Draw the Circle Wide
September 17, 2024
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,
give thanks for all circumstances,
for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
I grew up in a small college town in upstate New York—everyone knew each other and watched out for one another. Moving from my small town was challenging, as I figured out my footing. Since 2011, Saint John’s has become my small town. Here, we rejoice when new members join and when babies are born. We hold each other close when we’re walking through tender times. Together, we learn and deepen our faith. It’s in these moments when we can see the reach of our church. In the book God’s People, we’ve learned about the saints who have gone before us and bravely created Saint John’s on this triangle of land.
When we first began talking about fortifying our heating and air conditioning system and making room for bigger classrooms and new offices, there was concern that the campaign did not have a “bright and shiny” component. And yet, as we wrap up these four weeks of the campaign, we feel enthusiasm and excitement for the church we love. This work has reminded us what Saint John’s is made of: the people. A family friend told my children when they were little, “Remember who you are and whose you are.” Saint John’s has never wavered from this.
And now, when we need to stabilize our infrastructure, we have come together. We have leaned into the conversation, asking questions and discerning our next steps. We have explored what’s needed.
To date, over 130 households have pledged toward the three-year, $1,850,000 campaign. Because pledges continue to come in, the total will be announced on Sunday, June 2. If you have not already made a commitment, we invite you to join us to ensure we can continue God's work within our church walls and beyond. You can visit stjohnsaustin.org/giving/capital-campaign/ to submit your pledge. We give thanks for all who have contributed. We are a curious, seeking community that is providing for our next generation, and for this we give thanks.
God, your faithfulness has been evident at Saint John's generation after generation. May we respond at this moment of need also with faithfulness and gratitude. We joyously choose to lean into the next 75 years of changing the world through your love by giving 'intentionally or through simple grace.' You are calling and we are cheerfully answering. Amen.
~All capital campaign prayers for reflection this season are from Saint John's member, Ann Barlow.
