Stories are powerful. I've learned in preaching over the years that we often connect with stories and are moved by them in ways that we rarely are with facts. During the month of November, our Stewardship Committee is inviting us all to think about our stories. Our story of faith, and the story of why it is and what it is that we love about the Gilead Church. The theme for this year's Stewardship Campaign is appropriately "I Love to Tell the Story", which is based on the wonderful hymn with that title. On three Sundays in November (November 9th, 16th and 23rd), we will be hearing during worship from three members of our church as they share their personal testimony and story.

What is the story that you love to tell about the Gilead Church? The story I love to tell about the Gilead Church is that we are a community of faith where all are welcome and where we are not afraid to step out in faith and take risks. Ten years ago, you took a risk by calling me as your first settled woman pastor. About four years ago now, we took another risk as we followed a vision to build an addition on our church. Just last year, we made the decision to risk trying two worship services. I love to tell the story of the Gilead Church because we are a church that is open to the still speaking God. We know that God is still alive and active in our world, and that God is not done with us yet!

During the month of November, you will also be invited to consider your pledge, what you will give, to the Gilead Church in 2009. Sure, we could share with you all of the numbers. The numbers on how our membership has doubled in the past 10 years. The numbers on how our Sunday School and Youth Group has grown. The numbers on our just completed $1.4 million dollar building project. The numbers on how many outside groups now make use of our space. We could tell you about all of missions and ministries beyond our church doors that our church supports. We could also tell you that our budget for 2009 is anticipated to increase by 11.2 % because of the increased costs associated with our new building and the mortgage. What is most compelling, however is your story. I hope you will take some time to reflect on it in the month ahead while you also consider what you will give.

I love to tell the story of the Gilead Church! What is your story?