Quarterly Warden Letter
Dear St. Paul's,
As we enter the Easter season, we are happy to report that St. Paul’s is thriving. Membership is continuing to increase, and our ministries are expanding. We have seen particular growth in the number of young families and children attending St. Paul’s. Our new space at the Station is being well used for Christian Formation and as a meeting place for many groups from both the church and the community. We also welcomed our new associate rector, Erika Takacs. The season of Lent offered all of us many opportunities to enjoy beautiful liturgies, formation, and of course, our traditional Wednesday Lenten Suppers.
We are pleased to report that St. Paul’s financial condition is on much-improved footing. Year-to-date, our pledge revenue is coming in over budget and our expenses remain under budget. We have managed to lessen our dependence on drawing down reserves to fund daily operations. Our improved financial strength is directly attributable to each of you who has pledged generously. Our 2025 Annual Giving campaign under the leadership of Sally and Ricky Shore brought in a new record in total pledged dollars. In addition, your Vestry and staff have worked diligently to streamline operations and manage expenses while nurturing our many programs and ministries. We take very seriously our obligation to use your pledge dollars wisely, carefully, and in service to God.
In addition to your financial commitment to St. Paul’s, we would like to thank all those who are volunteering their time. We urge you to consider becoming involved in one or more of the many rewarding service opportunities our church offers. It is a great way to serve God while getting to know your fellow parishioners and finding your own niche here.
Typically, pledge revenue does tend to dip during the summer months, so we would encourage each of you to do your best to keep your pledge current or even to prepay it if possible.
We would simply emphasize that while our financial condition has improved over the last year, we must not allow ourselves to become complacent. Keeping our church finances healthy is an ongoing effort, which requires all of us to participate. If you have not yet made your pledge, it is never too late.
Like our beloved neon cross on the church tower, St. Paul’s is a beacon, showing the way of Jesus to those in Winston-Salem and beyond. Thank you for helping make that a reality.
With gratitude and appreciation,
R. Morris Friedman, Senior Warden Charlotte Broughton, Junior Warden