Together, We Are Making a Difference

IL/WI District Church of the Brethren
269 E. Chestnut • Canton, IL 61520
Phone & Fax: 309-649-6008
 

District Executive: Kevin Kessler, kevink.iwdcob@sbcglobal.net
Administrative Assistant: Beth Carpentier, bethc.iwdcob@att.net

Feb. 7, 2012

Dear Pastor, Treasurer, Friend of the District:

Each quarter the district office sends out the Pledged to Actual Comparison report for two reasons. The first reason is practical. The report provides congregations with the opportunity to review their giving for the year. Are they on track with their pledge? Have funds been sent that are not recorded? Can a contribution be made or increased? It’s always helpful to review current giving.

The second reason for sending this report is to say, “Thank you!” Your contributions to the district budget ensure the continuation of district ministries. District leadership takes seriously the responsibility to prudently care for and utilize contributed funds. So, thank you for entrusting district leadership to act on your behalf to effectively use the resources you give.

Moreover, thank you for the dollars and cents you contribute that make possible the following:

• Mission and Mortar grants/loans allowing congregations to improve real property and/or revitalize ministries.
• A district office that serves as a central base for the district, receives questions and comments, assists in meeting and district conference preparations, acts as a conduit for resources, and...
• District staff who assist with pastoral placements, pastor/congregation evaluations, resource distribution, consultation on matters of the church, licensing/ordination/installation services, and...
• A district newsletter helping us stay connected with each other and providing relevant insights.
• District Deacons who provide assistance during times of conflict and produce the District Potluck giving us the opportunity to gather for worship, fellowship, and learning experiences.
• Sending a Standing Committee delegate to represent our district at Annual Conference.
• Supporting new church development.
• Supporting revitalization of existing congregations.
• Financially supporting persons in ministry training programs—Education For a Shared Ministry (EFSM), Training in Ministry (TRIM), and Bethany Theological Seminary.
• Securing mentors for ministers in training, supporting persons through the credentialing process, giving oversight to the credentialing process
• Investing in a visioning process; setting goals; building strategies.
• And more...

Together, we are making a difference!

Grace and peace,

Kevin Kessler
District Executive