So then, with endurance, let’s also run the race that is laid out in front of
us, since we have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us. Let’s
throw off any extra baggage, get rid of the sin that trips us up, 2 and fix our
eyes on Jesus, faith’s pioneer and perfecter. He endured the cross, ignoring
the shame, for the sake of the joy that was laid out in front of him, and sat
down at the right side of God’s throne.
– Hebrews 12: 1-3 CEB
Dear St. Paul’s UMC Family,
As the leaves begin to turn their vibrant shades of amber, gold, and maroon,
and the crisp air announces the arrival of fall here in Portland, I find myself
filled with gratitude for the beauty that surrounds us. The majestic
mountains, the serene lakes, and the lush forests remind us of God’s
handiwork in creation. In this season of transition, we are called not only to
appreciate the world around us but also to reflect on the blessings
within our church family.
Fall is a time of harvest—a season of gathering what we have sown throughout the
year. It’s a time to pause, give thanks, and prepare our hearts for what lies ahead. As we
enjoy this fall season, I invite you to consider how we can collectively nurture the gifts
God has given us. This year, our church will be launching a new giving campaign titled
“Passing the Baton.” Barbara Maxwell will be sharing more about this with us beginning
this coming Sunday morning during worship. The theme “Passing the Baton” is
inspired, in part, by the relay races we often watch, where teamwork and strategy are
key to success. Hebrews 12: 1-3 tells us that in our faith journey, we, too, are in a race,
where each generation has the responsibility to pass on the wisdom, resources, and
spiritual gifts to the next. Just as athletes train for their next race, we are called to
equip and empower new lay leaders in our community. This campaign invites each of
you to discern your spiritual gifts and consider how you might contribute to the
ongoing ministry of our church. Your unique gifts and talents have a place in our
shared mission. We are not merely stewards of our own gifts; we are caretakers of a
legacy that stretches far beyond ourselves.
As we launch this initiative, I encourage you to reflect on your experiences within our
church community. What moments have inspired you? How have you felt the presence
of the Holy Spirit among us? I believe that each story, each voice, adds a unique thread
to the tapestry of our congregation. This is an opportunity to share your gifts with
others and to invest in the next generation of leaders who will carry our mission
forward.
In conjunction with our campaign, we are also inviting you to consider your financial
support. Just as we invest our time and talents, our financial contributions play a vital
role in sustaining and expanding our ministries. Your giving allows us to provide
resources for our programs, support community outreach, and foster an environment
where spiritual growth can flourish.
As we embark on this journey together, I ask each of you to prayerfully consider how
you might support this initiative, whether through time, talent, or treasure. Each
contribution—big or small—plays a crucial role in helping us pass the baton of faith and
service to those who will follow. In this season of change, let us remember that just as
the trees shed their leaves to prepare for new growth, we too can let go of what no
longer serves us and embrace the possibilities ahead. Together, let’s celebrate the
beauty of our community, the richness of our shared faith, and the promise of new
beginnings.
May this Fall bring you peace, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose as we strive to
cultivate a legacy of love and service in our church and beyond.
With love and peace,
Pastor Kamron