Dear Friends,

Our 2026 stewardship theme, Plenty Good Room, reminds us that stewardship is not only about financial and in-kind gifts. It is also about relationships – the ways we are connected to God, to one another, and to our neighbors.

Our parish budget is one way we tell the story of those relationships. Each pledge and gift sustains our common life: Special Needs children growing in faith, neighbors receiving meals and care from The Pantry, worshipers being welcomed, and neighborhood friends finding hope, recovery (AA Groups) and nourishment in the Community Garden. Our budget is more than numbers; it is a reflection of our values and our mission.

In addition, our budgets help us to sustain our sacred place of worship as a welcome for all who enter our doors. Our gardens need water and weeding to flourish. Our buildings need heat in the winter and cool air in the summer to warm our souls and reflect the light of God’s love as we sing and praise Him who loves us all.

We invite you to reflect on the relationships that have sustained you in this church and consider how your generosity can help extend that same welcome to others. Please prayerfully consider your response and return your pledge by October 30th.

There is, indeed, plenty good room in God’s house. Together, let us make room for one another.

In Christ’s service,

Jean Derum, Sr. Warden, St. James Episcopal Church