|
The Tradition Continues
2013 Capital Campaign
|
Three reasons why the UUMC Capital Campaign makes sense 
Dear Friends,
We're proud to call ourselves members of UUMC. It's a place where we've found community, nurturing, but also challenge -- and one of the challenges has been the call to raise $2.1 million for the next phase of the capital campaign. By now, you've heard several perspectives on the capital campaign, and we'd like to add our thoughts on how we've come to believe the capital campaign makes so much sense for our church at this time.
First, it makes financial sense. Yes, there's a large cost upfront, but it will be more than paid for over the coming decades. Money we're currently spending on repairs and inefficient heating and cooling is money that can't be used by other ministries of the church. Sacrificing a little now will allow us to free up resources for years to come, and reduce the overhead costs on every activity that takes place in the building.
It also makes theological sense. Our congregation is known for its commitments to environmental stewardship and social justice. But what does it mean to call for sustainability when we're using so much energy on an outdated HVAC system? And what does it mean to preach acceptance and welcome for all when our restrooms don't even meet basic accessibility standards? Jesus calls us to not just be hearers of the word, but do-ers as well, and the improvements supported by the capital campaign will help bring our words and our practice into alignment.
Finally, the campaign makes community sense. We all live in a culture steeped in individualism and impatience -- what do I get, and how soon can I get it? Here's a chance for us to be part of something larger than our own lives, to commit now to serving future congregants we may never meet, and to stand with Christ against the idea that our own lives and comfort have to come first.
These are just a few of the reasons that we're supporting the next phase of the capital campaign. We look forward to celebrating the culmination of the campaign on May 5, and to participating in the congregation and its ministries for years to come.
In Christ,
Steve Boyles and Hyojin Han
|
Capital Campaign Sunday Speakers
Reaching out to UUMC members about the importance of pledging
This Sunday, we'll take a few moments during our worship services to listen to the ways that UUMC's ministries have touched and transformed the lives of others. This Sunday, we'll hear from Mark Jones and next Sunday, Margaret Berry will speak. These talks will lead up to our Pledge Day on Sun. May 5. That's when UUMC members will bring their financial pledges to church in support of Phase Two of our building improvement project. Click here for more information and details about these Phase Two projects.
|
Linda Aaker & Bob Armstrong
"I'm Continuing the Tradition!"
"Why would an Episcopalian and a Lutheran pledge to help renovate a Methodist church? Why do we attend church services and Sunday School regularly? Because UUMC has become our church home, even though we have not "joined" the United Methodist Church.
When we returned to Austin after seven years in Washington, DC, we came to the Explorers Sunday School class to reconnect with many friends we knew from outside the church. We went to church services because we knew the pastor. Explorers, and a succession of UUMC pastors, held our hearts and hands over the next twelve years as Bob faced, and overcame, serious medical issues.
UUMC's commitment to social justice has given us opportunities to act on our beliefs. Walking to the statue of Barbara Jordan with a temporarily homeless family staying in the church was a grace note for all of us. Watching a mother and her young child each write her name in a new, not hand me down book, provided by the Explorers Class, was another. There have been many.
UUMC's congregation has a vibrant quality. Just as the music is sublime and sometimes challenging, so are the people. There is a liveliness, an openness to UUMC.
We are so thankful that that openness has been extended to us, an Episcopalian and a Lutheran.
UUMC is our church home. We would not let our personal home go without needed repairs. We are committed to keeping our spiritual home in good repair as well."
|
|
|
|
|
to make a gift online now to our Capital Campaign
|
More from the supporters of our Capital Campaign
APRIL 21:
Capital Campaign Supporter Gary Walker.
APRIL 14:
Capital Campaign Co-Chairs Rowland Cook, Diane Ireson, Tiffany & Geoff Kay.
|
We Need
Your Support
At University United Methodist Church, we have a long tradition of worshiping and growing together in the light of God's love. We offer an open door and compassionate heart to those in our community and world who are searching for a place where the truth is told and all are welcome.
To continue the UUMC tradition as a sanctuary and voice for God in the midst of a broken world, we must be ready to do our financial part to sustain our ministries.
Replacing our deteriorating HVAC system, building accessible restrooms and remodeling a kitchen that no longer meets city code are three improvements that now need your financial support.
|
|
Save The Date
May 5: PLEDGE DAY Congregation members bring forward their pledges during our 8:30 and 11 am worship services. Special music will be offered by the UUMC Choir. A church-wide barbeque picnic will follow our late worship services.
|
You may also call the Church Office at 478-9387 during regular business hours and before noon on Friday University United Methodist Church
2409 Guadalupe St.
Austin, Texas 78705
|
|
|
