Dear Siblings in Christ,

Ever wonder why Jesus taught through questions and parables, rather than easy, straight-forward answers? Because curiosity and faith are deeply intertwined. Faith isn’t about having all the answers, but a willingness to ask honest, open questions: What new thing is God growing in our midst? Where do we notice God’s Spirit already moving in our community? How can we respond with generosity, joy, and courage?

At Brecksville United Methodist Church, we’ve seen again and again that when we ask questions with open hands and willing hearts, God leads us to surprising, grace-filled places. This year we’ve embodied honest worship that speaks to the variety of life; shown courageous inclusion that welcomes all into God’s grace; practiced determined service that meets tangible needs with food and connection; embodied lifelong learning that deepens faith through open conversation; and experienced joyful gathering that builds community and celebrates our uniqueness. We’ve welcomed new faces, served our neighbors, and continued to be a presence of compassion in a world that needs it so very much.

Your giving makes all of this possible. It sustains the ministries that touch lives within our walls and beyond them. It provides sacred, safe space for seekers and long-timers alike to grow with God and one another. It helps us listen for where God is leading next and respond with faith and courage. Thank you for the gifts you’ve given to Brecksville United Methodist Church!

Our impact report shared some specific details of what we’ve been able to do together in 2025. But our 2026 Pledge Campaign isn’t about funding what we did last year; it’s about fueling the vision for what God is calling us to be next year!

Imagine a young family finding their spiritual home, a mission team bringing food to the hungry, or a lonely person finding companionship and care. These aren’t just hopeful dreams — it’s the reality of Brecksville UMC’s daily impact that your generosity makes possible.

On October 26 we will celebrate Commitment Sunday. You’re invited to bring your pledge card, prayerfully filled-out, so that we can pray God’s blessing over our future gifts.

The pledge card includes a place for you to indicate your pledge to the general operating budget, as well as a place to indicate your giving to the Planned Expense Fund (PEF). 

If you prefer, you can fill out your pledge card electronically, through our secure website. Your gifts are always confidential, and your pledge can be changed at any time for any reason.

• The general operating budget pays for things such as staff and pastor salaries, utilities, and many mission & community engagement opportunities. 
• The Planned Expense Fund is specifically used for larger repairs and updates of the physical church building (planned expenses). 

Both are integral to continuing our mission to create safe spaces to grow with God and one another.

In whatever ways you choose to give, know that your pledge is a statement of belief in the profound work we do together—serving, teaching, and uplifting our community through honest worship, determined service, lifelong learning, courageous inclusion, and joyful gathering. Because when we give together, we make room for God to do more than any of us could imagine!

Let’s stay curious, faithful, and generous—trusting that God will continue to lead us in a radical faith that challenges fear, scarcity, and despair with God’s healing abundance, and love.

With gratitude and hope,

Rev. Heidi Welch, Senior Pastor, Brecksville United Methodist Church