We ought to all be CONNECTED by now. The letter from the minister along with the schedule of events for the Annual Budget Drive have been mailed and should have been received. I have reprinted here the E-Z use instructions for making connections and having some fun while pledging.

In our efforts to meet the church community's various desires for the next and future years, we ask for additional support in pledges this year over last year.

"WHAT FOR?" you may shout. Some will ask "HOW MUCH?" Really though, these aren't questions I hear so much anymore. As our connections with each other have grown, matured, and strengthened over the past few years, we have a healthier approach to pledging. The Finance Committee and Board have worked together to come up with a pledge goal that will meet the desires of our congregation. That goal is $150,000. Last year's goal was $125,000. We are seeking a $25,000 increase this year. There are several reasons why we are needing this leap this year. It is important to be informed and educated about the what and why.

This fellowship has made the basic commitment to be a Fair Share Church. We compensate staff as we ourselves would expect to be compensated. We are not there yet, but we will continue to step toward that goal. Part of the increased pledge goal is to give a 5% increase in the compensation package for the Office Manager. We will not be giving a raise to the minister this year, unless pledges far exceed our expectations.

We have been served well by our Religious Education coordinator. In order to continue the quality education that we are so proud of, we need to increase her time. In Sara we have, once more, brought in an incredibly talented person with amazing skills that are greatly needed by RE to help our superb teachers. Our board has wisely asked to increase her from a quarter-time to a half-time RE Coordinator. As such, we will be providing additional compensation beyond salary. The increase will be approximatly $9,000 because It is not just a matter of doubling the amount we already pay her. Half time employment brings with it additional responsibilities our congregation, as an employer, must address. More information about this can be obtained from our Board members.

Come to an event, talk to Board and Finance Committee members, seek greater understanding about the workings of the church. Also, come have some fun with us. Below is the "Reminder " for the events. I'll see you there.

Refrigerator Reminder

The E-Z steps to filling out and returning your Annual Budget Drive Pledge form:

1. Come to an event:

◦ Saturday May 3rd, 2 – 4 pm—The Elegant and Discreet Tea in the Parish Hall

◦ Saturday May 10th, 4 – 7 pm—The Loud and Messy Ice Cream Social outside the Annex

◦ Friday May 23rd, 6 – 10 pm—The Drive-In: curb-side service to complete your pledge form and pick up snacks as you head out of town for the holiday weekend, or stay for an Outdoor Movie and Popcorn at the church

2. Receive your pledge form and fill it in. Assistance will be provided if needed.

3. Enjoy the community fun and build connections.

In Love and Service,

Nick "Connections" Williams