N N U L R E P O R T 2 0 2 4 E S T M I N S T E R P R E S B Y E R I N
ANNUAL REPORT 2024
AYEARINREVIEW
A Letter from Your Pastor
DearEastminsterFamily,
"OGodourhelpinagespast,ourhopeforyearsto come,ourshelterfromthestormyblastandour eternalhome."
Inthetwo-thousandyearssinceJesuswalkedtheearth,the507yearssince MartinLuthernailedthe95ThesestothedooroftheWittenbergChurch,andthe 71yearssinceEastminsterwaschartered,theworldhasseenmind-boggling change.Andyettworealitieshavebeenconstant.Thefirstishumanity'sneedfor aSavior;ourneedforhope.ThesecondrealityisGod'sunrelentingdesireto showusthemoreexcellentwayoflove,graceandjusticeexperiencedmost profoundlyinJesusChrist.
Asyoureadthepagesthatfollow,Iprayyouwillseeeverystory,everyperson named,everypersonpictured,everydatapointlisted,everyministryand missiondescribed,andevenallthemembersofthischurchnotnamed,asseeds. Seedspackedwithlife.Seedsburstingopenwithnewlife.Seedsbearingthefruit ofbeautyandbounty.Seedsproducingfaith,hopeandlove.Seedsillustratingthe inbreakingoftheKingdomofGod.
Evenasyouseetheseeds,Ipray youwillcelebratethebreadthanddepthof Christ’sworkinourmidst.Thankyoutoeachandeveryoneofyoufor respondingtoGod’sgraciousinitiativetowardusbyworshiping,servingand followingourlivingLord,Father,SonandHolySpirit,righthereandrightnow!I amhonoredtobeyourpastor.
Gratefully,
Rev.Dr.BradSmith,SeniorPastor
“Beforethehillsinorderstood,orearthreceivedherframe,Fromeverlasting youareGod,Toendlessyearsthesame.”
EASTMINSTER STAFF
Pastors & Program Staff
Dr. Bradley D. Smith, Senior Pastor & Head of Staff
Dr. Douglass D. Key, Sr. Associate Pastor of NED & Administration
Rev. Emily Mooneyhan, Associate Pastor for Congregational Care
Rev. Croskeys Royall, Associate Pastor for Children and Their Families
Dr. Ben Sloan, Parish Associate for Membership and Outreach & MSB
Dr. Carol Byrd, Parish Associate for Congregational Care
Rev. Rob Schoonover, Associate Pastor for High School Youth and Younger Adults
Blythe Lewis, Sr. Officer of Communications
James Cassidy, Director of AV
Ryan Holcombe, Communications Specialist
Caroline Bennett, Director of Small Groups & Librarian
Emily Higgins, Director of Middle School Youth
Stanley Holland, Director of CHAMPS (Part-Time)
Andrea Ferree, Director of ACCESS Ministries (Part-Time)
Kristy Stoneburner & Stefanie Hammond, Membership & Outreach (Part-Time)
Support Staff
Julie McDaniel, Executive Assistant to Senior Pastor
Kelsey Smith, Digital Content Creator
Sound Technicians (Part-Time): Nicholas Beitz, Walker Bell, Jay Lesesne, Anna Claire McCain & Sophie Verzyl
Janice Blair, Administrative Assistant for NED & Administration
Kelly McGrady, Administrative Assistant for Congregational Care & MSB
Vacant, Drop-In Nursery Coordinator (Part-Time)
Lauren Halter, Congregational Childcare Coordinator (Part-Time)
Worship & Music
Fredna Lee, Director of Music (Part-Time)
Dr. Augie Gil, Director of Worship & Arts
Louis Shirer, Organist and Worship & Arts Administrator
Vacant, Jubilee Worship Leader
Chelse Lawson, Director of Handbells (Part-Time)
Stefanie Hammond, Director of Children’s Music Ministry (Part-Time) Administration
Alisha Hudson, Executive Director of Finance & Administrative Services
Kelly Fernet, Administrative Assistant for Finance & Administrative Services
Christy Rippy, Treasurer
Leslie Swain, Financial Assistant
Regina Jeffcoat, Director of Food Services (Part-Time)
Chris Dixon, Hannah McLamb, Maryann Santiago & Damiah Tobias, Kitchen Assistants (Part-Time)
Sally McWilliams, Betty Gilbert, & Alison McGowan, Wedding Directors (Part-Time) Facilities
Alex Rogers, Director of Plant Operations
Tony Taylor, Senior Maintenance Technician
Vicki Wilson, PM Sexton Supervisor
Ron McCollough (Full-Time), Felicia Bibbs, Levi Burch, Sammy Cullen, Sonya McIntosh, Lamar O'Neil, Linda Walker, Ben Wharley & Thomas Wingard, Maintenance Technicians (Part-Time)
Christian Life Center (CLC)
Emmet Hough, Director
Meredith Dreibelbis, Tony Dukes, Susan Faulk, Ryan Marshall & Robert Tighe (Part-Time)
Eastminster Day School (EDS)
Katie Herndon, Director
Rachael Wright Everett & Lane Flowers, Assistant Directors
YEAR-END MEMBERSHIP REPORT
Jenni Asman
Ted Autterson
Marcia Autterson
Cliff Ballew
Elizabeth Ballew
Julian Barber
Sydney Bell
Molly Blackwelder
McClellan Boykin
Marcus Bradley, III
Parker Branham
Boyd Brown
Lee Brown
Sawyer Cannon
Ainsley Carrington
Caroline Chester
Barbara Covington
Jo Crosby
Johnny Crosby
Virginia Cruea
Brian Cunningham
McCall Daves
Reid Denemark
Andrew Dennis
Judy Doty
David Doty
Carolyn Dunlap
NEW MEMBERS IN 2024
Roy Dunlap, Jr
Donald Fawcett
Colin Fitzgerald
Ella Foley
Patrick Frentz
Tyler Garvin
Laura Garvin
Lyla George
Madden George
Quinn Hall
Davis Herndon
Liv Homewood
Chad Howard
Dupre Hungerpiller
Virginia Hungerpiller
Buddy Jennings
Janet Jennings
Wilkins Johnson
Catherine Jowers
Nicole Kittrell
Ben Kittrell, Jr.
