Father Mike Tess

In January, the new Bishop’s Committee met twice. We met on a Sunday afternoon to goal set and do some strategic planning. We then met the next day on Monday for our monthly meeting. I continue to be impressed with the faith, professionalism and commitment of our leadership.

Our two goals for 2012 are: to strengthen our new member incorporation, continuing to strengthen our welcoming of visitors and following up with members who haven’t attended in a while; and to strengthen our financial footing and educate and grow our understanding of stewardship. These are solid goals that are essential to our success and survival as a church community. The next day we wrestled with our 2012 budget. It was a very faith filled and powerful discussion as we looked at a $24,000 deficit budget and found ways to tighten and generate extra income, finally passing a deficit budget of $15,000. It will be another tight year, but I expect God to be creative with us and I think this will be another break through year for us.

I was visiting my friend Pastor Harold Rayford at Faith Hope and Love at their new church building. He has signs on the door that reads “Let’s go 12-0”. He said that’s for winning every month this year: spiritually, physically, emotionally, and financially. I really like that. Last year we went 11-1. We paid all our bills and had a great year spiritually and educationally. The only bills left unpaid were two months assessment to the diocese. 11-1 is a great record, but I think the goal for this year needs to be 12-0. Together, let’s win every month faithfully, prayerfully, maturely and as good stewards. We are already 1-0 and heading strongly into February.

I can tell you one change over last year which was one of my goals. We have a better 1^st quarter plan. We as leadership are more organized and we have several income initiatives planned including the renewal of our newsletter ads and the Valentine’s Date Night. Our stewardship goal committee is working on a presentation on planned giving and estate planning. The welcoming and incorporation goal committee is making plans to do a better job of contacting and inviting guests and new members. It has long been my goal to have a plan in place to hit the ground running in the new year and I feel like we are doing that.   I am excited for the coming year. I think 2012 is going to be awesome for us as a church family. Let’s win every month and let do it with God together.

Stay warm and God bless,
Father Mike