In preparation for this moment we will be moving into a season of prayer, teaching, and conversation around financial stewardship. The commitments of time, talent and treasure of many are what have brought us to this historic event. We will kick off our stewardship series on Sunday, October 13, which will culminate in the pledge card ingathering on November 3 and November 10. The night before Diocesan Convention, November 15, everyone is invited as we head down to Granbury for a fun overnight trip at Camp Crucis to celebrate all that God has done. The following morning, November 16, we will rejoice in being welcomed as the newest parish at Diocesan Convention!
In order to mark this moment and solidify your place in our church history, I want you to be included in a parish photo on November 3. I also want each of you to be a founding pledging parishioner of Saint Barnabas Parish, which will be marked on a document that will stand for generations to come. Diocesan Canons require at least fifty baptized persons sign a document stating their commitment to maintain worship in our church and under the government of the diocese for years come.
I have been in many churches where this document is framed and prominently hung for generations to see and witness. It marks the names of the faithful who have supported the church worship, pledges, and participation over the years. At the Cathedral, it was inspiring to be greeted by it every time you walk into the church office and see all the names of families who still fill the pews weekly. I want each of your names on ours, as we begin by making our commitment financially in this campaign and for the years to come. We will retain the original copy and present a copy to Bishop Iker at Diocesan Convention. I plan to frame ours to hang with prominence in our church, and to send you a personalized copy to have and treasure as well!
You will receive more about the biblical texts, devotional resources, and small group times to assist you in your preparation next week. However, I wanted to ensure you had these dates down for what will be remembered as a key season in the life of our church. Join me in praying for God’s guidance daily. God purposes to incorporate you and me in His work through Saint Barnabas Anglican Parish next year as we set the course for years to come.