Parker Kloskey
John Kososki
Carol Kososki
Emily Lansche
Alden Livingston
Sarah Livingston
Blake Loggins
Logan Loggins
Harrison Long
Stephen Longaker
Lee Longaker
Alex Magargle
Virginia Mann
Kathy Marsha
Price McCaskill
Brittany McCaskill
Ben McDougald
Kinley McDougald
Patrick McLean
Mac McWilliams, IV
Nate Moise
Charlotte Mood
Elle Pooser
Brooks Rhame
Jack Robertson
Madison Robertson
Lauren Robinson
Jackson Ross
Michael Rothenberg
Dinah Rutland
Bill Salisbury
Ellison Sansbury
James Schultz
Lauren Schultz
Rachel Scott
Lauren Sharpe
David Sharpe
Leah Shumpert
Austin Shumpert
Wilkes Smith
Lucy Stallworth
Dalton Stursberg
Dani Sullivan
Patrick Sullivan
John Thompson
Charli Tillery
Jake Tillery
Lillie Turner
Mary Cameron Turner
Courtney Ulmer
Emily Walker
Jeff Walker
Jake Wehman, Jr
Jean Weingarth
Jack Wilson, V
Reese Wingo
Justin Workman
Miranda Workman
MEMBER MILESTONES 2024
BIRTHS IN 2024
Eleanor Kate Al Baldawi
Merrill Louise Beard
William Mark Bowman
Virginia Campbell Byars
Sterling Carson Carter
Mark Dale "Tripp" Chappell, III
Emma Louise Green
Fordham "Ford" Wardlaw Hammond
Charles Oliver "Charlie" Hines
Elizabeth Lucas "Lucy" Huffstetler
Grady Hutchinson Kay
Cordes Baxter Kennedy
Dorothy Susan "Dottie" Kilpatrick
Everett Ford Lea Law
Theodore Lawrence "Teddy" Mac Adams
Luke Harden McCants
Margaret Helen "Mae" McLean
Sloane Sweet Mothena
Clayton Timothy Murrell
Graves Kenneth Potter
Stanley Andy Richards
John Wilson Schultz
Jack Leonard "Leo" Springs, IV
Barrett Riley Strasburger
Ann Stratton Townsend
Allen Nathaniel "AJ" Wilkerson Jr.
Caulder Alexander Winkles
Sadie Grace Winterhalter
Emma Adelaide Wise
Jack William Wolfe
BAPTISMS IN 2024
Duncan Wilbanks Moffat
Merrill Taite Moffat
Russell Burnett Daniel
Sloane Mabel Whalen
Annslee Katherine Murrell
Charlotte Julia Richards
Chandler Frances Richards
Clifford Prescott Young
Collins Carolyn Young
Eleanor Kate Al Baldawi
Adelaide Stewart Laffitte
Adelaide Ruth Herring
James McPhail Kennemur
Blair Rose Workman
Holden Lewis Salter
Everett Taylor Jones
Dorothy Susan Kilpatrick
Henry Boyd Brown
Theodore Lawrence Mac Adams
John Wilson Schultz
Allen Nathaniel Wilkerson, Jr.
William Mark Bowman
Merrill Louise Beard
Jack William Wolfe
Fordham Wardlaw Hammond
Luke Harden McCants
Charles Oliver Hines
Emma Louise Green
Sloan Sweet Mothena
Jack Leonard Springs, IV
WEDDINGS IN 2024
Landon Sawyer
Edwin Propst
January 20, 2024
*Arden Lee
John Riley
April 6, 2024
Margaret Anne Tighe
*Chad Howard
May 18, 2024
Cassidy Green
*Andrew Boyle
June 8, 2024
Alex Williams
Fred Hanna, Jr.
June 22, 2024
Lou Schraibman
*Billy Way
July 20, 2024
Mills Eaddy
*William Woods
October 19, 2024
Catherine Clyburn
Kip Beckwith, Jr.
November 15, 2024
Caroline Schraibman
Don Fawcett
November 23, 2024
*denotes non-member
INMEMORIAM
MEMBERSWHOJOINEDTHECHURCHTRIUMPHANTIN2024:
PierrineJohnson1/2/2024
GingerFoster1/25/2024
JackHupp1/30/2024
KathyMarsha2/8/2024
RichardOdiorne,Jr.2/12/2024
TammyBaldwin2/23/2024
ButchJones,Jr.3/26/2024
BartowGilbert4/7/2024
AnnSt.John5/27/2024
SaraLovingood5/29/2024
BrianBates,Sr.6/15/2024
JoyPadgett6/18/2024
CLASSOF2024
JasonBurbage
MadisonDye
LucieEggleston
*JaneFrancis
RobinGorman
HankMabry
BerryMattox
AnneSeabrook
CareyShackelford
FrankShuler
CLASSOF2024
KimAndrews
WillBrearley
PeytonBryant
MiriamCovar
DoloresLong
LeighPound
StephenSansbury
JohnShuford
CarolynStoddard
KathyWinterhalter
SusanHendricks7/2/2024
MargaretBrown8/1/2024
MarilynHupp8/4/2024
FayeJeffcoat8/25/2024
MaryBenton 8/30/2024
JerryFuller9/18/2024
AlecChaplin,Sr.10/9/2024
GeorgeShissias10/14/2024
EthelLowder10/25/2024
GeorgeJenkins,Jr.11/11/2024
HaroldLane12/2/2024
PeterGetz12/15/2024
WendleSnapp12/20/2024
ELECTEDELDERS:
CLASSOF2025
TiffanyBeitz
ConnieDerrick
LibFoster
BickHalligan
JudyHolmes
KevinO'Connell
NancyScott
BobStaton
JeffThordahl
PaulTrippe
CLASSOF2026
SamAgee
BeckyAirheart
EleanorBoyd
WillBrownlee
EmmaBryson
AndyCameron
JohnHart
JulieHudson
GeorgeKennedy
GeorgeMcCutchen
ELECTEDDEACONS:
CLASSOF2025
ParksBunch
ChesleyGood
AdamHegler
KarenHudgens
JayHudson
ZackHudson
GeorgeHutton
MaryMcCants
SimmonsPurdy
SusanRatteree
CLASSOF2026
SallieJameson
DarrenKnight
JoshLivingston
KathleenMuthig
LisaNewman
GeoffReabold
JoniRichardson
*RobertSimmons
RichardSlater
SandySpann
*completinganunexpiredterm
CLASSOF2027
JohnArnold
ElizabethBarber
AmyCain
RyanCausey
SarkDerderian
KatieEvatt
SusanneHicklin
HarrietKneece
MarionMoses
LauraTwitty
CLASSOF2027
ChadAbramson
DavidEllison
NateHenderson
MaryFrancesJowers
AustinRhodes
MattRiddle
LucyScoville
ClaySharpe
KrisWhiteside
SharonWilliams
2024 BENEVOLENCES
2024 BENEVOLENCES
FINANCE 2024 & 2023 COMPARISON
$0.00
FINANCE 2024 & 2025 BUDGET SUMMARY
WORSHIP&MUSIC
Mission:
Toworkwiththeclergy, Session,andchoirdirectorin creatingmeaningfulworship opportunitiesincludingSunday morningandJubileeworship servicesaswellasweddings, servicesinwitnesstothe resurrection,andotherworship occasions.
Leadership:
WorshipandMusicChair: JeffThordahl(2025) thordahl03@msn.com
EastminsterStaffSupport:
Dr.BradSmit h,FrednaLee, Dr.AugieGil&JulieMcDaniel
KEYACCOMPLISHMENTSIN2024:
WelcomedbackLouisShirerasourfulltimeorganist. Teamsofactiveandinactiveeldersservedhomecommuniontoallshut-inswho requestedit.
ProvidedformembersresidingatStillHopestohaveacommunionserviceon SundayswhencommunionisheldatEPC.
