“Jesus said, ‘Forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.’”

— Luke 6:37b–38

September 28, 2023

Friends,

What a weekend! Even though the events of Martyrs’ Weekend are firmly in the rearview mirror, I remain enthused and energized by the outpouring of creativity, the hours of dedication, and the spirit of celebration we experienced so recently.

In a word: Wow!

We proved that St. Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral is alive and well — certainly willing and more than able to dream big and to accomplish even more. Below is a quick summary of the events, and the numbers, of Martyrs’ Weekend:

So now the question I have for you is: what’s next?

Please keep scrolling to read my thoughts on that very question…

The renewal of our Cathedral building is reflected — even magnified — by the renewal of our Cathedral family. I see this reflected in the smiles, laughter, friendship, and positive energy revealed in our common life of worship, study, and service.

God’s blessings abound here at St. Mary’s. As the psalmist once wrote, truly our “cup runneth over.” How we shall we respond to such abundance?

My giving recognizes that God has blessed me deeply and profoundly in so many ways in my service as your Interim Dean, a position which has brought me both challenge and deep joy.

I give not only because of my gratitude for God’s abundance but also because it is God’s call for me to support the work of the church in all the ways I can. We are all called to love both God and neighbor; our church provides an excellent opportunity for doing both.

“How shall I repay the Lord for all the good things he has done for me?”

— Psalm 116:10

So here’s the challenge I bring you: how has God blessed you with abundance? And how will you express your gratitude and answer your call to support the work of the church as an expression of your love for God and your love for your neighbor?

For 2023, the Cathedral adopted a budget of just over $560,000 in expenses — but only $503,000 in income. This deficit spending is not only unsustainable but also fails to acknowledge the abundance of God’s blessings in our life. I invite you to consider anew how you can respond to God’s many blessings, and how you can share even more fully in the life and ministries of this, your great Cathedral.

Click the image above to get the 2024 Pledge Card.

You will note that our Pledge Card has two parts. The top half is for noting your financial commitment — information the Mission Council relies on in preparing a responsible budget. The bottom half lists ministry opportunities—additional ways you can support our common shared ministries here.

We will offer our 2024 pledges on

Renewal Sunday, October 8

as we bring them to the altar and pray God’s blessings on our renewed commitment to support the work and ministries of your amazing Cathedral. Please prayerfully consider your sacred commitment to God’s work when you make your pledge.