Announcing Our Ministry Support Matching Campaign

You may recall that when we approved our 2025 budget at the annual meeting in February, many ministries took substantial budget cuts. Outreach, children’s ministry, and youth ministry were among those most affected, with an overall budget reduction of $24,692. At the time, we mentioned that we would need to raise more funding in order to maintain our current level of service to our community. The council is pleased to announce a plan to do just that, and we need your help.

Earlier this year, St. Mark received a generous bequest from the estate of Ulla Kercher, in the amount of $10,000. Many of you may remember Ulla, who was a longtime worshipper at our 11:00am services. Even as her health declined, she made it to a number of outdoor services last summer. She supported our music ministries with her presence, kind words, and generosity.  On top of that, Ulla often gave special offerings for specific ministries­– including outreach, youth ministries, and Vacation Bible School.

Around the time we received Ulla’s bequest, an anonymous donor gave an additional $2,000 gift for children’s ministries, in response to this year’s budget cuts. We are so grateful for the generosity shown by Ulla and the anonymous donor. Their combined gift of $12,000 will go a long way toward funding some of our most essential ministries.

Here is where you come in. The council and pastors would like to challenge our congregation to match these generous gifts by raising an equal amount of $12,000. This will close the budget gap and ensure our outreach, children’s and youth ministries have the resources they need to share God’s love with our community. We ask that you prayerfully consider contributing to this matching challenge, so that our vital ministries have a total of $24,000 dedicated to cover budget shortfalls this year and beyond.

In recent years, we have had similar fundraisers in order to upgrade our electric sign and purchase new pianos for worship. Those campaigns proved to be incredibly successful, thanks to the generosity of many of our members. Because of those successes, we are confident that you will rise to this new challenge! Thank you for your continued support of the ministries of St. Mark Lutheran Church. Donate to the campaign here on Tithely. 

Peace,

Pastor Chad McKenna & Pastor Katrina Steingraeber