2024 State of the Church

When I was called as Senior Pastor twelve years ago, I began writing an annual letter. My intent was to give insights into where Sheridan’s ministry is and where I hoped we might go together. I keep writing it each year because of the positive feedback I receive.

For if the eagerness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has…
-2 Corinthians 8:12

How does one measure the success of a church? Historically, many metrics were used. In recent history, as part of what was deemed, the church growth movement, the most important metric was worship attendance. If you could “draw a crowd for Jesus” you must be doing church right. In the long history of the church, other metrics like feeding the poor, tending to the sick, and being a small and consistent presence of God’s grace were the main measurements of success. 

At Sheridan, we see the metrics shifting. Our culture activities and busyness, especially around the lives of our children, have deeply affected Sunday morning worship. What used to be considered the measure of how much one cared – the spending of time in worship – has dwindled in so many churches. We are less effective in drawing a crowd, but then again, what does “drawing a crowd” actually do for Jesus? 

Whenever Jesus drew a crowd, his immediate response was to send the people into the world. We certainly are fed in worship and community, but we are not fed for ourselves, but rather for others. Jesus calls us to go make a difference in the world.

As I reflect on the difference Sheridan is making, my heart is hope-filled. When our Retreat Center needed to be replaced, we ambitiously set out to build our new Outreach Center. This will be a tool for our church family to better meet the needs of organizations in our community. From backpacks to quilters and from scouts to social services, we will make a difference.

What is clear is that you all care deeply! More than your time, you have given financially to support this endeavor. To date we are about $300,000 short of completing the $2,200,000 building. Even more, we’ve done this with very few “large gifts” but mostly through the collective support of our church family. 

The Readiness Fund was born out of a desire to respond to God’s work in the hearts and lives of Sheridan members who wish to make a difference. And we based it on the scripture above. Essentially, when the heart is “ready” and “eager” the gifts will be true.    

I remain so excited about what is happening at Sheridan. Thank you for your generosity, for the love you have for our community, and for how much you care. It remains my privilege to be your pastor.