Few things feed my soul like writing thank-you notes.
Of course, the act of expressing gratitude is itself a source of grace. But then, when I am able to set aside a bit of time in order, not just to say “thanks,” but to write it down, to sit in my imagination with the person whom I’m thanking, it’s almost as if the gift has been given to me a second time.
This is one of the great pleasures of serving a church. We may have different words for it—be that stewardship, development, philanthropy, or fundraising—but it all means the same thing: we invite one another to journey ever further on the path of generosity and gratitude, a path on which we meet God and serve our neighbor. I have a great opportunity to write a word of thanks to each person who makes a pledge to our annual campaign, and I cannot tell you how many times that simple act has surprised me with a sense of quiet joy, and sometimes turned my whole day around.
Just this week, I had the chance to experience this gratitude once more when the congregation of Trinity Cathedral reached—and then surpassed—our pledge goal of $430,000 for the year. This past fall, our stewardship committee and vestry issued a challenge goal, encouraging us all to grow in our giving so that Trinity can carry out the ministry to which God calls us. You responded! You responded faithfully, enthusiastically, and abundantly.
I want to say, simply, thank you. I want to say that because it feels good to offer gratitude! But I also want you to share in the sense of abundance and joy that I feel and experience in the enthusiasm for Trinity’s ministry that you have shared through your generosity.
Our theme this year was Growing and Giving, and Trinity has responded by doing both. I give thanks to God for the faithful, generous, and passionate community of Trinity Cathedral.
Faithfully,
