First Presbyterian Church

September 17, 2026

 

Members and Friends of First Presbyterian Church of Berthoud,

“She has been a benefactor of many and of myself, as well.” This is how the Apostle Paul described the deacon Pheobe, the woman Paul trusted to deliver and interpret his letter to the Romans (Romans 16:1-2). The Greek word for “benefactor” in this verse means a wealthy patron who underwrote the needs of both individuals and public institutions. Though we don’t know how Phoebe became a woman with such means, it’s clear that she used the abundance God had given her to support Paul’s ministry financially. But Phoebe wasn’t alone. Elsewhere Paul names several others who supported him in various seasons of his ministry. A man named Gaius provided room and board in Corinth for Paul (Romans 16:23). A woman named Lydia hosted Paul while he was preaching in Philippi (Acts 16:14-15). Epaphroditus delivered an offering from the Philippian church to Paul while he was imprisoned (Philippians 4:18). Because of their generosity and service, Paul was able to proclaim freely “the gospel which is God’s saving power for everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).

As Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Berthoud, I am grateful for your generosity which supports all our church does together to proclaim the love of Christ. I see the way you share your spiritual gifts – the voices that sing in worship, the care and compassion you show one another, the donations you give to those in need, the time you sacrifice to care for our church building, the behind-the-scenes work of ushers and communion preparers, and the work you put into hosting memorial service receptions and church potlucks. I also know that you are generous with your financial gifts. For 2026, you stepped out in faith and committed to an increased budget with a full-time pastor. The fact that giving has increased to meet that need is a sign that God is at work and our church is thriving.

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As we look ahead to 2027, I invite you to continue sharing your gifts in support of our church’s mission. For some, that may mean offering your time in a new form of service. Perhaps God is calling you to share your musical talents, to volunteer with the youth group, or to serve as an elder or deacon. For others, sharing your gifts may mean giving financially for the first time. For still others, it may mean renewing and even increasing your giving. Each of you is a benefactor of First Presbyterian Church of Berthoud in one way or another and each and every gift makes a difference. 

 

To help us plan for the coming year, we ask those who worship with us regularly to let us know how you intend to give and what ways you feel called to serve. Attached is a special card where you can indicate your responses. If you worship with us in person, you can bring your card with you to worship on Stewardship Sunday, October 18, at 10:00 a.m., when we will collectively offer these commitments to God. You may also mail your commitment card back to the church in the enclosed envelope. Your responses will inform our 2027 budget and our nominees for new officers in the church, all of which will be presented at our Annual Congregational Meeting on November 15, following worship. 

Thank you for supporting First Presbyterian Church. May the Holy Spirit guide your discernment. 

Grace and Peace, 

 

Pastor Chris