Plan to attend. For Annual Report and Zoom link, email Kim Bohley.
Special Letter from Deacon Bill
Dear Saint Matthew Family,
It has always been my hope that I would serve this congregation as long as God gave me the ability to rise every day and do so. Assuming of course that you also wanted the same thing. However, over the last couple of years I’ve observed the changing landscape in religious institutions here in our community and across the NJ Synod. And the COVID-19 pandemic has certainly made its presence felt.
I am blessed that for the past ten months my fellow staff members and I have been fully compensated for our ministry among you. For that, I am most grateful. In the grasp of this pandemic, it has certainly been a challenging – yet also rewarding time.
However, as we approach this year’s annual meeting where the budget (spending plan) is proposed for approval, I’ve recently learned that the level of financial pledging is not sufficient to sustain a budget which includes both a full time Pastor and Deacon (Parish Coordinator).
When Pastor Eric first joined us in September, I imagined the day would come when budget sustainability would be a challenge. However, I had hoped I would be able to provide our new shepherd with the voice of experience and institutional memory as we wended our way through an entire church year; to lend insight to our traditions and methods so to speak. The thought of retiring in February 2022 briefly crossed my mind – but I dismissed it as a fleeting thought.
However, in light of current circumstances my remaining through this year is not feasible. This means that for the sake of the congregation I have needed to move forward my retirement plans. Nevertheless, I am pleased to say that we have formulated a compromise plan which permits me to continue serving full time through the end of February, then half time from March through the end of June – with stepping aside effective July 1st.The current budget proposal reflects that plan.
I thank God for allowing me to serve in this place. I am most certainly blessed! Doreen and I plan to continue to be actively involved here in this place.
Wishing you God’s peace,
Deacon Bill