From the St. John's Messenger, November, 2001, page 1.
At the time of this writing I am grateful to report to you that the mission of your church is being realized in your time. Since the incorporation of an earlier service, -- and faithful attendance in our traditional service, -- the average worship attendance at St. John's has risen 34%. Our normal weekly worship average last year for October was 191 per Sunday. The last two weeks of October this year demonstrated an average weekly worship attendance of 255. This is in my estimation 'An Act Of God'. In short, "We are being blessed," so that we may be a part of blessing others. I could not be more happy or fulfilled as pastor of your church. i really believe that over 300 per week will be worshipping with us by middle of next year. Here is why I think so:
I think people are very hungry for a connection or re-connection with God, especially in response to the current issues of way and terrorism. History tells us that people seek deeper levels of spirituality during times of crisis.
I believe that God is calling us to open our doors ever wider to those who have never felt comfortable in a traditional setting, yet who have needs just the same. A new freer environment of worship is very inviting to those who need a less formal environment. The Parish Hall will still hold 50 more each Sunday before we run into serious space problems. I believe we will be up to 150 in worship in the new service y Easter, 2002.
I believe that God is calling us to continue to offer a traditional worship option for those who find traditional worship as meaningful as I do. Mansfield is a traditional town with traditional values. I think that our traditional worship will hold steady at 150 in worship.
When we combine the projected attendance of the first service with the attendance of the second --- the goal of 300 in worship each Sunday sounds pretty feasible.
Here is what is needed from you. Please continue to be regular in your worship attendance, and why not attend both services. Each will feed your spirit in a different way. Both services are faithful services meant to do the same thing; to connect us to God and to help us make disciples for Him.
Also, please invite a friend or neighbor to come with you to church -- either service! "Your excitement" will make all the difference. Your great grandparents, grandparents, mothers, and fathers built this church with their faithful commitment. It is now our time to build this church so that it may be here to serve our children and theirs.
Lastly, please continue in your faithful giving. We are able to reach out to more people as we have resources to do so.
I am really proud of all that St. John's does for its community, world, and God. Together our many worship experiences and various committees and organizations serve as "One Church, with One Mission".