Dear friends,
The past several months have been rich and full here at St. Clement’s – a beautiful expression of what learning to follow Jesus looks like in this place, at this time. As I reflect on the Giving for Growth campaign, a few things stand out for me.
Deep and wide engagement
It has been encouraging to see just how many are engaged in this campaign. So many of you have opened your doors to listen and talk about what Giving for Growth is all about. Others have connected on Sundays, asking great questions, and offering important feedback. And it’s not only the worshipping community of St. Clement’s who have been engaged. Community partners and neighbours are also keen on supporting this place, recognizing the value that St. Clement’s adds to mid-town Toronto.
Creativity and innovation
Creativity and innovation about what learning to follow Jesus looks like is part of what it means to engage in ministry today and we are learning so much through this campaign, for which I give great thanks! We are looking at the gift of our church building in innovative ways; actively considering our impact on the environment and how our physical space can be in better harmony with creation and exploring the possibilities of using our space in new ways that are helping to inform upgrades. We are paying close attention to the robust online worship experience engagement and exploring how we can better serve those who connect digitally, the majority of whom are seniors. We will learn how to better support multi-faith families and consider how to engage more intentionally with the growing young adult population in the church and neighbourhood. All of this involves stretching our imaginations and trusting that God is with us in it!
Renewed community
After the displacement of the pandemic and a few years of figuring out how to be together again, I believe this campaign has helped us to see that St. Clement’s is a community that is being renewed by God. Focused on growth, we have come together as those with a deep commitment to learning to follow Jesus and it is clear to me that there is a deep hope that anchors this campaign. A hope that St. Clement’s will continue to be a place of welcome and sharing God’s love for years to come.
In the weeks to come we will begin to make our way back from summer vacation (I’m writing this in late July as I prepare to head out for my time of rest and renewal) and reengage in our normal routines. Our dedicated campaign volunteers will also be back at it, connecting with you and sharing more about what’s to come. Please continue to talk with Campaign Ambassadors, ask questions, offer feedback, and stay connected.
Deep and wide engagement. Creativity and innovation. Renewed community. This campaign is about so much more than fundraising. It’s about supporting a community that is committed to the bold call to serve the world God loves.
God truly is up to something incredible at St. Clement’s. Thank you for being part of it!
Yours in ministry,
Pamela Rayment
Associate Rector
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