The reason that I chose to pledge to St. James’ is out of gratitude. St. James’ has been a part of my entire life and I believe it is a big part of how I became the person I am today (the good parts and the bad). When our family faced difficult times and my mom was left to raise three boys, St. James’ became our main source of support and comfort. The love shown to my mom and us boys gave us the realization and strength to know that we would be ok.
Becky and I are going through a slight “budget adjustment” but pledging to St. James’ is not being considered for any cutback. We plan to increase our pledge – however modestly – as our income decreases and hopefully our expenses as well. When Becky retires we hope to tithe, even if the amount is less.
I was raised to believe that the reason I was placed on the earth was to make the world a better place by the time I left. Being a parishioner at St. James’ provides the perfect opportunity to fulfill that goal. There are many opportunities to become involved in any number of missions at St. James’, but some require financial support (apart from keeping the lights on and a roof over our heads).
I feel I am on a journey with all of you that began over 2000 years ago and part of my gratitude is given to those who took part in and contributed so that we could participate and contribute to those yet to come who will continue on this journal until God’s ultimate promise to us comes true.
My last thought on sharing of my blessings and treasure comes from my favorite baseball announcer, Mike Krukow, who asked during a broadcast, “When was the last time you saw a hearse towing a U-Haul trailer?”
~Scott Whitaker