Seven Generations of Service
The Presbyterian Church, Sewickley (TPCS) and members like you have been supporting God's work and serving Christ's kingdom for over two centuries. For almost seven generations we have been devoted to personal spiritual formation, genuine fellowship and high impact mission at the corner of Grant and Beaver.  Along the way we have participated in thousands of Holy Communions and baptisms, experienced the joy of untold confirmations and weddings, and paid final respects to our dearest friends as they passed on to the Church Triumphant. Though our focus remains on the Ohio Valley region we call home, we are making a difference in neighborhoods across our country and in areas of need globally. We are writing today to ask for your prayerful consideration of a generous financial pledge to your Church's operating budget to support its programs in the new year ahead.

Our Church's Call
The theme of the 2010 Stewardship Campaign is: "TPCS Priority: People".  The kick off of the pledge drive this fall will coincide with the start of our journey in search of a new senior pastor following Dana’s retirement.  In accordance with the unique Presbyterian experience, it will be an important time to reflect on our Church's call and the vision we - as empowered members - have for the direction of our ministries. Even though we will thoughtfully deliberate on our leadership needs going forward, one thing is likely not to change; that is, our priority will remain making a difference in the lives of people in need.

Making a Difference
Our guess is we Presbyterians don't long to be good "stewards", which is a noble - but boring - concept. We long to make an impact; to be difference makers in this often-challenging world. TPCS and its members use their time, talent and treasure to ease pressing human needs through their support of the Samaritan Counseling Center, hosting after school programs for at-risk kids, leading adult and youth mission trips, hammering nails for Habitat, relocating refugees to the routine safety of our neighborhoods and many more high human touch efforts. Please refer to the attached Ministry Information piece for more examples and narratives on how your generosity has made a meaningful mark on others near and far.

Seize This Day
Economic fears challenge churches and can distract us from maintaining our strong ministries. The opportunities and obligations now are great, however, as neighbors in need may be more receptive than ever to hear the good news of Jesus Christ. Accordingly, we must seize this day by welcoming those seeking truth to experience our vibrant worship, music, and fellowship ministries and participate in our continuing education classes and rewarding mission projects.

Time, Talent and Treasure
The operating needs of TPCS are straightforward and transparent. Our Church, with the Holy Spirit's help, is only as strong as its members' time, talent and treasure make it. We have been blessed with generous members who have kept TPCS vital year-in, year-out. Let us pray that where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. We ask you today to consider a meaningful pledge - consistent with your current economic well being and the blessings you have received - to enable TPCS’ spiritual services and administrative work to boldly continue.