Fr Benjamin reflects on 2021

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

The last year has been a time unlike any other… and not only because of COVID.

In the last year, our financial situation has changed dramatically. Generous bequests have added over $400,000 to the endowment, putting in back in the black for the first time in many years. The parish hall has a new rood, and interior repairs on the ceiling are underway. We have installed the first phase of a columbarium including pavers and landscaping. A security system has been ordered. In the last 12 months, over $100,000 above and beyond ordinary pledges has already been given for these projects. But a church is not an endowment, and it is not a building. A church is the people. For the last two years, people have been watching as the Vestry carefully developed financial controls for the future, and the Spirit has moved the hearts of many people to give. While we have been faithful, God has been lavish! 

In a similar way, this community has been a voice for the homeless since before I started as your priest. We have fielded teams for Community Table, we have volunteered at Beacon House, the non-food pantry has grown to serve around 50 families per month, we host a the Christmas toy drive, and our coffee hour has sometimes served as a warm spot for folks who didn’t quite “make it in time for Church.” All of these are wonderful and life-giving ministries that have earned us a place at the table with coalition that is working to solve this problem. The City of Eau Claire, Catholic Charities, Lutheran Social Services, Americore, and about a dozen other groups are working to reduce the root causes of homelessness in Eau Claire. The emergency warming shelter operating in 502 S. Farwell and the lives it has literally saved are the visible fruits of the conversation. 

Finally, we have a faithful cadre of families and young people who have stood by the church throughout this long season of COVID restrictions. From what I have seen, children have perhaps been most adversely impacted by the social restrictions that slow the spread of the virus. Children’s ministries which were just getting off the ground two years ago were put on hold, but are now being restarted. As with all things, our ministry to children needs people who are committed to sharing the story of God’s love that is written in Scripture, in the Sacraments, and in our lives with children. 

We need a handful of people who are willing to commit an hour or two each month to leading children’s worship during our. 9AM Sunday service. The kids are here, and the curriculum is in the office. Volunteers have already signed up for one Sunday a month, but we are looking for a few more people who love Jesus and love children who are willing to give their time. Are you willing to join this essential ministry? 

Humbly yours,
Benjamin+