Dear St. Stephen's community

As you know, the ministry of St. Stephen's relies on your continued support to effect positive changes in the wider community. We are grateful for the tremendous support which we receive from the St. Stephen's family that encompasses both gifts of your time and financial resources. God has blessed us over the years through the generosity of our membership. Although our membership is small, our congregation has been generous in supporting the ministry of St. Stephens in many ways.

Besides paying the staff, and maintaining the building, your contributions are used for ministry to and enrichment of the community. First and foremost is our hosting of the Food Pantry in concert with Lutheran Community Services (LCS). Our ability to provide the infrastructure for the Food Pantry depends in large part on the upkeep of the church property, which is our largest expense outside of personnel.

In addition to hosting the Food Pantry, our building also hosts two other congregations, Abundant Life Faith Center and New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church.

Other examples of St. Stephen's outreach and ministry to the community are the St. Stephen's concert series which brings world class musical performances to the community and Peace of Pizza, which brought pizza, ice cream, and Jazz to well over 100 members of the community.

None of these ministries would be possible without your support. As we enter into 2024 we urge you to prayerfully and thoughtfully consider your pledging for the coming year. Your pledge commitment will be invaluable in assisting the St. Stephen's church council in budgeting and planning for the year ahead.

Please keep an eye out for your pledge packet in the mail, and again, thank you for your continued support.

On behalf of the St. Stephen's council.

Rick Feltman