We began 2009 with a strong faith, a good spirit, and acknowledged uncertainty.  The economic climate compelled us to delay plans for a capital campaign, put building projections on hold, and focus on the basic principles of stewardship and discipleship. By the grace of God and your faithful support, we have weathered a year of uncertainty very well. Calvary United Methodist Church remains exceptionally strong. I am happy to report that at the end of the year our income exceeded our expenses by more than $6,000.

 

In many ways 2009 was a year of growth for Calvary. Certain records would suggest that. We had the highest average worship attendance in our 49 year history. There were 54 baptisms and 123 new members. Sixty-eight were received on profession of faith. Our membership now stands at 1,561.

 

Our Children's Ministry enjoyed many high points in 2009. We had an increased Sunday School and KidVenture attendance, and a Vacation Bible School that included 225 children and 130 volunteers.
 Our Student ministries experienced growth in both Jr. and Sr. High involvement.  Their 24/7 prayer room drew participation from every sector of the church family. The Reach Workcamp to Niagara Falls included 73 youth and 20 adults.

 

This past year provided a proliferation of Adult discipleship opportunities. Many of you participated in our special studies, shared in area service projects, and participated in mission trips to Iowa, North Carolina, and the Midwest Distribution Center in Chatham, Illinois. In addition, there were numerous occasions in 2009 when the people of Calvary responded with great care and generosity to the special needs of others.

 

Calvary is a vibrant church with expanding ministries and an exciting future. We seek to be good stewards of all that God has given to us. As we make financial decisions for this year, I am grateful to report that our total amount pledged, $1,340,000, exceeds last year's total by slightly more than $50,000. Your Administrative Board has approved a budget for 2010 that will meet our basic operating needs. However, in recent years, our budget constraints did not allow us to make the important upgrades to equipment and properties that are inevitable. Your board believes it is time to move forward with these needs. In the coming days you will learn more about how we can do that.

 

I would like to offer a special focus for the coming year. As our purpose is to make disciples for Jesus Christ, it is important that every member and friend of Calvary is truly connected. This involves being connected to God and to the church family. I envision a congregation where every member is involved in some group that embodies love, nurture, support, and accountability. I envision a congregation where no one suffers alone, no one is neglected, no one feels unimportant. I envision a procedure where those who miss a number of consecutive Sundays will be contacted by someone who will say, "We have missed you. Are you okay?"

 

It is also important that every member and friend of Calvary is involved in ministry. To be a disciple of Jesus Christ is to share in his ministry in the world today. I envision a Calvary that will make a greater impact in our community and world. I envision all the people of Calvary truly excited about what they are doing for the Kingdom of God.

 

Everyone Connected and Everyone in Ministry. With God's blessing this can be a reality at Calvary. I have shared with concept with the staff, various members, the advisory team, the Administrative Board, and now with you. I will be seeking your ideas, your assistance, and your leadership.

 

We are blessed to have within our membership so much talent, diversity, strong leadership, and faithful servants. It exciting to be a part of this congregation! It is also a blessing to work with those who make up the staff of Calvary United Methodist Church. They are talented and dedicated people. It is fun, challenging, reassuring, and inspiring to work with them.

 

I am also blessed to be married to one who has supported and encouraged me in ministry for 28 years. As my congregations have grown larger, responsibilities and expectations have increased. I am grateful for Kandi's understanding and grateful that she can share her musical talents with Calvary and has found a connection through praise band, "Higher Ground".

 

This year, 2010, is our 50th anniversary as a congregation. A special committee has been planning ways to properly observe this milestone. Our story is a great story of vision, commitment, sacrifice, and growth. We share our gratitude for all who have been a part of Calvary's past. We share our dedication to be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ in the years to come.

 

Sincerely,

 

 

Rev. Dr. Randall K. Perry (bio)
Directing Pastor