Help Christ's Foundry build and grow. Want to leverage that Economic Stimulus Payment?
Rev. Owen Ross preaching at the church property.
Members of Christ's Foundry Fellowship worship on the new church property.
BY REV. REBECCA FRANK
University Park UMC, Dallas
some ideas and conversations about what to do with that happy chunk-o-change. Maybe it feels a little weird to be encouraged to spend just for the sake of spending.
Allow me to suggest an alternative. What if some portion of that rebate check was used to "pay it forward" through continued support of one of our important NTC ministries? The strength and beauty of our connectional life is the way we often get to see God at work among us. And sometimes we are privileged to participate in those life-and-hope giving ministries beyond the walls of our own local churches.
I'm particularly excited about our continuing partnership with our sisters and brothers at Christ's Foundry, our mission church in the Bachman Lake neighborhood of Dallas.
This congregation worships in the converted storage area above the laundry room of an apartment complex. This vibrant community is growing, as is their need for a worship and
ministry center.
Two years ago Christ's Foundry launched its "1,000 Bells" campaign to raise $500,000 toward the cost of building on land purchased at the corner of Webb Chapel and Park Lane through the generosity of a $500,000 gift from the late Jim and Jean Redman of Lovers Lane UMC, Dallas
Big gifts like the $500,000 are very important, but so are more modest ones. Christ's Foundry members and their NTC brothers and sisters indifference by "buying" a bell for $500. The campaign is more than half-way toward its goal, with 400 more bells to go. Your gift can help Christ's Foundry meet the goal so construction can begin. If you give $500, you will receive a commemorative bell and your name will be inscribed in the new church's bell tower.
Please join me in not only stimulating the economy, but also in stimulating and fostering the spiritual and physical well-being of our neighbors and friends at Christ's Foundry. This is an opportunity to practice extravagant generosity. Certainly it is an opportunity to love the world with God, who loved us first!
Remember what Jesus said: "Truly I tell you, just as you did it for one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it for me." (Matthew 25:40)
For information, or to schedule a "Bell Day," contact Rev. Owen Ross, 214-497-9552 or log on to website www.ChristsFoundry.org
