Light Work

Written by Jonathan Krogh

Dear Generous People:

It’s that time of year again when a pledge form will arrive in your mailbox, inviting you to consider what you are able to contribute toward our church’s operating expenses for the coming year. Ten times each year, the Session reviews the gifts and expenditures of our congregation, and this year we have witnessed something remarkable: in every month of 2026, congregational giving exceeded our budgeted expectations. Simply put, we underestimated your generosity. We are deeply grateful. So, what does this mean as we look ahead to 2027?

For the coming year our pledge theme is “Sharing the Light.” The light of Christ shines through missions we support, relationships we build, and countless acts of kindness both seen and unseen that reflect God's love in our community and beyond. I do not want to highlight the needs before us or on how much more we might accomplish with additional resources. Instead, I want simply and sincerely to invite everyone to participate in sharing the light. 

As is true in most churches, a relatively small group of members provide a majority of the financial support. Fewer than 20% of our members account for more than 80% of gifts. What is more, a majority of our active members do not take part in the annual pledge drive. (Good Grief! I sound like I work for public radio.) My hope is not to create pressure, but to encourage each of us to share in supporting the life and ministry of our church in whatever way we are able.

I especially want to extend a heartfelt invitation to those who have never before made a pledge to their church. You can find our 2027 online pledge form here. If you are reading this and are active in another worshiping community, take this as an invitation to assist your own congregation. (Be sure to mention this essay so I can call your pastor and receive a commission on your newfound generosity.) 

To those who continue to give so generously to the work of our church, please accept my deepest thanks. Your gifts make our shared ministry possible. The Session is grateful, and so am I.

With gratitude for all that we share, and with the promise of a more interesting musing next week, I remain,

With Love and Gratitude,
Jonathan Krogh
Your Pastor

Jonathan Krogh
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