InconjunctionwithNED,supportedECAMPforchildrenonSundayevenings.
Establishedasubcommitteeofmembers,officersandstafftoevaluateallaspects oftheJubileeservice.
Continuedtotrainnewofficerstopreparethemfortheirdutiesinworship servicesandcommunionresponsibilities.
ImplementednewSundayfoodpolicyfortheParlor.
GOALSFOR2025:
Removethe$200organistfeeforallfunerals.
HostaContemporaryChristianBandConcertonthefieldtobenefitacharityand invitethecommunityonFriday,April11,2025at7:00PM.
HoldoneworshipserviceonthefieldonPalmSunday,April13,2025at10:15AM. AddmoreJubileeattendeestotheJubileesubcommitteetocontinueevaluating theJubileeServiceandimplementtherecommendationsofthiscommittee.
WORSHIP & MUSIC CANDIDS
ECUMENICAL&CHURCH RELATIONS
Mission:
Toincreaseourcommunityinvolvement withotherchurches,aswellasTrinity Presbytery.RepresentEPCatPresbytery meetings,serveonvariousministriesof Presbytery,andkeeptheSessioninformed ofopportunitiesandchallengesofthe denomination.
Leadership:
Ecumenical&ChurchRelationsChair: PaulTrippe(2025) pgtrippe@gmail .com
EastminsterStaffSupport:
Dr.DouglassKey&Rev.CroskeysRoyall
KEYACCOMPLISHMENTSIN2024:
AttendedthefourstatedmeetingsofTrinityPresbytery. ProvidedasubscriptiontoPresbyterianOutlookforeveryactiveelderand deacon.
IncreasedawarenessofEastminster'sparticipationindenominationalofferings andencouragedfurthersupportinthecongregation(asinThornwellandthe turkeybanks).
OfferedcontinuingeducationtoofficerswithapresentationbyDr.DouglassKey onhowanoverturegetstotheflooroftheGeneralAssembly. MonitoredthestatusoftheOlympiaOverture. EndorsedagifttoStillmanCollegefordormrenovation. EnrolledJamesBlackwelder,studentatAustinPresbyterianSeminary,asan InquirerunderthecareoftheSession.
EndorsedEastminster'shostingoftheFebruary15,2025meetingofTrinity Presbytery.
GOALSFOR2025:
AttendallstatedmeetingsofTrinityPresbytery(4meetings).
AssistinhostingtheFebruary15,2025StatedMeetingofTrinityPresbyteryat Eastminster.
ProvideanannualsubscriptiontoPresbyterianOutlookforallactiveeldersand deacons.
ECUMENICAL & CHURCH RELATIONS
GOALS FOR 2025:
Promote congregational awareness for the approved denominational offerings (Thornwell, Mother's Day and Presbyterian Communities, etc.).
Continue to monitor and report to the Session updates about the Olympia Overture, and address questions as they arise.
Offer at least one educational presentation at a joint meeting of the Session and Diaconate (similar to Douglass' presentation this year on how an overture gets to the floor of the General Assembly).
Have at least one ministry meeting that is not tied into the Presbytery calendar to brainstorm and consider other ways this ministry can be a positive bridge between the denomination and the officers.
EASTMINSTER DAYSCHOOL(EDS)
Mission: Toliveoutour baptismalvowsbyproviding highqualityChristian-based education,development,and careforyoungchildrenof EastminsterPresbyterian Churchandthecommunity.
Leadership: EDSChair: ConnieDerrick(2025) connied7087@gmail.com
EastminsterStaffSupport: Dr.DouglassKey KatieHernd on
KEYACCOMPLISHMENTSIN2024:
Anon-linesharedfolderwascreatedtostoreallpertinentEDSinformation. Asafetytintwasappliedtothehallwaywindowfacingtheprayergarden. Newwindowswithsafetytintonthecourtyardsideofthebuildingwere installed.
Scholarshipguidelines,proceduresandparentalapplicationwereupdated. Scholarshipsforfivechildreninthreefamilieswereawarded.
FinancingforinstallationoffencingalongLongleaftoimprovesafetywas approved.
GOALSFOR2025:
ReviewCovenantFamilyrequirementsandmakeanyneededrevisions. Exploreoptionstoimproveemployeeretention.
IncreaseEDSCommitteemembers’participation. Assistwiththedevelopmentofwrittenproceduresforallsafetydrills,including activeshooter.
Educatecommitteemembersofcurrentenrollmentprocedures. EncourageincreasedteacherusageofBrightWheeltoensureconsistencyacross thebuilding.
Increasehourlywageforpart-timeemployees.
Morelong-term :DevelopatimelineforpossibleEDSexpansiontomeetthe increasingnumberofinfantsthroughfour-year-oldenrollmentapplications.
EASTMINSTER DAY SCHOOL CANDIDS
SAFETY
Mission: To maintain and provide safety and security for all individuals who worship, serve, and attend all events hosted by Eastminster Presbyterian Church.
Leadership: SafetyCo-Chairs: ChesleyGood(2025) chesleygood@gmail.com DarrenKnight(2026) darrenknight45@hotmail.com
EastminsterStaffSupport: Rev.CroskeysRoyall, &AlishaHudson
KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN 2024:
Installed safety film around Day School and Drop-In Nursery; new windows around first floor of existing school purchased with protective film.
Met with head usher to discuss security protections and procedures as well as usher safety training.
Met with Cola PD and increased police presence at Sunday and special services from 1 to 2 officers.
Scheduled and conducted active shooter training for officers and staff, August 2014.
Developed and currently implementing security fencing, gates, fobs, and cameras to secure the Longleaf and Courtyard entrances. Along with Homeland Security, conducted a security assessment walkthrough and developed action items to make the campus more secure.
Conducted a fire drill in September 2024.
Started developing a safety policy to include active shooter procedure.
GOALS FOR 2025:
Develop a Civilian Response to Active Shooter Procedure.
Continue to resolve deficiencies identified in the 2024 security self-assessment. Conduct active shooter training.
Conduct a Sunday morning fire drill.
Study the potential to apply for a SLED/Homeland Security grant for a security upgrade.
Upgrade safety/security at the Jubilee service as needed.
PROPERTY
Mission: To maintain and develop Eastminster’s facilities and property as an important part of our vibrant ministry.
Leadership:
Property Co-Chairs:
Zack Hudson (2025) zack@cclogix.com
Parks Bunch (2025) parksbunch@gmail.com
Eastminster Staff Support: Alex Rogers & Alisha Hudson
KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN 2024:
Received approval of plan for courtyard renovation.
Began developing a master plan for the grounds of the campus.
Installed wells on campus as needed for irrigation.
Reviewed backup system and overall system for lighting in the Sanctuary.
Reviewed dividing a big room in the Sanctuary basement into two offices.
Started replacement of windows and doors in the Administration Building.
Replaced stained glass window in the Sanctuary.
GOALS FOR 2025:
Oversee the courtyard renovation through successful completion.
Repair mortar in front of Sanctuary and courtyard.
Investigate/resolve Sanctuary basement water intrusion (storm drains, moisture barrier).
