News

John's Views by Jacobs Creek Office
Making a Difference in 2010

Endings and beginnings present challenges and opportunities. The coming of a new year brings a sense of a fresh start, a clean slate, a renewed awareness and excitement of God at work in new ways in 2010. It is our hope and prayer that everything that we think, do and are in 2010 will make a difference in building up God’s Kingdom here on earth.

We begin the year at Laurelville with a new budget, shaped by our mission and ministry and approved by our Board of Directors. Each of you as readers, Association members, contributors, volunteers and participants have a part in establishing the budget and in making it work. We trust that all the seeds that are planted and nurtured here in this place will bear fruit that makes a difference this year and in the years to come and that the world will be a better place because of it.

We have goals and dreams for the new year that bring energy and a sense of purpose and accomplishment. These grow out of Laurelville’s mission and ministry of hospitality, holistic growth, faith development, and care and respect for all of creation. Some examples include:

• Witmarsum renovations are nearing completion, at which point it will utilized for personal retreats for pastors and their families.

• Meetinghouse renovations will begin this spring in order to make the restrooms handicap accessible.

• Two new programs are being offered this spring (read about Creation Care: Stewards of the Earth).

• We continue to explore new ways to serve our local Mt. Pleasant community as well as the broader Church.

• A campus improvement plan is being developed.

• An Advancement initiative to grow our Association Membership is in place and, along with that, a plan to eliminate our capital debt by year end of 2010.

• A young Kansas couple has committed to serving a year of voluntary service with us, and we are excited about the gifts they bring to our ministry.

Shalom,


John H. Denlinger
Executive Director