“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”
Winston Churchill
It is once again that time of year for the Council to work to be good stewards of the monies we all contribute and develop a budget for 2021. But in order to do these things, we are all called upon to make a financial commitment. Those difficult words, “make a pledge.”
This year’s Pledge Commitment theme is “Give Heartily” It comes from Colossians 3 verses 23 and 24. It reads “Whatever you do, do it heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men.” In the current state of affairs, I couldn’t think of anything that the world needs now more than gifts given from the heart.
Throughout much of this past year living with the impact of the COVID-19 the staff and many members of New Hope have worked heartily to continue the work of the church. Despite having limited access to our facility, programs for youth, bible study, seniors groups, men’s group and Pastoral care continue in the virtual world. We continue to support needs in the community through Manna, a regular meal program, community service projects and support our members that champion various walks and events that impact people far beyond our community.
The bible is filled with scripture about giving, tithing and stewardship but what does my heart tell me right now. I am filled with gratitude and optimism. Grateful for a life filled with loving family and friends, wonderful teachers, mentors and coworkers. Grateful for the community we live in and the creativeness of New Hope Church to continue to serve this community. I am optimistic that our separation will come to a conclusion and we will have access to and feel secure enough to use our facilities together.
With that reflection, I want to express my thankfulness to God for his blessings and hope that you will reflect on your heart felt gratitude. I can’t think of a place or group of people that is better equipped to share the good news than here at New Hope.
We are asking that you / your family reflect upon your blessings and prayerfully “Give Heartily” to support all that New Hope provides.
Your pledge is an estimate of what you believe you can entrust to New Hope in 2021 in response to the gifts that God has shared with you. Your pledge is a private matter and will only be seen by our Treasurer Joe Bulock.
Pledge cards will be collected on October 11, 2020 during our Pledge Sunday, Communion Drive-thru event. If you are unable to join us, please mail your pledge card to the church office at: 29295 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Thank you for your generosity,
Tom LaVanne
Stewardship Chairperson