Upgrade LED light fixture for EDS older hall and classrooms.
Repair/replace doors around campus, clean slate roof, restripe parking lots.
Upgrade courtyard landscape & necessary equipment to maintain landscape (artificial turf cleaning).
Repaint Thompson Hall/kitchen hallway and maintenance hallway.
STEWARDSHIP
Mission: Toeducate,encourage,and inspireourmembersabouttheprivilege, responsibility,and"joyofgiving"recognizingthatallweareandallwe havearegiftsfromGodentrustedtous sothatwemaybegood"stewards"for God'sglory.TheStewardshipMinistryhas theresponsibilityofencouragingfaithful stewardshipofourtime,talents,and treasures.
Leadership: StewardshipChair:
AdamHegler(2025) ajhegler@gmail.com
EastminsterStaffSupport:
Dr.Brad Smith,BlytheLewis& KellyFernet
KEYACCOMPLISHMENTSIN2024:
EngagedstewardshipconsultantandworkedwithaSmallGroupSubcommitteetoadvanceandsustainourstewardshipprocess.
Maintainedstewardshipbudgetforthefurthergrowthoftheministry. CreatedjobdescriptionfornewP/Temployeetoassistwithstewardship/ givinglogisticsandexecutestrategies.
Numberofpledgesincreased-aswellasfinancialsupportincreasedby approximately$300,000overtheprioryear.
GOALSFOR2025:
Developanindependentcampaigndedicatedtotimeandtalent.
CoordinatevolunteerdedicationSunday/service“fair”/spiritualgiftsassessment withtaggedopportunities.
WorkwithM&OtobridgegapbetweenFirstStepandactivememberdiscipleship.
Createaformalplaybookforstewardshipbaseduponrecommendationsfrom INJOYConsulting.
BeginimplementationofINJOYstewardshiprecommendations.
ContinuetoworkwithPersonnelCommitteetohireaP/Tdedicatedemployeefor stewardship.
Continuetotellstoriesaboutministrypartnerstoeducatecongregationof financialimpact.
STEWARDSHIP 2025
Mission to Glorify, A Story of Faithfulness
Peyton Bryant - Stewardship Chair
Ihaveaconfessiontomake. Iabsolutelylovefinancial stewardshipatEastminster; Ievenenthusiastically volunteeredtojointhis committee.Weareso blessedasachurch,and manymaywonder,"Why wouldweneedtodomore?
What'swrongwithwhatwehaveandwhereweare?”
Why?Because...
Eastminsterisuniquelypositionedtomakeaprofound impactonourcommunityandbeyond…toinfluencea worldwithGod'slovethatsodesperatelyneedsit.We, asachurch,areinapositiontotrulyglorifyGodinthe waythatwecommittoandcontinuetobeablessing,a blessingfortheexpansionofGod’sKingdom.
That'swhywe'reexcitedtoannouncethatPledge Seasonishere,culminatinginDedicationSundayon October27th.Thisisanopportunityforusto collectivelyconsiderhowwecanuseourtreasuresto furtherGod’sKingdom.
We'realsothrilledtosharethatwe'vepartneredwith INJOYStewardshipSolutionstoenhanceour stewardshipprocess.Theirexpertisewillhelpusbuilda
“...and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing… and all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” genesis 12:2
solidfoundationforthefuture.Together,we'llcreate asustainablesystemthathonorsGodandstrengthens ourcongregation.
We'veseenGod'sfaithfulnesstimeandagain.Butto continuethisincrediblejourney,weneedyour partnership.Itreallybeginsrightherewithyou,meand ourentirechurch.Thesumofourcollectivegivingis impactful.Ittakesallofustomaketheprofound impactwearecapableofasachurchfamily.
OurmissiontoglorifyGodandenjoyhimforeverisat theheartofeverythingwedo.Overthenextfewweeks, taketimetoreflectontheuniquegiftsandresources you’vebeenentrustedwithandconsiderhowyoucan usethemtobuildGod’sKingdom.
IreallythinkGod’smessagetoAbrahaminGenesis12 appliessoaptlyrightnowtoEastminster:“AndIwill blessyou;Iwillmakeyournamegreat,andyouwillbe ablessing…andallthepeoplesonearthwillbeblessed throughyou.”
MichaelBeaumont-Consultant
Afterservingasapastorfor30years,Icantellyou thatIdon’tknowasinglepastorwholovestalking aboutmoney atchurch.Afterbeingachurch-goer forover50years,IcantellyouI’venevermeta church-goerwholoveshearingaboutmoney at church!ButIknowMANYpastorsand Christianswholovetheideaandimpactof generosity.AtINJOY,wedon’tlovetalking aboutmoney,butwedolovetalkingabouthow Godchangeslivesthroughthegenerosity ofhis people.
Itdoesn'thappenvery oftenthatIstepintoa churchthatalready hasagenerosityculture.It's evenmorerarethatIstepintoagenerouschurch whowantstobeeven more generous.Andyet that'swhatI'vefoundinmytimewithEastminster PresbyterianChurch-gettingtoknowDr.Smith andseveralofthekey financialleadersinthe church.
EastminsterPresbyterianChurchisuniquely positionedtomakeanimpactthroughgenerosity. Thispositioncomesfromaplaceofalreadybeing generous…butwhatwoulditlook likeifEPCwas “richinhelpingothers”?Whatdoesextravagant generositylooklike?
InhisletterstoCorinth,Paultalksabout generosity-specifically,thatfamousversethatwe allknowthatsays,that“theLordlovesacheerful giver.”Butinthatsamepassage,Paulsaysthat Godwillgenerously provideallthatyouneed,and
“Youwillbeenrichedineveryway foryourgreatgenerosity, whichwillproducethanksgiving toGodthroughus....”
IIcorinthians9:11
then,youwillalwayshaveeverythingandplenty left oversothatyoucangivetoothers.Thisscriptureis theperfectexampleofpurposeandimpact-the purposeandimpactofgenerosity.InGod’s economy,generosityisn’tmeasuredbydollarsgiven; itismeasuredbylivesimpacted-andnotjustthe impactonthosewhoreceivebutalsoonthosewho give.
Paulsaysthatwe'llbeenrichedineverywaybecause we'vebeengenerous.Andwhenthosegiftsofour generosityaretakentothosewhoareinneed,two thingshappen.Theirneedsaremet.Andasaresultof theirneedsbeingmet,theygivejoyfulpraisetoGod.
Ilovepurposeandimpact,andIlovethat EastminsterPresbyterianChurchknowsthepurpose andtheimpactofgenerosity.Ialsolovethatyou wanttogetevenbetteratit.I’mexcitedaboutour partnership.Iamproudtowalkbesideyou,andI can'twaittoseewhathappensnext.
Asweworktogethertowardextravagantgenerosity,I praythattheEastminsterchurchfamily willcontinue tochangethelivesofthosewhoreceive…andbe changedbytherichnessthatcomesthroughhelping others.
