From Moderator Calvin Hall

Blessings,

I’m fairly certain that none of us enjoys paying bills. Many can’t be avoided. Some are for those things which may not seem essential but make our lives that much better. So, we prioritize, budget, save and plan, especially during challenging times.

It’s the same here at the church. Expenses occur, some monthly, budgeted fuel oil and utilities, insurance, and some yearly like property taxes on the parsonage and our Association and Conference dues. Some are planned for and some are unexpected (like mice). All need to be addressed. That’s where we all need to come in because we are all owners of the assets, physical and fiscal, and the money to pay the expenses comes from us.

As our church is a collective of individuals, we have an even more important challenge when planning our budget. We are called to be God’s “hands and feet'' here on earth helping neighbors who need our assistance. God expects it as the Great Commandment tells us.

As one of the founding churches in our local food pantry, GIFT─Grace Interfaith Food Pantry─we are called to not only offer our financial support, historically in the amount of $1,000, but food items and labors of love. Kim-Anne Perkins works in the GIFT office scheduling appointments for clients and offers her expertise in grant writing. Claude Brissette works each week to unpack food donations from local donors, and monthly shipments from the USDA and the Good Shepherd Food Bank. Dave Maxcy is always ready to help with the large shipments. This intentional financial support and volunteer effort is integral to keeping GIFT operating.

The Five for Five Special Offerings of the United Church of Christ put our money to work nationally and internationally with Basic Support as a budgeted item in Our Church’s Wider Mission.

We also budget for Hope and Justice, Homeless Services of Aroostook, and Helping Hands for Warm and Safe Homes. In addition, there are always circumstances where people desperately need food or gas or emergency assistance. We have always been there, and there has always been money.

I just thought you should be informed about our time frame, our mission outreach, and concerns going into the new year. In a few days you will receive a letter from Ray Rice representing the Property and Finance Ministry of the Church. Please give it as much consideration as you or you and your family can.

With our collective support, our church home will continue to serve and flourish in the years ahead.

Thank you for your attention,

Calvin Hall, Church Moderator