June 2018

A Word from the Pastor:

​We knew our church needed a building addition. In 1998 one Sunday School classroom actually used part of a closet. The church and pastor’s office were closeted together in the today’s library. There was no place for post worship fellowship and refreshments. On the first Sunday of the month we did gather for “high coffee” in the Terrace Room. But, without an elevator, differently abled people were unable to attend. Our main entrance was barely visible, with partially hidden side entrances on the north and south.

We presented a plan. We would construct additional offices and fellowship space; install an elevator. Total cost? $660,000. We thought we were good to go. But the plan failed, miserably. We were only able to garner $250,000 in pledges. What happened?

We settled for what we needed, rather than prayerfully exploring God’s vision for our mission and ministry. We claimed the same scripture used in today’s welcoming statement: “In Christ, a New Creation.” We dreamed dreams. How could our new building addition accommodate the specs for a preschool? When we explored how this could be a hospitable space, we included showers and laundry space in our plans. We wanted to be bold, proclaiming welcome with a large entrance space facing the east. Total cost? $1,500,000. But we were caught up in God’s vision. We responded generously and sacrificially pledged our support.

Here we are, twenty years later. Every Sunday we pray for the care of God’s good creation, even as our R-1 insulation contributes to a larger carbon footprint. Furthermore, our campus has safety issues. I am confident that we can meet our financial challenge. We are good at supporting building improvements. But, can we be as good at building ministry? Rather than settling for what we need, I hope that we can explore what it means to be caught up in God’s vision for Zion, being a people “connecting through grace.” It’s time to dream dreams. How can we grow in hospitality? How do we more fully engage in the grace of stewardship?

Thank you for praying and responding to ways that you can participate.

In and through Christ,
Pastor Steve Klemz

The Herald - June 2018
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