Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, to those who have turned in their pledge card! The cards we have received represent an increase of $212,535 over those same pledges for this year. Of course not everyone was able to increase and some had to decrease, which is understandable in these economic times. The important thing is for everyone to make their commitment so we can move forward and do those things God is calling us to do. It does look like we'll need some help calling those from whom we have not received any communication about their commitment. If you can help, please let me know.

Your choir, your Walk Through Bethlehem Team, and your staff have been busy preparing for the Advent season, which is to begin November 30 with "The Hanging of the Greens" at 4:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Advent is a wonderful time to introduce neighbors and friends to the life of John Wesley UMC. I hope you will be inviting of others to experience the joy of the season with us. Special bookmarks with event invitations are available for you to share with others. Please help us extend graceful invitations to our neighbors.

Finally our annual Charge Conference will be at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary on December 9th. We will elect our church leaders and hopefully set our budget and conduct other business related to our congregational life. Everyone is invited and encouraged to attend.

Grace and peace,
Jim