THE EASTMINSTER ENDOWMENT
Mission: Established to offer members and friends the opportunity to leave a legacy of faith for future generations by providing the opportunity to give to a variety of missions and ministries in perpetuity. The gifts will be distributed and allow the church to expand its reach locally, nationally, and globally. Currently, the over $4.2 million endowment teaches Truth to Eastminster members and the surrounding community, enables seminary students to pursue their call to a life of ministry, provides scholarships, enhances our property, and provides support and nurturing to families.
Leadership:
Endowment Chair: Billy Newsome Billy@newsomelaw.us Also serving: Bert Brannon, Sharon Bryant, Bill Francis, Russ Purdy, Joni Richardson, Anne Seabrook, & Paul Trippe Staff Support: Alisha Hudson and Dr. Brad Smith
ENDOWMENT FUNDS:
EastminsterInAction:(PreviouslyEastminsterPresbyterianChurchEndowment Fund)EstablishedtoencouragememberstosupportChrist’sworkinperpetuity. 2024-$36,698.35:$26,698.35SanctuarySoundSystemProject,$10,000.00Lutheran ServicesCarolinaNewAmericansProgram BALANCE12/31/24:$1,458,734.16
FrankandBettyHarden“ReachingoutwithLove":EstablishedinmemoryofFrank andBettyHardentosupportChrist’sworkinperpetuity.2024-$1,488.03:Sanctuary SoundSystemProjectBALANCE12/31/24:$74,562.35
Dr.JoeBryanDonahoTeachingChurch:EstablishedinthanksgivingtoGodforDr. Donaho’sencouragementandemphasisforEastminstertoequipandenablemen andwomentoclaim,develop,andusetheirGod-givengiftsinservicetoEastminster andtotheChurchuniversal.2024-$49,406.99:$3,480.55CORESpeakerfees&travel expenses,$15,862.06 E2interns’salaries,$1,000.00MealsforAdultVBS,$2,524.18 AdultVBSSpeakerhonorarium/mileage/meal,$500.00SmallGroupKick-offDinner Speaker,$1,040.20Men’sRetreatspeakerhonorarium&travel,$25,000.002024 AdventRetreatatLakeJunaluskaBALANCE12/31/24:$1,394,690.22
RobertB.Ariail&PatriciaB.AriailMarriageEnrichmentandSupport:Established bytheAriailsforthecreation,support,oradministrationofprogramsoractivities thatenrichandsupportmarriage.2024-$2,400.00:Spring2024Marriage EnrichmentClassBALANCE12/31/24:$284,461.11
AriailProperty:EstablishedbytheSessioninhonorandmemoryoftheAriailsfor thepurposeofmaintainingthephysicalplantofEastminsterinperpetuity. 2024-$13,044.20:Chancelstainedglasswindowrepair BALANCE12/31/24:$426,376.83
ENDOWMENT FUNDS
EbersoleSpecialNeeds:EstablishedbytheSessioninhonorandmemoryofDr.Jim andLouEbersoleforthepurposeofprovidingsupportfortheSpecialNeeds programofEastminsterPresbyterianChurchinperpetuity BALANCE12/31/24:$105,447.64
JudyandAlecChaplinBuildingLives:EstablishedbyJudyandAlecChaplinforthe purposeofassistingat-riskchildren,youth,andyoungadultsindevelopingtheir God-givenpotentialsinperpetuityBALANCE12/31/24:$336,211.58
YouthMissionScholarship:EstablishedtoprovidescholarshipsforEastminster membersasfollows:youthages14-20,theirparents,andchaperonesofthechurch toparticipateinchurchsponsoredovernightmissiontrips2024$2,000.00:Summer MissionTrips/ConferencesBALANCE12/31/23:$107,816.45
SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS:
Youth:Establishedbythechurchtoprovidescholarshipassistanceforyouthto attendretreatsandmissiontrips BALANCE12/31/24:$77,734.63
International:Establishedbythechurchtoprovidesupportforworthyinternational students,2024-$37,966.00:$25,000.00NursingResidenceatMalawiSeminary, $12,966.00SeminaryTuitionatlocalPresbyterianSeminary BALANCE12/31/24:$45,086.96
MissyBoydEastminsterDaySchool:EstablishedbyAustinandBarbaraBoydin memoryoftheirdaughter,Melissa“Missy”Blair,toassistEDSfamiliesfacing unexpectedfinancialhardships2024$6,117.37:StudentScholarships BALANCE12/31/24:$127,794.04
StradtmanMemorialSeminary:EstablishedinmemoryofMr.EarlW.Stradtmanto providescholarshipsforEPCmembersattendingapprovedPC-USAseminaries 2024-$3,054.20:TuitionandTravelExpensestoAustinTheologicalSeminary BALANCE12/31/24:$23,610.34
WoodSeminary:EstablishedbyGettisandMaryVinWoodtoprovidescholarships forEPCmemberswhoareattendingseminary BALANCE12/31/24:$30,921.87
ACCELERATED MISSION FUND:
Carolyn Holderman Family Nurture: Created by Nancy and Dr. Brad Smith in memory of Nancy’s mother, Carolyn M. Holderman, to provide family nurture opportunities or help women with children facing difficulties BALANCE 12/31/24: $150,839.77
LEANING INTO THE FUTURE
The Story of Inspirational Giving...(To Be Continued)
Rev. Dr. Brad Smith - Eastminster Today April/May 2024
In2023wecelebratedGod’sprovisioninmakingEastminsteracornerstoneoffaith andcompassioninourcommunityfor75years.Evenasweweregivingthanks,the HolySpiritwasatworkbehindthescenes,nudgingusonward.How?Throughthe inspiringgenerosityofasmallgroupofmemberswhoaremakingGod’sgracemanifest bygivinginexcessof$2.6millionfor“aboveandbeyond”ministryandmission.Let meexplain.
InDecemberof2022,thechurchreceivedanunexpectedgift.LelandandCornelia Williams,whoservedinmanywaysincludingleadingtheAlphaProgram,gavetheir childreninstructionsthat,uponLelandandCornelia’sdeathstothislife,theywanted aportionoftheirestatetogotoEastminster.Comingasitdidjustafewweeksbefore
Eastminster’s75thAnniversarycelebration,theHolySpiritusedthegifttopromptlistening,quietconversations,and ideasregardingministryneedsandopportunities.Thoseconversationscontinuedforseveralmonths,crystallizinginthe InspirationalGivingInitiative.
LeadingByExample:
InspiredbyGodandtheexampleoftheWilliams’generosity,adedicatedgroupofgenerousleaderswithinourchurch familywasaskedtochampionthisinitiative.Theseindividualsandfamiliesalreadydemonstratetheircommitmentto Eastminster’smissionthroughtheirongoingsupportoftheannualStewardshipCampaignandarenowincreasingtheir generositythroughthisone-time“overandabove”effort.
