STEWARDSHIP 2025

“And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. And all ate and were filled. What was left over was gathered up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.”

—Luke 9:16–17, NRSV

Dear People of St. Paul’s,

Grace and peace to you. As we prepare to enter a new season in our lives, I write to you with a heart full of gratitude. I continue to be moved by your deep commitment to this beloved community—by your prayers, your presence, your wisdom, and your generosity. Each act of giving, whether large or small, whether visible or unseen, helps nourish the life we share as the body of Christ.

This year’s stewardship theme, More Than Enough, invites us to reflect on the miracle of God’s abundance—how even a small offering, when placed in Jesus’ hands, becomes not only sufficient, but overflowing. In the story from Luke’s Gospel, the people came hungry and uncertain. Yet through the faithful offering of just a few loaves and fishes, everyone was fed—and there was more than enough left over to bless others.

As I prepare to step down as your rector in January, this message of abundance takes on deeper meaning. Transitions are often times of reflection and vulnerability, but they are also moments when the Spirit does His most creative work. God’s provision has always sustained this church, and will continue to do so. You—this faithful community—are the vessels through which that provision flows. Throughout this past year, I have seen wisdom at work among you: in your thoughtful leadership, in your careful discernment, in your willingness to show up, serve, and support one another. Your wisdom has sustained this parish, and it will guide you into this next chapter with strength and grace.

Enclosed is the pledge card for the next year. Please take time to prayerfully discern what your gifts of time, talent and treasure will be to God at St. Paul’s By-the-Lake. Harvest Sunday will be November 9th, 2025. Please turn your card by this date so the vestry can make the budget preparations for the next year.

As I prepare to pass the baton, I do so with confidence—not because of any one person’s leadership, but because I have seen how deeply rooted this church is in Christ’s love. Together, we are more than enough.

With love and in hope, and In Abundant Gratitude,

The Rev’d Fr John (Trey) Garland, Rector

Download a copy of the Giving Guide here: A Guide to Giving to St. Paul’s

ANNUAL PLEDGE

If you have not already submitted a pledge card, please prayerfully consider making one by filling out the following Virtual Pledge Card: