want it to continue. I believe that in numerous ways God is honored by our life and ministry.
I am well aware of denominational issues about which we are concerned, and I and others are seeking to respond and act faithfully. However, my primary responsibility is to the building of God’s kingdom through Covenant, the local church.
Fourth, I believe it is good for us to step out in faith and take a risk. In order to accomplish this, we will have to place our trust in God’s provision; that is where we all need to be. It will require growth in faithfulness on the part of each one of us; again, that is a good thing. I do not fear failure; I’ve failed before and I will fail again. I do fear mediocrity and complacency. We have faithfully grown our ministry and saved one million dollars for this project. Just the other day we received a gift of $50,000 expressing confidence and enthusiasm in Covenant. I am passionately committed to reaching our community and world for Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is alive among us; I see his presence daily. May we continue to be a light to the world.
With joy in Christ’s service,
Hal |