GraceRipples:
ThankstotheHolySpirit,theWilliams’generositywaslikeapebblelandinginapond,creatingripplesofgrace extendingoutwardinconcentriccircles.First,itwasafewleaddonorsquietlyopeningtheirheartsandhandsforthis effort.Then,inspiredbynewsofthisgenerosity,ourStewardshipministryteamfollowedsuit,significantlyincreasing theirpledgestoEastminster’sOperatingBudgetthispastFall.TheDeaconsandElderswerethenextconcentriccircleof thegraceripples,followedbythelargerchurchfamily,sothattodaywecancelebrateGod’sprovisionthroughbotha strengthenedoperatingbudgetfor2024andtheInspirationalGivingInitiativegiftsthatwillenableustoaddress additionalneedsandopportunities.
TheEastminsterInspirationalGivingInitiativeisanopportunitytoexpressourgratitudeforthepastandpassionately embracetheministryandmissionthatliesahead.Thisinitiativeseekstobuilduponthestrongfoundationlaidby generationsoffaithfulgiversbeforeus,ensuringthatEastminstercontinuestobeabeaconofChrist’slightforyearsto come.
ACommitmenttoGrowth:
TheInspirationalGivingInitiative,whichisseparatefromtheoperatingbudget,focusesondonationsmadeby2025, withtheimpactofthisincreasedgenerosityripplingoutwardandpropellingourministriesforwardthrough2026. Donorsparticipatinginthisinitiativehavebeenaskedtomaintaintheircurrentcontributionstothechurch’soperating budget,whilealsopledgingadditionalsupportforthisspecialinitiative.
InspiredGivingforInspiredLiving:
ThroughtheInspirationalGivingInitiative,thegenerosityofourdonorsensuresthatEastminsterChurchcontinuesto beavibrantcenteroffaith,service,andoutreach:
Improveourfacilities(AlreadyUnderway):ThenewsoundsystemintheSanctuaryisthefruitofthiseffort. Replacingthe60-year-oldwindowsintheAdministrationBuilding,andenhancingtheCourtyard,installinganew wellsothatourgroundsstaylush,evaluatingourSanctuarylightingsystemforupdatesorpossiblereplacement, addingsoundbafflesinhighlytraffickedareasnearmeetingordesignatedworshipareastopreservequietand reverenceasappropriate.
Investinthenextgenerationofleaders:Contributionswillallowustocallarecentseminaryorcollegegraduate toserveforonetotwoyears,providingthemwithvaluableministryexperienceandenrichingourchurchfamily.
Expandourreachanddeepenourimpact(AlreadyUnderway):Additionalclassesandstudieswillbeestablished, fosteringspiritualgrowthandwelcominganevenlargercommunitytoconnectwithEastminster.TheEastminster ArtsAcademyformusicandvisualartsforchildrenandadultsisbeinglaunched(Summerof2025).
Enhanceacenteroflifeandoutreach:TheChristianLifeCenter,alreadyastrength,willofferexpandedclasses andopportunitiestoreachallagegroups,withincreasedemphasisonwholeandhealthyliving,includingboth spiritualandphysicalcomponents(atleast22%offundsgivenfortheabovethreebulletpointspertainingtoministry andprogramemphasis).
Enableincreasedmissionsinvolvement(AlreadyUnderway):Additonalfundsarebeingsetasidetofurther subsidizemulti-daymissionexperiences,includingforadults,withthegoalof100adultsparticipatingeachyear, makingatangibledifferenceintheworld(atleast22%offundsgiven).
MEMBERSHIP& OUTREACH(M&O)
Mission: Towelcomeone anotherintotheBodyofChrist atEastminsterPresbyterianand provideintentionalfellowship opportunitiestosharethe GospelofJesus.
Leadership: M&OChair: TiffanyBeitz(2025) tiffanybeitz@hotmail.com
EastminsterStaffSupport: Dr.BenSloan,KristyStoneburner, StefanieHammond& KellyMcGrady
KEYACCOMPLISHMENTSIN2024:
Providedgreeters,follow-upwithvisitors,twoFirstStepclassesandvolunteers forWE@EPCmeals.
HeldaMen’sOysterRoast. StartedEPWPrayerBreakfasts.
OrganizedmonthlygatheringsforSeniors’Ministrywithoccasionaltrips.
OfferedReformationHeritageExpedition.
Addeda“DiscoverEastminster”gatheringforgapbetweenFirstStepclasses. HeldBring-A-FriendSundayevent.
FacilitatedanAlphaClassatTransitions.
GOALSFOR2025:
ProvidequarterlyactivityforMen’sMinistry. Offerelectronic/digitalpaymentoptionsformeals/activities. Exploreopportunitiestocollaboratewithotherlocalchurches. Explorehospitality/fellowshipoptions.
ProvideNextStepsclassandsupporttointegratenewmembersintothe lifeofthechurch.
Increasecommunitybuildingthroughsocialmediawithambassadorflags.
MEMBERSHIP & OUTREACH CANDIDS
NURTURE,EDUCATION& DISCIPLESHIP(NED)
Mission: Toofferabiblically-based educationprogramsothatchildren, youth,andadultsmaygrowintheir understandingofandcommitment toJesusChrist.Todevelop, administer,andoverseethe educationprograminfulfillmentof theGreatCommissionofourLord.
Leadership: NEDChair: BickH alligan(2025) bickhalligan@att.net
EastminsterStaffSupport: Dr.DouglassKey,Rev.CroskeysRoyall, AndreaFerree,EmilyHiggins, CarolineBennett,&JaniceBlair
KEYACCOMPLISHMENTSIN2024:
TheMiddleSchoolYouthMinistryissoundandfulfillingitspurposewithhigh ratesofparticipation,parentsatisfaction,andmanyopportunitiesfor education,localserviceandmissiontrips,leadingtolivesoffaithand discipleship.
TheLearningDifferencesYoungAdultgroupcontinuedtogrowandhosteda DayCampatCampColeinNovember.
AfterRev.NickDemuynck'sdeparture,YouthSunday,Confirmation,Montreat YouthConference,andtwomissiontripsweresuccessfullyexecuted;the202425Confirmationclasswasorganized,YouthfellowshipcontinuedonSunday evenings,andMid-weekBiblestudycontinuedtobeheldwhilethesearch processforNick'ssuccessorwasunderway.
AdultVBSwelcomedtheRev.Dr.ElizabethHinson-HastyfromUnion PresbyterianSeminaryinVirginiafortwoeveningsinAugust.
OurSmallGroupMinistrywelcomedtheRev.SteveEasontoitskick-offdinner inSeptemberandcontinuestobeastrongfocusforadultfaithformation.
ECAMPcontinuedtoserve60+childrenonaweeklybasis,providingchildren's choir,BiblestudyandfellowshipeachSundayevening.
NURTURE, EDUCATION & DISCIPLESHIP (NED)
GOALS FOR 2025:
Revamp Sunday School (K-5th grade) - $25,000 has been set aside in a designated fund during 2024 to hire a consultant if desired to help NED write curriculum standards by grade level.
Evaluate the Learning Difference Young Adults Ministry.
Develop a process for approval of outside speakers for Sunday school classes and youth events.
Sort out kick-off dates and process for Fall 2025.
Create content for a scrolling screen in the CLC track area to publicize weekly activities, speakers, classes and special events.
