Embry Hills United Methodist Church is a congregation with a strong tradition and a bright future. And, we are blessed to stand at such a crucial juncture in our church’s life.

Almost fifty years ago, a new Methodist congregation was established in what was then one of the most rapidly-growing suburban areas in the country. And, as is always the case when new congregations are planted, a group of visionary and faithful pioneers commenced to build a congregation that would nourish the hopes and touch the hurts of the community it hoped to serve. Since that time, many devoted sisters and brothers have remained at Embry Hills, sustaining its ministry through good and bad times. We are beneficiaries of these Embry Hills forerunners, who have labored to establish a wonderful tradition of mission and ministry here.

As we stand on the brink of Embry Hills’ 50th anniversary next year, we have the amazing opportunity to serve generations yet to come, just as those faithful pioneers served in ways that have made a difference in our lives.

Our Administrative Council chose last fall to postpone our financial campaign for our 2010 mission and ministry until after the first of the year. That time has arrived, and we’ll all be hearing much in the days ahead about our “Strong Tradition-Bright Future, Embry Hills at 50” campaign. Thanks to the phenomenal generosity of our congregation, 2009 finished in an excellent way, and we are anticipating (and needing) great things to continue in 2010. Our campaign will be conducted between February 14th and March 28th. Here’s what your church needs from you.

1. Pray. Let’s be certain that our church’s mission and ministry is uppermost in our prayers.

2. Please consider the level of your investment in Embry Hills present and future. In order to continue funding our ministry, even at the reduced levels of 2009, Embry Hills will need an increase in our annual operating revenue. If you made second-mile gifts to close 2009, we are asking you to consider incorporating all or part of that gift into your operating giving going forward.

3. Consider where you are in relation to the tithe, and plan to step up to the next level of giving. The Bible’s standard of giving is 10%, and some in our church are experiencing the joy that comes from giving in such a fashion. Of course, if one is not tithing, one cannot usually jump to the tithe in one step. So, if you are giving 3% of your income to Embry Hills, consider giving 4% in 2010.

4. If you are not giving at all, please begin. It is amazing what can take place when many people pull together to accomplish a common purpose. If you did not give anything to Embry Hills in 2009, would you consider making a pledge of $500 for 2010?

5. Please plan to attend one of our neighborhood gatherings, which will take place between March 8th and March 19th. These in-home gatherings will give each and all of us an opportunity to connect and to be inspired by some of the stories of lives touched by Embry Hills.

6. Please make every effort to be in worship and in church school on February 14th and 28th and March 7th and 14th, during which we will be studying and worshiping together.

7. Please plan to fill out and return a generous pledge on March 28th, as we seek to build the strong traditions that will yield the bright future Embry Hills has in store.

Elaine and I are happy to speak with you any time—about your giving, about your questions or concerns, about your joys and hopes. Please be in touch as you have need.

A strong tradition. A bright future. Both occasions for thanksgiving and celebration!

Love,

Mark