November 16, 2025
Dear All,
Today we gather in your pledge cards which declare your financial commitment to the ministry of St. Paul’s in 2026. First, thank you! We hear much in the news lately about “affordability” – that more and more folks struggle to afford the basic necessities of life. I’m stunned every time I buy groceries. There are many who must make a monthly choice between food or their medications. You have many, many choices on what to spend your funds. I’m forever grateful that you choose to give to St. Paul’s.
Of course, the financial challenge for us is the building. And just like our homes, as it ages it needs regular maintenance and repairs. One of the major differences between the two, however, are the materials of which these dwellings are constructed. Our homes are wood and concrete and perhaps aluminum. St. Paul’s is stone and more stone and more stone with some wood and a little bit of steel roof thrown in. When St. Paul’s was built, there was no reason to be concerned about environmental factors such as acid rain. We never knew that car emissions would effect the ozone layer which would eventually let in more heat from the sun. No, St. Paul’s was built with the best materials and the best minds of that time.
It is a privilege and an honor for St. Paul’s to sit across from the Capitol. Hopefully we are a reminder to all who work in that building that God is present – in our lives, our work, our streets and in the hallways of government. I am tickled that we happen to be Episcopalians – a faith tradition known for its care of the ‘other’. Perhaps we can be a reminder to government of the many who are in need of assistance. Perhaps our search for social justice – for equality of all – for equal opportunities in education and work.
So with all of that, it means we have an obligation to maintain this structure to the best of our abilities. I wish I could have been around when the congregation was discussing the construction of this building. I do know there was a bit of a fight over its design. It required much dedication and financial resources to build such an edifice as St. Paul’s. It requires the same from us – dedication and financial resources so that future folks can share in what we have enjoyed.
Now . . . don’t forget your prayers. In particular prayers of thanksgiving – for the end of the government shut-down – for family and friends – for St. Paul’s building and its people – for sun and warmth and God’s never-ending presence. Let us also pray for those who are struggling, those whose holidays will begin with one less person at the table this year. I’m mindful of the many refugees and immigrants who may be spending the holidays in holding cells. Let us also pray for ourselves – for health, joy, and balance.
Blessings to you and yours,
Karen+