October 21, 2014

 

Dear MLEPC Members and Friends:

 

Time for a basic review for our long-time members and for an introduction to newcomers at MLEPC: We soon are coming up on Ingathering Sunday, November 9. This week we simply answer the question, "What is Ingathering Sunday?"

 

The idea behind "Ingathering" is that of the fall harvest. Autumn is the time when farmers work almost ceaselessly to gather in the harvest from the fields. It is not unusual to see huge combines with bright headlights working right up until dusk in the fields of America's heartland. The gathered crops then are safely processed and sent on to market for production and release to grocers. In the old days, however, those crops were stored on the farm in order to provide ample food for the family and local community throughout the winter months until new crops began to ripen the following summer. It was important to gather in an ample harvest in the fall if the people were to survive and thrive into the coming year.

 

At MLEPC we assemble annually on the second Sunday of November to gather in our church family's intended commitment for the upcoming year. Just like the farmer, it is equally important for our MLEPC to receive an ample response if it is to survive and thrive in the upcoming year. When we give a generous commitment of resources, we anticipate that we'll have all we need to attempt great things for God and His glory for next year. When we are spare in our response, we realize that we'll need to cut back on programming, staff, and property maintenance.

 

We therefore ask our members and friends to come to Ingathering Sunday on November 9 with a prayerful and generous commitment to help provide for the ministry and mission of our church in three areas:

1. Commitment of Time--Do you know that just showing up--regularly and a lot--is a huge blessing to our life together at the church? You've probably heard the old saying that says 90% of life is just showing up. Showing up is vitally important because we are a family of faith. We know that it is important for family to be together to share life's victories and defeats. We gather to encourage each other, to grow in faith with one another, and to be there for each other in tough times. God loves it when His children spend time together in His Presence. How much of you will we see at MLEPC in 2015?
   
   
   
2. Commitment of Talent--God gives each of us a particular set of skills and abilities. Some are organizers; others are troubleshooters. Some are great with numbers; others are wordsmiths. Some love to care for older believers; others enjoy getting on the floor with toddlers. Some have a creative eye; others can follow a logical process from start to finish. Some are musical; others like me are ushered into God's Presence through music. Some are good cooks; others like me love to eat what they cook. What talent will you contribute for 2015?
   
   
   
3. Commitment of Treasure--Yes, it takes money to keep us moving forward for God at our church. In 2014, we have an approximately 1.1 million dollar budget at MLEPC. A portion of that budget comes from various sources (special gifts, interest on trusts, building use by outside entities), but the vast majority is received through the tithes, gifts, and offerings of the church family. When we all step up, we have finances both to meet our needs and to extend our reach even further. So, how will you step up in terms of financial giving for 2015?

With anticipation, let us gather together on Sunday, November 9, to receive our harvest of time, talent, and treasure commitment. We truly want to have plenty of all three resources as we then anticipate what God will do in the coming year. Please make a special effort to join us that Sunday morning, if it is at all possible. Here's the morning schedule:

• 9:00 a.m.--unified worship service in the sanctuary
  • During the service, we shall present our Financial Faith Commitment Cards and Time & Talent Sheets for 2015.
  • You soon should receive a letter with the card and sheet in the mail. If you do not and would like to have them, please contact Nina Geitgey (412-531-3387, ext. 203) in the church office.

• 10:15 a.m.--Free fellowship luncheon in Fellowship Hall
  • The church staff hosts this luncheon as a way of thanking all of you for your ministry with us. The staff counts it a privilege to serve at MLEPC.
  • All are welcome!

That's what Ingathering Sunday is all about. Hope to see you then, if not sooner.

 

Pastor Tim

  

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