Letter from the President

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Letter from the President.......................................2 Agenda & MLST Status............................................4 Staff Structure..........................................................5 Church Snapshot.....................................................6 Communication Touchpoints................................6 Preschool Snapshot................................................7 Financials..................................................................8 Capital Campaign..................................................10 2021 Minutes.........................................................11

Dear Friends,

It is always important to reflect on our mission and vision, especially during changing or difficult times. We have been blessed at Abiding Hope with a clear mission and vision for today and for times to come. Please join me in thanking our leaders and servants who chose to give of themselves, despite the obvious challenges we have all witnessed in recent times.

As we stayed diligent and focused on our mission and vision, God provided unique and influential ways for us to be the heart, hands, and feet of Jesus. The leaders of Abiding Hope have remained courageous and open-minded to this message. There are several exciting and impactful ministries that have either started or expanded this past year.

We have fulfilled our vision of providing a safe and inclusive environment for all children who are served by our preschool and kindergarten. We have expanded the ministry through the opening of the Abiding Hope Nature School. It is very evident the love and passion we have for the children of our community. “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” Matthew 25:40

The energy and impact of our children goes far beyond our schools. Our Family Life ministry has continued to grow and find unique ways to include the entire family. We are very grateful for the Family Life Center facility remodel to allow us the space to engage and grow together. It is truly unique to have such gifted leaders with a vision for the entire family. We continue to find new and exciting ways to include all our youth and meet them where they feel most appreciated.

We recognize the needs of all our Abiding Hope community. We have been blessed to have identified a candidate of choice through our call process for a Lead Servant for Spiritual Life. Pastor Julie McNitt and her family have been such a living example of who we strive to be at Abiding Hope. It was never acceptable simply to fill a position during the process, but rather to stay diligent to our mission and vision until the right person came to light. Thank you to our Call Team servants who stayed the course and brought us Pastor Julie! 2

Our worship has also evolved over the past few years. What seemed like an overwhelming issue a few years ago has grown into increased opportunities to serve and to share the message. We are growing into a very special ministry through Digital Worship. We grew during the pandemic because of the amazing talent of our leaders and servants in this area. It became obvious as we began to worship in person just how important it was to continue in both areas. We now celebrate that Glenn Hecox will move into the role of Lead Servant for Digital Life while Kim Gnagey will move into the role of Lead Servant for Worship Life.

You should have noticed a new look to our logo and messaging. This was done to reflect who we are as a congregation and to reflect our mission and vision. More importantly, this was done through collaborating with who we serve. I am very grateful for the staff and leaders who’ve done such amazing work in expressing who we are through multiple mediums.

Finally, in order to purchase the property for the Nature School and to make some very needed upgrades to our facility at Coal Mine and Simms, we will be conducting a capital appeal in early 2023. Much more will be communicated about this upcoming appeal. Please be in prayer for how you and your family are being called to participate in this very important appeal. None of us can do much alone, but when we come together, the Holy Spirit can do amazing things through us.

We continue to hear the cry for mercy and for assistance from our family around the world and right here at home. Please consider leaning in further to becoming the heart, hands, and feet of Jesus in the world. There will always be someone that your gifts and talents can be a blessing for. My challenge to all is to be generous in all that you do and truly become the heart, hands, and feet of Jesus for all!

The future is bright for Abiding Hope Church and there has never been a better time to be generous with your time, talents, or treasures. All means All and we love each of you. It has been a pleasure to have served as congregational president these past three years. Thank you and God Bless.

Christian Holgard, Congregation President