“Now as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in utmost eagerness, and in our love for you—so we want you to excel also in this generous undertaking.”  2 Corinthians 8:7 (NRSVue)

 

Dear Friends in Christ,

 

I’ve always loved game shows. As a kid, I spent many a sick-day with Richard Dawson and Chuck Woolery, playing along from home – guessing the prices and trying to answer all the questions. There’s an old recording of me pretending to host “The Price is Right.” In fact, Bob Barker is probably why I got into voiceover years later. And when I was at USC, I even competed on “Win, Lose or Draw” to help fund my student film.

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In some ways, life is like a game show. We try to avoid the “whammies” and the “bankrupts.” We try to have all the right answers and beat the buzzer. But the good news for us at Shepherd of the Valley, is that the right answer is always Jesus. Being a Lutheran and a Christian is like being on a game show where you always win, because Jesus is the answer to every question.

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In 2 Corinthians 8:7, Scripture reminds us to Excel In Generosity, and so I’ve chosen that as the theme for our 2026-2027 Stewardship Campaign.

 

For years, I’ve watched this congregation meet every request, surpass every goal and fund so many needs – from tiny homes, hot breakfasts, labyrinths and roofs, to a thriving preschool and new worship technology – and we did it even when it seemed really hard. But as we know, there are always new needs and important projects when it comes to doing the Lord’s work, so now, as we prepare our 2027 annual church budget, it is the time for us to pray and plan.

 

Join me in this journey to excel in generosity. As you consider a pledge for next year,  look for inspiration in our new Breakfast Ministry, which grew out of the desire to feed our neighbors who are unhoused. Or consider the opportunity to send our youth and young adults to the 2027 ELCA National Youth Gathering in Minneapolis. Plus a new opportunity is coming our way soon as SOV has received a matching gift opportunity to renovate our kitchen. (Watch for more information to come!) Remember, SOV’s ministries are made possible by you sharing your generosity, and I hope you will join me and Danielle in making a pledge for the coming year.

 

You already know the answer: Jesus. Thank you in advance for your prayerful pledge and for always excelling in your generosity. Please return your pledge form by Sunday, November 8 and we will celebrate after worship that day with a brunch in Founders Hall.

 

Sincerely,

Brian Fairlee

Stewardship Chair