Consider adding speakers for Intergenerational Breakfast Sundays (Memorial Day, July 4 , and Labor Day weekends). th
NED CHILDREN'S MINISTRY CANDIDS
NED YOUTH MINISTRY CANDIDS
NED LEARNING DIFFERENCES CANDIDS NED LEARNING DIFFERENCES CANDIDS
NED ADULT MINISTRY CANDIDS
FINANCE
Mission: To be good stewards of the gifts that God has graciously provided to Eastminster.
Leadership: FinanceChairs: KevinO’Connell(2025) koconnell1423@gmail.com
EastminsterStaffSupport: AlishaHudson,ChristyRippy& LeslieSwain
KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN 2024:
Conducted 2023 Audit with our audit firm, Capin Crouse.
Coordinated the development of 2025 church budget.
Closely monitored monthly financials.
Guidance was provided by the Endowment Committee to the other committees for using endowed funds in regards to the spending rate.
Monitored the reserve funds and utilized opportunities to increase investment income while also ensuring the safety of those funds in a volatile market. Held an endowment event.
GOALS FOR 2025:
Conduct 2024 Audit.
Coordinate the development of 2026 church budget.
Monitor the reserve funds for opportunities to increase investment income while optimizing safety.
Continue to closely monitor monthly financials.
Assist with guidance for the new Director of Stewardship, Endowment & Planned Giving (Generosity & Special Projects) person when hired.
Monitor and track Inspirational Giving and adherence to Session’s percentage guidelines.
MISSIONS,SERVICE& BENEVOLENCE(MSB)
Mission: Toencouragemembersto respondtothegoodnewsofthe Gospelbymovingbeyond themselvesinservicetoothers.From servingchildrenhereinthe Midlands,toUSmissiontripsand beyond,theMSBMinistryoffers manyopportunitiesforEastminster's congregationtoserveothers.
Leadership: MSBChair: GeorgeHutton,Sr.(2025) george_s_hutton@yahoo.com
EastminsterStaffSupport: Dr.BenSloan,KristyStoneburner& Kel lyMcGrady
KEYACCOMPLISHMENTSIN2024:
67adultmembers(alongwith40+teenssponsoredbyNED)attendedmission tripstoMarshHarbour,Bahamas;Chiapas,Mexico;Nkhoma,Malawi;Mwandi, Zambia;Dallas,TX;andSt.Simon’s,GA.
SentatleastfivetrucksofHurricaneHelenereliefmaterialstoFirstGreenwood andFirstSpartanburg,alongwith$10,000forHurricanereliefdividedamong5 PCUSAchurches.
Distributed$162,000ingrantsoverandabovethebudgettoCampCole, NkhomaHospitaloperations,FamilyPromise,Habitat,Reconciliation Ministries,QueensChapelNCD,BiblesforMexico,TransitionsDutchPlaza project($75k),BradleyBookVending,JumpstartPrisonMinistries,Footcare chairs,MBF-Haiti,Hendrickson’sBahamaMissions,andHurricaneHelenerelief.
ReceivedEndowmentFundsforthefollowingprojects:NkhomaSeminary Scholarships($13k);homefornursing/medinterns($25k-nowbuilt);Lutheran FamilyServicesRefugeeHouse($10k).
MISSIONS, SERVICE & BENEVOLENCE (MSB)
KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN 2024:
60 staff and members served at the Salvation Army Christmas Warehouse for the day and we provided 700 Bibles to be included in children’s gifts.
Held a Clemson/Carolina Food Drive in Fall 2024 and donated 3,000+ pounds of food to Harvest Hope, Cooperative Ministry, and North Star Food Bank.
300 members participated in March Out Mission Day where we packed 10,000+ meals and sent members into the community to serve with our local mission partners.
Continued the 41-year relationship between the Columbia Women’s Shelter (CWS) and Eastminster Missions by encouraging Eastminster Presbyterian Women (EPW) in partnership with CWS to nurture and grow this outreach through attendance and support of the November Women’s Souper.
CHAMPS and Bradley Lunch Buddies had a new staff member in Stan Holland. We have over 50 Bradley volunteers and about 20-30 children involved with CHAMPS.
GOALS FOR 2025:
Strive to send 100+ members on mission trips regionally, nationally, and globally. Trips are planned for North Carolina, Africa, Bahamas, and Mexico, and we are looking for other opportunities.
Look to open up one or two “regular/scheduled” service opportunities for members. We are investigating an additional meal at Transitions, possibly lunch to offer a different time to serve.
Support North Carolina reconstruction and recovery after Hurricane Helene in consistent ways- regularly sending groups of volunteers to do mission work in Western North Carolina.
Thank you, Eastminster Family, for your service, benevolence and dedication to loving your neighbors- locally, domestically and globally- through amazing outreach efforts in 2024!
PERSONNEL
Mission: To be a resource for the senior pastor and the various areas of ministry involved in the management, care, and supervision of church employees.
Leadership: Personnel Chair: Bob Staton (2025) bstaton0711@gmail.com
Eastminster Staff Support: Dr. Brad Smith, Dr. Douglass Key & Alisha Hudson
KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN 2024:
Hired Louis Shirer as Organist.
Hired Stan Holland as CHAMPS Director.
Hired Alisha Hudson as Executive Director of Finance and Administrative Services.
Renewed Parish Associate agreements for Ben Sloan and Carol Byrd.
Hired Kristy Stoneburner as PT Member Involvement Coordinator.
Worked to maintain competitive wages for hourly staff.
GOALS FOR 2025:
Hire a Digital Content Coordinator.
Hire a PT Director of Stewardship, Endowment & Planned Giving (Generosity & Special Projects).
Hire a Senior Communications Officer.
Call an Associate Pastor of Senior High Youth and Their Families.
Maintain competitive wages for hourly staff.
COMMUNICATIONS
Mission: Todevelopandimplement strategiestoinform,educate,and inspiremembersaboutopportunities togrowinfaithandservice,while alsoraisingawarenessofEastminster anditsactivitiesinthecommunity.
Leadership: CommunicationsChair: MaryMcCants(2025) marymccants@icloud.com
EastminsterStaffSupport: BlytheLewis,JamesCassidy& KelseySmith
KEYACCOMPLISHMENTSIN2024:
PartneredwithWorship&MusicCommittee,SeniorPastor,andvendor-BMG-and implementedanewSoundSystem.
PartneredwithM&OandimplementedanonlinedirectoryviaShelbyNext.
PartneredwithM&Ooneffectivepromotionalitems&swagwithconsistent branding.
Conductedathoroughreviewof EastminsterTodayMagazinetodeterminekey enhancements.
GOALSFOR2025:
Expandbrand&virtualpresence(examples:continuedSMoutreach,website currency(updatedphotos,videosonministrypages);lookintoimplementingan EPCPodcast;researchanEPCApp(dependentuponShelbyNext).
Providesupportthroughministrypartnerships(examples:(M&O)onlinedirectory; (W&M)digitalsign,surveys,Jubileeworshipenhancementsviamedia;(NED/New Assoc.PastorforYouth&YoungAdults)promoteevents&programstoengage EPCyouth,childrenofEPCwhoareadults,andthoseinourcommunitywhoare seekingachurchhome).
