THE VISION: A WORD FROM MOTHER KIM

Dear St. Tim’s,

One of my favorite gospel stories is the feeding of the 5,000. After a long day of teaching a large crowd, Jesus receives a small offering from a child. He blesses, breaks and shares the loaves and fish, and the disciples distribute more than enough to satisfy.

Now, I believe in miracles.  I believe the God who raises the dead and calms storms can absolutely multiply food to feed thousands. And, I'm intrigued by an alternative interpretation: some scholars suggest that Jesus didn't use divine powers to magically make more, but that each person in the crowd, inspired by the child's generosity, was moved to offer their lunches as well. In the collective sharing of what each could give, the outpouring was more than enough.

This gospel is top of mind as I reflect on the outpouring of generosity towards St. Tim's Cultivating Courage, Connection & Care Capital Campaign. To date, 87 households have pledged what they can to renew our campus for the next chapter of ministry. Gifts have ranged from $250 to $1,000,000. It's hard to believe how much has changed since construction began in July:

• resurfacing and illuminating the parking lot, 

• resealing and repainting the exterior, 

• installing a comprehensive HVAC system, 

• making the altar moveable to host more musical performances

• remodeling the balcony for wiggle friendly seating

• upgrading the A/V system, and 

• repainting, reflooring, reupholstering, and relighting the upper level. 

With phases 1-3 near completion, we are preparing to renew the lower level this summer. The enclosed materials convey the vision and the purpose. As we strive for the finish line, I ask you to join me and the nearly one hundred households that have already pledged to the campaign. You have witnessed the transformation of the upstairs; imagine its completion downstairs.

Early commitments to this phase already reach 60% of the total needed: $360,000 is pledged of the $600,000 cost. Share with us in this work of restoring and improving our beloved spiritual home for the next chapter of worship, connection and care. Gifts of all amounts are welcome and deeply appreciated. Please consider making a twelve month commitment to maximize impact. Visit sttims.net/capital-campaign to learn more, submit an online pledge, and stay current as fundraising and improvements progress.

Grace and peace,

The Rev. Kim Seidman

Rector