“ Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver .” – 2 Corinthians 9:7
2024 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Schweitzer Church and the Foundation. True to our mission, we will serve the church, its people, and the broader community. We begin by giving thanks for God’s leading during this past year.
Looking back…
After months of preparation, we officially launched the Schweitzer Church Foundation in October of 2023. More than 100 interested, generous congregants gathered together. We enjoyed delicious desserts but, more importantly, gained inspiration from Lead Pastor Spencer Smith and Neil McCall, the Foundation president. Both leaders answered “the why” behind having a robust and active Schweitzer Church Foundation. Neil shared his heart for future generations as he explained how he and his wife, Carol, plan to leave a legacy gift via their estate trust or will:
“We will, of course, care for our family, but additionally, we want to care for the church and community. When we die, we plan to give 18% to Schweitzer and its missions, including the general fund, the Foundation, and Flourish CDC.”
Looking forward…
The primary purpose of the Foundation is to support the future needs and vision of the church. There are many avenues for this kind of support – including legacy gifts. Our mission means supporting our community and church by offering seminars on real-life and essential topics.
During April, we will offer the “Binder for Life” seminar. This 3-session class is beneficial for adults of all ages and stages of life. It is especially appreciated by those 50+ who want to ensure loved ones have the documents needed to manage their affairs should they become incapacitated or pass away. The class also creates an excellent outreach opportunity that is particularly well suited for participants to invite non- or nominally-religious friends or neighbors to church. Sheila Pippin and myself, along with Debbie Murray and Larry Dills will co-lead this class.
Regarding broader needs and vision, the Schweitzer Foundation will consider financially supporting expanding initiatives like new church plants, scholarships for the education and training of pastors and ministry leaders, updating our campus, and acquiring real estate. In all we do, we seek to listen to the Holy Spirit and invest where God leads, taking risks with God.
Want to know more about the Schweitzer Church Foundation? Email at foundation@schweitzer.church or reach out to any of the Schweitzer Foundation Board Members: Jim Mason (Director), Neil McCall (President), Judy Breeding (Vice President), Brett Foster, Carolyn Hoffman, Jenifer Roberts, John Travers, Phil Wieneke. Spencer Smith (Schweitzer Lead Pastor) and Donna Roberts (Schweitzer Church’s Chief Operating Officer).
foundation.schweitzer.church