April 6, 2026 //
Life’s brief moments taken together in community lead to lasting and living memories of times cherished. Churches, their people and their places, help hold those memories of fleeting and faithful life.
From time to time, I look through the old photo directories of St. Stephen’s Church. It always makes me smile. I see familiar families and faces there, people I have come to know and love in this church who faithfully abide here still. Of course, these snapshots from past times show our younger faces, once younger families with little children who today have little children of their own. And I see the visages of loved ones who have completed this life in faith and now dwell with God and in the Communion of Saints.
Sometimes I wonder… What were the challenges, the hopes, the visions, and dreams of these younger St. Stephen’s people? Now having come to know many of you, I can say that one of the hopes the church has shared over years, over generations, and a hope shared even by people who recently have become members of this church, is for this community of faith to thrive! To live!
To be here, welcoming people to life in Christian faith. I know this because I have seen many of you pour your own hearts and gifts and time and hopes into the love and care of St. Stephen’s Church. It’s awesome, and it’s humbling.
The plans and vision for the future embraced in our Second Century Capital Campaign – Keeping Faith, Looking Ahead – are before our broader St. Stephen’s community. Some may say we’re a little ahead of the game, as our church’s centennial year doesn’t come until 2037, but I like to say we are right on time with this ministry of renewal, of preparation, and of hope.
By undertaking our campaign now, we approach our next century, not with trepidation regarding our faithful but aging facilities or without an idea of who we believe we are called to be as Christians in this 21st century.
By the grace of God and the generosity of our membership, we plan to keep it going, and by this present campaign, we will enter a new century of ministry and service ready to focus not on facilities, rather upon people, on growth in faith and spirit, on welcome, worship, and care.
So, people of St. Stephen’s Church, we are invited into a brief season of enthusiastic campaign to establish a Second Century of ministry. Over the next few months, expect to see and hear many stories about our shared life in Christ. Look for invitations to learn about the Campaign through events and activities.
Take our leaders up on opportunities to visit, so you can ask questions and offer support and guidance for this vision. I invite each of us to give of our resources in thanksgiving for our blessings, but only as each of us feels led and in accordance with our means as God has given us ability.
Every offering in faith is faithful; every gift is a kind seed for the future. Together we will help St. Stephen’s Church remain a light for Christ in this world.
Upcoming Campaign Events
Invitation Sunday – April 12 // 11:15 AM
Join us as we enter a new Season of Invitation in our Keeping Faith, Looking Ahead campaign. Gather for a brief exciting update on our progress to date, a look at what’s ahead, and a fun, all-ages activity to share your hopes for our future – along with food, surprises, and great company.
Gather & Learn Reception #1 – Wednesday, April 29 // 6:30 PM
Come take a deeper look at the vision for renewing our church home. Hear from parishioners and campaign leaders, explore plans in more detail, and experience a “Hard Hat Tour” with design renderings in the spaces they’ll transform—all in a casual evening setting with desserts and sparkling beverages.
Gather & Learn Reception #2 – Sunday, May 3 // 6:30 PM
This relaxed, post-worship gathering offers another opportunity to explore the campaign vision, ask questions, and take part in a guided “Hard Hat Tour.” Enjoy coffee, conversation, and a closer look at what’s ahead for our community.
