In September of 2017, the Trinity United Methodist Church Board of Trustees, under the leadership of Dr. George Morrison, sponsored a Long-Range Planning Committee to develop a 5-year strategic plan for the church. The Trustees appointed Jim Peterson as the Chair of the Long-Range Planning Committee. With the support of the church leadership team, the process of building a plan began. The plan was to be completed within a one-year period. Leadership committees were established under the guidance of Jay Roach, Kimi King and Tawny Rybowicz. Many church members participated in discussion groups. Many thanks to all who participated and supported this project with their thoughts and ideas.

Jim and his team clearly understood Jesus’ teaching in Luke 14:28-32 as they constructed this plan.

For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, saying, ‘This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.’ Or what king, going out to wage war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? If he cannot, then, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for the terms of peace.

Luke 14:28-32

As I read through the plan, I formulated the following summary in my mind:

“Gathering as God’s people to deepen our biblical knowledge and attain spiritual growth in discipleship so that we may be equipped to go out into the world to make disciples of Jesus Christ.”

Here is an easy way to remember this: “Gather, Grow, and Go.”

I’m thankful to be your pastor.

Love and Constant Prayers,

Rev. Jim