advent greetings

Just like that, 2022 is a flash in the past. I am so grateful for the dynamic year that it was:   

  • The Lift UP pantry served clients on nearly 150 days.
  • The PSU Landing at First Church opened every night of the year. 
  • The church worshipped enthusiastically 125+ times.
  • 3 pastoral transitions took place between January and December.

Amidst the hellos and goodbyes, we peeked out of the fog of the pandemic. We adapted with better masks, additional boosters, and ever always a plan b. Over the course of the year, we moved from no congregational singing all the way to the option of taking communion by dipping bread into the chalice. We became more resilient and more excited about the future ahead. 

One key example of resiliency was the success of our 2023 Annual Campaign. At the time of this writing, 150 households have made financial commitments totaling over $770k (surpassing the prior year’s pledges by $60k). This number continues to grow week by week. What a celebration of the hope that we have in the collective impact of our faith community!

By all accounts and metrics, we are on an upward trajectory after several years of pandemic decline. We are growing in financial generosity, worship attendance, and volunteer engagement. Our congregation has made it clear: we really are just getting started. 

Before we can get into the exciting future that 2023 promises, we must close out 2022. If you have not yet completed your pledge for 2022 and are not able to do so because of life circumstances, please let us know. If you have already completed your 2022 giving, thank you!

As the Finance and Stewardship Committee shared in the 3rd quarter financial update, we need your generosity to finish the year. We are appealing for above-and-beyond financial giving this December toward the 2022 operating budget. We ask that you prayerfully consider giving toward the closing of the current financial gap. You can donate online at fumcpdx.org/give.

Finally, we invite you to celebrate Christmas at First Church. On December 24 we will worship at 7 and 9pm. Both services will be live-streamed, and feature music by the Chancel Choir, Jonas Nordwall on the Mary L. Collins Organ, with special guests, the Festival Brass. 

I can’t wait to celebrate my first Christmas at First Church with you and look forward to where God will lead us toward in 2023. 

In gratitude,

Rev. Karyn Richards – Kuan

Senior Pastor

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