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Q & A ABOUT MIRACLE SUNDAY

 WHEN IS MIRACLE SUNDAY?

Sunday, May 23, 2010

 WHAT IS MIRACLE SUNDAY?

 This is an opportunity for us as the body of Christ to come together on one day to raise necessary funds. Our goal is to raise at least $50,000.

WHY HAVE MIRACLE SUNDAY?

 There are several reasons why we are having Miracle Sunday.

 First, until a few years ago our distribution from the Foundation (presently $42,000 per year) was used for operating expenses. A few years ago, this congregation voted to divert those funds and to use them solely for debt reduction. The direct result of that was a decrease in the funds available for operating expenses. This year, the only way we are able to balance the budget is by using the Foundation. But, in order to do this we will need to have a Charge Conference to vote as a congregation to use Foundation for operating expenses. While we are blessed to have another trust which can be used to make most of our loan payments, it is important to continue using Foundation funds to pay more on our debt than is necessary so that we can get the debt paid off early. Our prayer is that on Miracle Sunday we will raise enough money in one day to balance the budget so we can continue putting Foundation funds toward debt reduction.

Second, we must make a small roof repair. While funds have been given for a new roof, those funds have been kept separate from other monies and cannot be used for this roof repair. Our prayer is that on Miracle Sunday we will raise the money to make that roof repair.

Third, we have been in the midst of a year long celebration of the 150^th Anniversary of our Church. We would like to give the Church a special birthday gift and it is our prayer that on Miracle Sunday we will raise the money to be able to give the Church a birthday gift.

CAN I MAKE A PLEDGE FOR MIRACLE SUNDAY?

            Although a pledge can be made at any time during the year and would help, Miracle Sunday is only for gifts of capital - cash, checks, securities, etc.

WHAT IF MY INCOME DOESN’T PERMIT ME TO MAKE A LARGE CAPITAL CONTRIBUTION ON MIRACLE SUNDAY? CAN I STILL PARTICIPATE?

 All gifts will be accepted, regardless of the size. Remember, every little bit helps!

I CANNOT BE IN CHURCH ON MIRACLE SUNDAY. CAN I STILL PARTICIPATE?

 Absolutely. The letter we sent to members and friends of First Church included a return envelope in the event anyone chose to mail their gift in or knew they could not be at church on May 23, 2010, but wished to donate to Miracle Sunday.

I CAN’T FIND THE ENVELOPE THAT CAME WITH THE MIRACLE SUNDAY LETTER. WHAT SHOULD I DO?

 You have a several options: 1) you can use one of the normal giving envelopes you receive in the mail and mark it “Miracle Sunday”; 2) you can use an envelope in the pew and mark it “Miracle Sunday”; or 3) there will be special envelopes available on that day for your “Miracle Sunday” gift.

WHAT IS A MIRACLE?

 It is when the impossible happens.

 Miracles take place everyday. Sometimes they’re very subtle and quiet, sweeping in like a touch on the face. Other times, it’s very evident and public. It doesn’t matter who you are, miracles can happen to anyone.

 Why do miracles take place? It may be that God wants your attention!

When you believe in God, you gain an awareness of Him. You see everything in a new light. He shows His great power through the trials and tribulations of life, through nature and science.

 God is in the impossible business. What is a miracle? Someone once said, “Coincidence is when God wants to remain anonymous.” Well, miracles are when God reveals Himself.