2008 Annual Report
One of the joys of life is its unpredictability. While some surprises are fun, some are frightening. For those of the latter variety, like the financial markets in the fall of 2008, we are fortunate to have the constant presence of God.
But do we remember God's presence? Headlines and news reports bombard us with the negative side of the story. If it bleeds, it leads in the media. If we are not careful, this onslaught tilts our vision. We don't have to let that happen.
Emboldened by faith, your support of your Foundation helped pay for students to attend seminary, for leadership resulting in three new church starts, for the operation of a new children's home in Mandeville, for a shelter for battered women, for an at-risk youth after school program and other meaningful ministries.
Educational events for clergy and laity addressed biblical stewardship, financial advice for Haynesville Shale recipients, personal financial planning for individuals, annual stewardship campaigns for local churches, and issues of peace and justice.
Twelve new loans totaling $3,696,000 were made to ministries furthering the cause of Christ. Planned gifts of $2,869,341 were established by individuals to provide for the future of their churches at no cost to the donors or their churches.
The recent economic woes have reminded us that biblical principles still apply but did not change anything really important. God is with us still. The real issue is whether we believe the news of God's abundance or the headlines of scarcity.
Have faith in the future. Consider including a tithe of your estate to your church. Leave a legacy that says, "I trust God's generosity. I choose the glass half full."
- Download: Annual Report 2008
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