Stewardship

Hello Everyone,

I do not know about you, but once again I am finding my mailbox overflowing with requests for donations to support all kinds of causes.  Many are really good causes and at times I feel overwhelmed wishing I had the ability to help them all.   Then of course, I have those moments when I am simply frustrated at how many organizations have my information and are asking for money when things are already so tight and getting tighter!

Although this is similarly a letter requesting a donation or pledge, we are also asking you to pray about your relationship with God and your church. What does it really mean to you? Pray on this and think about what the church makes available to us and to the public through helping people stay physically fit with yoga, Zumba, and a Women’s Health program, along with CPR classes and food and health seminars throughout the year.

We have dinners to raise funds for Veterans, along with plays that raise money for Heifer. We are blessed to continue the White Gifts program with the local Somerset Elementary schools. Our church gives financial assistance to help local food, clothing, and shelter programs throughout the local community and beyond.

We strive to help with emotional and spiritual concerns by offering a Grief Group, and a Prayer Group. There are opportunities for private consultation and visits with the pastor. We have educational programs such as Sunday Time for Children and regularly changing Bible Study for adults. Starting this month we are beginning our Advent Book Study on the Gospels, on Wednesday afternoons at 1 PM. The most important thing among all of this is that we are here to Worship and Praise the Lord our God every Sunday morning at 10 AM in-person, on Facebook, and on YouTube. There is regular time for fellowship with one another.

Our Pianist Yuri Woodcock will be offering a musical event at the Clifton Rehab this December. Speaking of Clifton, I offer ongoing support to both the Nursing Home and the Assisted Living Communities. I meet regularly with local clergy and chaplains to strive to assist where there is a need.

Let us not forget the Christmas Bazaar in the fall and the Trunk Treasures in the spring, both which showcase so many local crafters and artisans. Now even a few local businesses are also participating. I am available to offer prayers whenever asked by the local community and have participated in the Animal Blessing opportunities at both the church and the Swansea Animal Shelter, Wreaths Across America, Veterans Day Service, and 911 Remembrance.

Soon, we will begin the White Gifts program, and forms for the Luminary Candles will be available. Luminaries are another way we try to reach out to the wider community. A cross of luminaries is set up and lit on the church green on Christmas Eve for all to see. Following our Christmas Eve service, we have a special time for remembering and lifting all those for whom the candles have been lit.

With all of this and whatever is happening in your world around you, we do hope that you will prayerfully pledge what you are able for 2026. Let us not forget there are other funds along with continued support to our regular programs such as the General Fund, the Birthday Bank, the Memorial Garden, the Discretionary Fund, the Benevolent Fund, and the Emery Scholarship. If I have missed something here, let me know. Please know that giving is not only financial, but the work of our hands together. Do not forget to help with and shop at the Christmas Bazaar on November 22nd!  Please remember that it is all about what is in your heart, and mind, and soul, as you speak with God in your prayers and listen to what God says is right for you. “So let each one give as they purpose in their heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.”  – 2 Corinthians 9:7“ For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also,” -- Matthew 6:21

Peace,    The Reverend Cheryl Rieder