And are we yet alive? That question is the title of a Charles Wesley hymn, #553 in our hymnal.
My answer to the inquiry is, “Platte Woods United Methodist Church is indeed alive!”
I am made aware of our aliveness almost every morning and afternoon as the Sunbeam children with their parents in tow report for class, and as the Parents Day Out children begin their time at the church.
I was made aware of our aliveness this past Tuesday evening as some 300 women attended the Christmas Tea. Participating as a server for the event, I got caught up in the grandness of the evening.
I was made aware of our aliveness last night at the Wednesday at the Woods and the Gingerbread House Auction. Having crafted one of the houses, I held my breath that somebody would bid on my creation. Thanks to the kind souls who so bid! By the way we served dinner to 158 folks with the auction raising some $1,600 for the kitchen.
I was made aware of our aliveness in the latest reporting of pledged support for the 2009 church budget. As of this morning we have received $1,008,142 of pledged support in 282 pledges. This is some $81,500 more in support and 10 more pledges than for this year. What is most impressive to me is the 83 new pledges we have received.
I was made aware of our aliveness in the end of November statistics. Our average worship attendance for the year stands at 793, compared to 772 in 2007, up 21 folks (almost 3%). Support of the church budget through the end of November totals $1,337,668, compared to $1,205,550 in 2007, up $132,118 (almost 11%).
And are we yet alive? My answer to the inquiry is, “Platte Woods United Methodist Church is indeed alive!” Thanks be to God for the vitality and energy of our community of faith!
