Grace-Westminster United Church

From the Scriptures, the source and foundation of our Christian faith, we learn from an early age the powerful, spiritual symbolism of light, of lamps and of oil for our lamps. Exodus 27: 20-21 reads: “Command your people to bring you pure oil of pressed olives for the light, to keep the lamps burning continually.” In the Bible, oil has a deep spiritual meaning symbolizing presence and the blessings God bestows upon God’s people.

 

In recent weeks the leaders at Grace-Westminster have discovered that our church’s lampstands need repair. Alas, we are no longer able to replace the fluorescent tubes or ballasts in the light fixtures at Grace West. This means we are replacing light fixtures and moving to an LED system. The estimated cost of this lighting project is $52,000.00.

 

While the leaders here at Grace West didn’t plan for this work, this year, we know that the repairs will mean better lighting, lower power bills, a reduced carbon footprint, and an important investment in this beautiful building. All of us, and our home for worship and learning, fellowship and prayer will benefit from this upgrade. Our renters and the various community members who utilize the building will also notice a significant change in the lighting.

Today, I am writing to invite you to be part of the reserve of oil that keeps our lamps burning. Currently we have commitments and grants for $38,500.00 of the estimated cost of the lighting project. Between now and the end of April, the Official Board is looking to raise the remaining $13,500.00 in donations/pledges to complete the Oil For Our Lamps campaign. I am confident that the generous and faithful people at Grace-Westminster will share their oil and keep our lamps burning continually.

In the coming weeks, we will be have an Oil for Our Lamps poster in the Narthex with a running total of the current pledges/committed funds for the campaign. Also, in the hallway by the auditorium there will be an image of a lamp and as you make your pledge/offering you will be invited to include your name on one of the flames which will be posted there.

And so I ask you to prayerfully consider your gift to this important campaign. If you have any questions, or are in a position to donate a transfer of stocks or securities, please contact me or someone on the stewardship team. All gifts of any size are gratefully welcomed, and all donations will receive a charitable tax receipt. The Spirit is at work through the vision, leadership and generosity that drive Grace-Westminster UC. It is an exciting time to be part of this community of faith. Your gift between now and April 30 th will mean that our lamps will remain lit, providing light and love for so many that call the Grace-Westminster church building home.

With deep gratitude,

 

Janet Drysdale
Chairperson: Grace-Westminster Official Board