Provideeffectiveoutreach(examples:remaincurrent-technologyupgradesand replacements;expandstaff-coveringbandwidthwellwithskill-setsneeded).
CONGREGATIONAL CARE&CONCERN
Mission: Toserve,inthenameofChrist, becauseofhisloveforusandhischurch, andtoshowGod'sloveandconcernfor membersofthechurchbyproviding visitation,encouragement,andsupport.
Leadership:
CongregationalCareandConcernChair: SusanRatteree(2025) shratteree@gmail.com
EastminsterStaffSupport:
Rev.EmilyMooneyhan,Dr.CarolByrd& KellyMcGrady
KEYACCOMPLISHMENTSIN2024:
EmpoweredSmallGroupsandSundaySchoolClassestoprovidemealtrains directlytotheirmemberswhentherewasaneed.
Expandedourhomecommunionaccessibilitybyinvitingallelders,pastand current,totakecommunionmonthlytoourshut-inmembers.Byinvitingpast elderstoparticipate,weareabletoextendthetabletoevenmorememberson agivenSunday.
GOALSFOR2025:
Worktodestigmatizementalhealthchallengesandcultivateholisticwellnessin ourspiritual,emotional,andmentalwellbeingthroughprogramming, communicationsandsupportgroupopportunities. Provideresources,supportandeducationalopportunitiesforhealthygrieving. Continuetoadapt,developandsupportopportunitiesforCongregationalCare;b aswaystobothserveandreceivecare,fosteringhealthycommunicationand partnershipwithotherministryareastobestserveourmembersandcommunity inareasofcare.
UpdateCareself-reportingthroughthechurchwebsite.Encourageandempower memberstousethisfeaturetocommunicatebothjoysandconcerns.
GOALSFOR2025(CONTINUED):
Offerandprovidecaresupporttoourmembersandcommunitythough theStephenMinistryprogram.StephenMinistryremainsanunderutilized ministryopportunity.
THEVIBRANTCAREMINISTRIESOFEPCWEREBUSYIN2024:
LoveBearersprovided268handwrittenprayercardsandnotes.
PrayerShawlknittinggroupgaveover150knittedhatstoOliverGospel,Toby’s Place,TransitionsandNCDisasterrelief,aswellasnumerousprayershawlsto membersandfriendsinneedofthiswarmgestureofcare.
Themedicalclosetwasautilizedresourceformembersandneighborsinneed ofmedicalequipment.
VasesofCareministryassembledweeklyvasesofoursanctuaryflowerstobe deliveredtothosewhocouldbenefitfromthecheer.
FoodfortheSoulhosted23memorialreceptions.
PrayerMattersexpandedtoincludeourSundaySchoolClassesandSmall GroupsMinistrytoprayforeachmemberofourcongregation,byname.
InvitationtoChange(ITC),anongoingsupportgroupforfamilieswithaloved onewho’slivingwithasubstanceabusedisorder,beganmeetingmonthly.
CHRISTIANLIFECENTER(CLC)
Mission: ThepurposeoftheCLCistobethe centerofactivitywheretheloveofJesus ChristisshownthroughChristianfellowship inasafe,engaging,andholyenvironment, wherethecommunitycancometogether andparticipateinrecreationalprogramsand utilizeourfacilitiessothatwemayupliftone anotherspiritually,physically,mentally,and emotionally.ToglorifyGodbyreachingout tothosearoundustohelpencourage, develop,an dnurturerelationshipswithand faithinJesusChrist.
Leadership: CLCChair: KarenHudgens(2025) khudgens@sc.rr.com
EastminsterStaffSupport: Dr.DouglassKey,EmmetHough, &CarolineBennett
KEYACCOMPLISHMENTSIN2024:
Increasednumberofweeklyfitnessclassesfrom15to18,andaddedathird personaltrainer.
CompetedintheChristianYouthBasketballLeague(CYBL),with380boysand girlsparticipatingon37differentteams;andforadults,hosted55menonsix teamsintheSteveBatesBasketballLeague.
HostedourfirstEPCPickleballTournamentwith16doublesteamscompeting, andcontinuedtoexpandourweeklyPickleballofferings.
HostedoursecondannualAugustCLCFitnessOpenHouse,whichincreasedin participantsthisyear.
GOALSFOR2025:
ImplementournewCLCmembership($75)andfob($25)feesasofJan1,2025. Host2blooddrivesthroughouttheyear.
Providenewopportunitiesforspiritual,physical,socialandhealth development.
Lookintoaddingnon-sportsclassestothecommunity(nutrition,meditation, art,cooking).
ExplorewaystobetterincorporateEPC’ssermons/devos/messagesintothe differentareasoftheCLC.
StartnewSmallGroupsforPickleballandFitnessClassattendees.
CHRISTIAN LIFE CENTER (CLC) CANDIDS
Thankyou,EastminsterFamily!
Asweembarkonanewyear,Eastminstercontinues itsunwaveringcommitmenttoglorifyGodand enjoyhimforever.Thisyear'sthemeof“Seeking GodFirstEvenWhen…”invitesustoreflectonthe countlesswayswecanmakeadifference.
Throughoutthepastyear,we'vewitnessedthe transformativepowerofourcollectiveefforts.From localoutreachprogramstoglobalmissions, Eastminster'simpactextendsfarbeyondourchurch walls.We'veseenhowourfinancialsupportand volunteerhourshave:
Empoweredindividualsandfamiliesthrough servingwithTransitions,FamilyPromise, BradleyElementary,andCHAMPS. BegunprovidinghopetothoseinNorth Carolinawhotragicallylostsomuchthroughthe devastatingdestructionofHurricaneHelene. Advancedthegospelmessageacrosstheglobe throughmissiontripstoBahamas,Chiapas,MX, andDallas,TX.
Yourgenerosity,bothintimeandtreasure,hasbeen instrumentalinshapingthelivesofcountlesspeople. Aswelookaheadto2025,weinviteyoutojoinusin continuingthislegacyofcompassionandservice.
Bymakingapledge,you'renotjustpledgingto commitfinancially;you'reinvestinginthefutureof ourchurch,community,andGod’skingdom.Your commitmentwillenableusto:expandouroutreach programs,supportvitalministries,andsharethelove ofChristwithothers.
Weencourageyoutoprayerfullyconsideryour pledgefor2025.Together,wecanmakealasting difference.
2024Year-endGiving: Thankyouforyoursupport ofEastminsterin2024.Year-endcontributionscanbe madeviatheofferingplatebySunday,December29, orbymailifpostmarkedbyTuesday,December31.If youarebringingyourbalancebytheChurchOffice, pleasemark"Attn:Treasurer,"anddeliverittothe receptionistonTuesday,December31,by5p.m. Todonatestock,contactChristyRippy,Treasurer, @crippy@eastminsterpres.orgforstocktransfer instructions.
“Eachofyoumustgiveasyouhavemadeup yourmind,notreluctantlyorunder compulsion,forGodlovesacheerfulgiver.”
2Corinthians9:7