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Dear Friends in Christ,

In the season of life, we have peaks and valleys. We get to decide how we will approach each day – just get by or embrace the challenges. The same can be said of our relationship with God – do we wait on God or do we have an active faith. God provides for us in many ways. As we prepare for our annual stewardship campaign, we should reflect on how we approach life; on God’s presence in our lives; of the Joys of God’s love. We should focus on "Living in Abundance," our 2010 Stewardship Campaign theme.

As you know, Northside UMC traditionally bases the following year’s church programs, ministries and operating budget on the actual pledge commitments made by the congregation. Northside is a unique church in this regard. Instead of building the 2010 church program budget and then asking you to fund it, we will develop and build the budget based on what God moves you to pledge.

In the weeks leading up to Commitment Week, which begins October 25th, Dr. Watson will preach a series of sermons on "Living in Abundance." In these messages, Dr. Gil will remind us that an abundant life is more than worldly possessions. You can only "Live in Abundance" with God at the center of your life. An Abundant Life calls for embracing your God given gifts and sharing them with others.

  • October 4th — Living in Abundance, You are Appropriately Appreciative
  • October 11th — Living in Abundance, You are Confidently Committed
  • October 18th — Living in Abundance, You are Unselfishly Serving
  • October 25th — Living in Abundance, You are Gratefully Generous
  • November 1st — Living in Abundance, You are a Willful Witness

In 2009 we saw the results of focusing on growing our church campus. We opened the Faith and Arts Center to great success in the spring. The evidence of God’s love is visible in our new facilities, which are a direct result of your commitment to NUMC. God’s love should be apparent every day.

Each year, Dr. Watson and the Stewardship committee ask each of you to reflect and pray about your walk with our Father and your involvement at Northside. Please think about how your abundant life is meant to be shared with others as part of the Northside congregation.

I am the chair this year of the 2009 Stewardship Campaign, and Denis Duncan serves as Vice Chair. Rev. Jeanette Dickens and Dr. Gil Watson plus other staff and lay members complete the campaign committee. We ask for your continued prayers and support during another season in the life of the church. We thank you for all you do in the name of our Lord and Savior.

In Christ,

Spencer Patton
Chairperson