State of the Church 2014

A letter from the Senior Pastor, Greg Bouvier
Now in year three, the “State of the Church” letter comes with joy and gratitude for the position that we find Sheridan’s ministry. As Senior Pastor I believe we are poised for many great things.
Clearly our community has settled into our new vision. I sense that we have embraced a greater spiritual depth and are a congregation which seeks to grow beyond the lure of consumer needs. While difficult to assess, some positives include a much larger and deeper engagement. Volunteerism is up, both within and beyond our walls, financial stewardship is excellent and harmony is a hallmark of who we are. Most importantly, I sense a greater determination from members regarding your personal spiritual journey.

Life at Sheridan is good. All I can say is… to God be the glory!

I remain thankful for how the Spirit has blessed us. For the first time in three years we are fully staffed! Pastor Michelle Oetken’s addition has been a God-send. Her core competencies are exceeded only by her depth of faith. I believe our entire staff remains both highly productive and extremely faithful. At the risk of speaking for them, I’m confident each of us find joy in serving the Lord by serving you, as God’s people.

Last January we put forth the vision to retire Sheridan’s debt by the end of 2014. What had been a $6 million loan was down to $750,000 at the end of 2012 and only $450,000 by the end of 2013. I humbly and happily announce that we are now debt free! This will usher in a new chapter in Sheridan’s history, as we likely have not been debt free in our entire 61 year history! How awesome is that?

Be sure to read more about The Readiness Fund on page 1. We have chosen to be an intentionally debt free congregation. This will come with challenges as we seek to continue our trend of doing big things for God. And the list of things to do is long!

I remain grateful to those of you who seek to make Sheridan strong. I ask for your prayers, not for me, but for our future. May we all, united in faith and choose to love deeply, grow spiritually and share abundantly.