Dear St. Andrew,

This is a time of deep gratitude for the ministry of St. Andrew. Over the past several months, we have shared the story of our congregation through the Faith that Welcomes. Love that Reaches. anniversary appeal. Together, we are seeking to strengthen hospitality and welcome, address important capital needs within our aging facilities, support the faith-shaping ministry of Spirit in the Pines, and expand our outreach ministry in Minneapolis. 

As of late June, 272+ families have pledged $4.59 million over the next three years. In addition, 70 households have made gifts without a long-term pledge commitment. Altogether, our Anniversary Appeal has received $4.69 million from 342 households. More than 500 phone calls have also been made to invite additional participation as we continue toward our $5.5 million goal. We are profoundly grateful for this extraordinary encouragement and generosity. 

One of the great joys of these past months has been witnessing the enthusiasm and care people have for St. Andrew’s ministry and each other. On one beautiful Saturday morning this spring, more than 100 volunteers visited homes throughout the community to personally greet members and invite participation in the appeal. Smiles, handshakes, and conversations reflected the spirit of connection that defines this congregation. I especially appreciated hearing from two households afterward who said they were surprised and grateful to discover a pastoral visit captured on their doorbell cameras! 

Throughout the appeal, worship has also become a place where the story of St. Andrew has been told through powerful personal testimonies. We heard how this congregation nurtures faith in children and families, supports people through changing seasons of life, and creates opportunities to serve neighbors with compassion and hope. From Spirit in the Pines to outreach in Minneapolis, from music and worship to relationships and belonging, these stories reminded us of the many ways God is at work through this congregation.

That Spirit was especially visible during our combined worship service and circus-themed pancake breakfast in late April. Joy, welcome, creativity, and community were all on display in ways that felt uniquely St. Andrew. Thank you for your enthusiasm, your participation, and yes, even your dancing! 

Most importantly, the love of God in Jesus Christ continues to be shared through this community. Here people find belonging, grow in grace, and are encouraged to care for neighbors in life-giving ways. This is holy and important work.

As we move into the implementation phase of the appeal, some of our first projects are beginning to take shape. Boiler replacement work will begin early this summer, and planning is underway for the Jericho cabin replacement at Spirit in the Pines following the camping season. Additional facility enhancement planning is also continuing. Your generosity will strengthen the ministry of St. Andrew for years to come, and I thank God for the powerful response we have already seen. 

As summer begins, I also look forward to seeing you in worship—in person or online—as we begin our new series, Villains and Heroes of the Bible. Together we will explore familiar and unfamiliar stories that reveal God’s enduring love for the world, a story that continues to renew, challenge, and refresh us. 

In gratitude,

Pastor Peter Johnson