A Stimulus for the Church?

Although there are no easy answers to challenges of the financial crisis, our faith teaches us to continue to hold our hopes and dreams close at hand.

This evening, I went to the final meeting of our church’s 3-Year Vision Plan Committee.  Sitting around a table on folding chairs, recommendations in hand, we reviewed our hopes and dreams for our church.

Yet soon we were derailed by fiscal concerns.  Worries about covering operating costs and increasing pledges are a growing concern for our congregation.  For the first time in about ten years, we launched a pledge drive to urge people to increase donations.  One of the committee members joked that we need a stimulus plan for our church.

Back at my apartment after the meeting, I glanced over the Washington Post website.  On the top left corner of the screen is a prominent picture and article about government cutbacks to faith-based services.  Christian charities and others across the nation continue to struggle to serve a growing need with less and less funding.

Although there are no easy answers to challenges of the financial crisis, our faith teaches us to continue to hold our hopes and dreams close at hand.  Our committee at church will present our 3-Year Vision Plan with an awareness of funding limitations, but also a deep sense of our greater vision and commitment to our community in Christ.  I hope that despite the current struggles we face, we will continue to give generously and advocate passionately for those who need it most.