Urgent Message from Our Wardens

 Richard Dennique and Nancy English, Church Wardens, write on behalf of St Luke’s Vestry to reach out to the Anglican faithful of St. Luke’s congregation.

Following our last vestry meeting in which parish finances and needs were discussed, we deem it our duty and responsibility to bring your attention to the fact that our church is failing to meet its monthly financial obligations.  We are not going to exaggerate our situation or pull on your heart strings or lecture anyone about tithing. 

Despite your faithful contributions, the weekly Sunday offerings are insufficient to meet our monthly obligations, by about four thousand dollars each month.  The simple reality of our position is that we are broke.  We are in debt, with no visible sign of recovery.

We have tried to be good stewards, by keeping our expenses to essential needs only; however, we continue to experience short falls, month after month.  We are digging a hole and it is time to stop digging! 

Together, and by the grace of God, we can turn things around!!  Scripture reminds us, “With God, all things are possible!” Matthew 19:23

We are calling on each of our parishioners to prayerfully review their individual financial situation to see if you can increase your gifts.  Also, for those who have not yet contributed this year, we ask that you consider financially supporting your church, so that we can sustain the ministry to our church family and community!  Any amount, large or small, will help the overall monthly income!  Your regular donation will make a difference!

Alas, we make this plea at a time when our Parish is also faced with the need to replace our aging oil furnace, which can fail at any time, without notice.  The expense of replacing the furnace comes at a cost of $12,000.  As a direct result, not only are we asking our parishioners to increase your extremely needed contributions, but we are also inviting you to make an essential gift towards the cost of a new furnace, which we are looking to replace in the fall.

All donations will be receipted for income tax purposes.  Ruth Hall, our Parish Administrative Assistant, will keep track of incoming donations specifically made towards the cost of a new furnace, as well as regular contributions.

On a personal note, I, Richard Dennique, during my extensive military career, was taught that, as a leader, do not ask your people to do anything you would not do yourself.  So, Dorine and I would like to start the donation process by pledging $500 towards the cost of a new furnace.

God bless each and every member of our Parish for your donations and support!