Dear New Lifer:
As we near the end of 2022, I am overjoyed to see the life that is taking place in our community. We have seen a steady resurgence of activity in many parts of our church family, and when I think about this season of our life together, the book of Haggai comes to mind. In the Old Testament, the people of God experienced seasons of exile and return; disruption and calm. We have journeyed through a similar path.
In large part, 2020 was a year of death and desolation. 2021 was a year of slow recovery and plenty of uncertainty. 2022 has been a year of restoration and returning. We continue to grieve the losses of the past few years, yet, we hold on to the hope found in God’s presence. As we continue to return, we have some opportunities to restore some of the places in our community and build for the future.
In the book of Haggai, after years in exile, the people of God returned to a land that had seen significant damage. The temple was in ruins, and the spirit of the community had been wounded. But in their return, the Lord instructed them to give attention to the rebuilding of the temple, and to the resurgence of worship and community building.
Our exile is not exactly the same as what was experienced in the book of Haggai, but we know what it means to be in a “foreign land”––even in our own neighborhood. The disruption the world has experienced has pulled us away from what was familiar. Yet, we return, and with hope. But our return and rebuilding will require everyone’s participation.
We are looking to rebuild ministries, continue the work of restoring our building in Elmhurst, and seek a new place of worship for our vibrant, growing congregation in Long Island. We are seeking to strengthen our New Life Community Development Corporation (New Life CDC) and to further nurture the work that’s happening through Emotionally Healthy Discipleship.
In the coming year, we have three big objectives:
- To continue to strengthen our congregation in Elmhurst and Long Island by resourcing
the ministries that fuel our mission (NextGen, Community Life, Sunday Worship, etc) - To further support our new congregation, New Life East, as we look for a new facility for
worship and mission. - To support the local and global ministry taking place through our New Life CDC, and through Emotionally Healthy Discipleship.
This year’s goal is to reach $550,000 by December 31, 2022. All donations made after Thanksgiving
will go towards this Christmas Offering. In the last two years, because of your generosity—in the midst of a pandemic no less—you faithfully gave, and we exceeded our goals. I am so thankful for your faithfulness. Here we are two years later with an opportunity to do the same!
Over the course of our thirty-five years, we have been a blessed church community. We have a committed and generous congregation, a wonderful staff team, wise and godly elders, and a strong sense of who God has called us to be.
Please review the details within for more about our vision and ways to give. Then, pray and ask God how you are to participate. The potential impact on thousands of lives is very exciting!
In prayer and partnership,
Pastor Rich