“Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness.” -Lam. 3:21-23

In this unprecedented year I want to thank you for YOUR faithfulness to the ministry at Kennewick First Presbyterian Church.  None of us anticipated the events which have unfolded when we set our church budget last fall.  Thankfully, we have remained steadfast in providing creative solutions to worship and study, fellowship and connection as a church.  Your continued gifts make all of that possible.

This month we have begun to reopen the church building for small groups (up to 20 people) and some of our ministry partners are returning to meeting indoors as well.  Our worship services are now available in person and online for both 9:30am and 11am weekly.  We know that many people have been adversely affected by COVID closures in loss of work and concern for health and safety.  We continue to find creative ways to meet individual needs through the Deacon Fund in the community through the Kennewick School District Homeless Office, Columbia Industries, and other agencies locally.  Our Mission Auction Funds supported a home build in Jamaica through Embracing Orphans and we hosted a virtual concert and sponsorship drive with the African Children’s Choir.  Your continued generosity and faithfulness to God is blessing not only our congregation and staff, but people around the world.

In difficult times, we are encouraged by God’s word to remember that God is always faithful.  The passage which inspired the wonderful hymn, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” comes from a very difficult time in the life of God’s people.  Jeremiah wrote it in response to the people of Israel being carried off to Babylon in exile.  In the midst of lament and sorrow, Jeremiah remembers that God is always faithful.  No matter what you might be experiencing today, may you feel God’s love and presence.  May you be reminded of God’s great faithfulness as we watch the seasons change, and remember that nothing lasts forever.  Even this difficult season of COVID separation will change and lead into new opportunities and new life.

We will kick-off our 2021 Stewardship Drive in November and as you consider your financial gift to the church, I ask that you prayerfully consider increasing your pledge.  Many people have been unable to meet their pledges this year and won’t be financially secure enough to pledge for next year.  But some people have the financial resources to increase giving; if that is your situation, please do so as you are able.

Always remember God’s love and great faithfulness.

God of Welcome and Wonder, help us draw the welcome circle wider.  Lord, you are faithful and your mercies renewed every morning.  Thank you for your continued presence and blessings in our lives.  May we be encouraged in our giving and see miracles happen in our church and throughout the world.  Amen.