Pastoral note, from Garrett
We are just one month away from our Stewardship Emphasis Sunday. On October 12, we are inviting our whole church to take a step of faith together. We’re calling it Try the Tithe Sunday. On that day, we’re asking each of us to give 10% of one week’s income—not as a burden, but as a bold act of trust. It’s a way of saying, “God, I trust you with what matters most.” We believe this step will open doors to joy, deepen our life of generosity, and reveal what we can accomplish together.
Last week, our Ministries Council—made up of committee chairs and ministry leaders—gathered to review the year, discuss the 2026 budget, and begin planning for what’s ahead. I told them that for much of my time here, I’ve spoken about money in what I call a “1990s kind of way.” Back then, as Chuck Klosterman writes, the greatest fear was to “sell out.” Talking too much about money felt like selling out, so we avoided it.
But here’s the truth: when we don’t talk about something, it often gains even more power over us. I’ve been cautious and even apologetic in how I’ve addressed stewardship. Going forward, I want to be more straightforward—because generosity is not about budgets or buildings, it’s about discipleship.
You probably get as many emails as I do each day asking for donations. I don’t want to add to the noise. But I do want to consistently remind us that our financial gifts sustain the ministry we share at Woodland. That’s why I send giving updates and why we will emphasize stewardship this October.
Alongside that, we are preparing for a capital campaign to help complete our renovation project—a decision we made together last spring. In the coming weeks, I’ll share more about why this matters and the opportunities it creates for ministry.
Beyond finances, there are also opportunities for learning and joy:
On October 22, Serendipity returns with a discussion of Louise Penny’s new Gamache novel, alongside a Family Fun Night.
This Sunday, Greg Garrett will be preaching in both services. During Sunday School, join us in Maresh Hall for a conversation with Greg about what he has learned from studying racism in the Church and the wisdom he has gleaned from the Black Church.
Friends, God has given us much to steward—our resources, our time, our voice, and our shared life together. Thank you for the ways you give of yourselves so faithfully. I am grateful for each of you.
Grace and peace,
Garrett Vickrey