Town Hall Update - September 7, 2025
Dear ACC Family,
I want to take a few moments to share some important updates with you as we begin the fall season together.
- Budget Update
As many of you know, our church has faced ongoing financial challenges over the past two years. I mentioned this briefly in May, but I want to ensure everyone is fully informed as we move forward.
Because of these constraints, we have had to make some very difficult decisions regarding our staffing. Three part-time staff positions have been discontinued:
- Miriam’s Administrative role
- Annette’s Children’s Ministry position
- The Youth Director position
In addition, I have voluntarily reduced my own salary by $10,000 in order to help ease the strain on our budget.
We will be holding our Annual Budget Meeting in late October, and I strongly encourage you to attend. This will be an opportunity to ask questions and to gain a clearer understanding of the financial direction of our church.
- Shepherding Plan
Our Session has recently approved a new shepherding plan for ACC. This includes both our elders and three women shepherdesses who will help us provide greater care for our congregation. Later this year, you will be hearing from your shepherd or shepherdess as they reach out to check in with you and ask how we can be praying for you. Each member will have a designated shepherding contact, giving you a clear point of connection here at ACC. - Discipleship Plan
Back in May, I mentioned the beginnings of a new discipleship ministry, and I’m glad to share that we have been able to formalize this further. Over the course of this year, I will be developing leaders who will help us roll out a discipleship curriculum next Fall. I am truly excited about this opportunity, as I believe it will be a meaningful way for us to grow deeper in our faith as the body of Christ. - Reminders for Fall
- Community Groups: Beginning the week of September 21, 2025, Community Groups will start again. This is the time to sign up and secure your spot.
- Prayer Gatherings: Sunday morning prayer will resume, along with a weekly evening prayer time. More details will follow soon.
- Fall Potluck: Don’t forget to sign up for our potluck at the synagogue. This is a wonderful way to kick off the season and enjoy fellowship over home-cooked food!
- Apple Picking: Saturday, October 18, we are planning an apple-picking outing. If you are interested—and especially if you are able to drive and provide transportation—please let us know.
I am grateful for each of you and for the ways God continues to sustain and guide our church through every season. Thank you for your prayers, your commitment, and your care for one another.
With gratitude in Christ with You
Pastor Jim