Q Why is Memorial Lutheran Church and School doing another capital stewardship campaign?
A The previous campaign, which commenced in late-2006, resulted in major improvements to the church campus (e.g., new Fellowship Hall, Commons, Library and Classroom, Early Childhood Space, Youth Space, a Music Room, new Administrative Offices, and a new School Reception/Office), including a major expansion of the parking lot and new signage along Westheimer and Bering. But the campaign stopped short of addressing issues in the Sanctuary and in the 1987-vintage school building. In addition, it left the congregation with $2.6 million of long-term debt.
The need for improvement in the Sanctuary has only become more pressing, as our congregation has grown approximately 30 percent since 2006 and certain mechanical issues have become more pronounced (especially air conditioning systems and leaky roofs). And despite the clearing of berms and shrubbery along Westheimer in the last campaign, we still present a rather uninviting and ambiguous face to the thousands of people who pass daily. Hence our desire to add an exterior cross and stained glass element on the south-facing steeply-pitched roof.
Q What does the name “A Memorial for the People” mean?
A We read in Numbers 31:54 that the leaders of Israel brought gold to Moses recovered from the peoples they had defeated in battle. This was to be a “memorial for the people,” a sign that God had preserved them through challenging circumstances. In the same way our regular tithes, and our offerings to the capital campaign, are a reminder of God’s faithfulness to us in Christ.
Q What is A Memorial for the People about?
A Our congregation has been blessed with a vibrant school that proclaims Christ, a new facility where we can learn and serve together, and a sanctuary where we can gather to receive Christ’s gifts. This campaign will fund crucial repairs to the oldest part of our school building, retire $1 million dollars of debt on our new facility, and help renew our sanctuary space.
Q Aren’t there other ways to manage our debt?
A The payment of principal and interest places a strain on our operating budget, which could become materially worse when the interest rate begins to float in January, 2015. By paying down the note by $1,000,000 (from $2.6 million to $1.6 million), we estimate a savings of $77,000 on our annual principal and interest payments. It would also make the note easier to refinance if we decide to do so.
Most of us would like to see the operating budget used exclusively for program-related expenses associated with our Word and Sacrament ministry, our children and youth programs, our school, and our many programs for adults. We would also like to expand our missions budget. We look forward to discussing, as a congregation, what our priorities will be with respect to these now-available funds.
Q What is my role in A Memorial for the People?
A We are all called upon by the Lord to offer a portion of our income each week to help with the general work of the congregation. This campaign asks for us to give over and above that amount, as the Lord leads us, to accomplish the campaign’s three-fold goal.
Q How do I decide what to give to A Memorial for the People?
A Each week the bulletin has included a “prayer sheet” to guide us in our conversation with the Lord about what we ought to give. We encourage you to pray about the blessings you have received personally from the Lord, and how we have been blessed here at Memorial. Come to the home meetings and learn more about our congregation’s needs. Listen to the testimonies of congregational leaders. Then, as the Spirit prompts you, choose an amount you are willing to offer as “a Memorial for the People.”
Q Can I contribute other than with cash?
A The most common forms of contribution are cash (i.e., checks, electronic transfers, auto debits) and stock. To transfer shares of stock, members should first contact the Business Office. Other forms of contributions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Q When do I make a commitment to A Memorial for the People?
A All members will be given the opportunity of presenting their pledge to the Lord during worship on Easter Sunday, April 8th. A special Easter breakfast will be held from 9:45 to 10:45 between services that morning to celebrate the Lord’s work among us. We encourage you to attend and celebrate!
Q When should I start to bring my gifts for A Memorial for the People?
A The “firstfruits” of the campaign, our first contribution towards our pledges, will be received on Sunday, 29 April during worship.
Q Where will the congregation hold Divine Service during the sanctuary renovation?
A The Divine Service will be conducted in the Fellowship Hall.
Q Will there be a place so that fathers can attend to their toddlers and infants?
A The family restroom will be suitable to allow this fatherly task, and as is the case in the Commons, the new men’s restroom will have a fold-out changing table.
Q How will the repairs to the School gym affect its summer program?
A The repairs will have minimal impact to the school’ summer program; minor adjustment with schedules and venues should accommodate those involved.
