We are so grateful for 2024 and all God has provided through our Schweitzer Church Foundation. After beginning the Foundation in 2022 and “getting our feet under us,” 2024 has been one of real impact and vision.
The Foundation exists to further the vision and mission of Schweitzer Church while also serving our congregation. We have received gifts over many years (legacy resources, wills, real estate, stock proceeds, etc.) and greatly appreciate the generosity of others. Guided by the Foundation Board*, we steward these resources, managing them wisely, ready to respond to requests from church leadership. These requests are typically for needs outside the church’s operating budget.
To serve the congregation and community, we provide classes twice a year to help people in practical ways while creating a lasting legacy. Our Foundation-sponsored classes** include Having the Last Word and Binder For Life***. These classes have been well received and appreciated by many.
“I love how the foundation-sponsored classes provide information & guidelines about difficult or confusing subjects. Both classes can result in peace of mind and can even open the door for difficult conversations.”
—Debbie Murray
“…the Binder for Life class is a helpful and fun way to get organized and prepared so we can leave our children the info they need. Also, our wishes. Our Binder will make it less stressful for everyone…”
—Freddie Lane
We were excited and gratified to receive a request this past fall to support the creation of live streaming for our congregation and the broader community. The Foundation provided a $54,500 gift to purchase the equipment that allowed Schweitzer to begin live streaming weekly worship services, events, celebrations of life, etc., enhancing our mission and giving others a real sense of connection with God and the church. Live streaming can increase engagement with those in the pews, hospitals, and beyond—blessing people in a timely, deeply spiritual, and practical way.
As we look forward to 2025, we know God is working and seeks to use Schweitzer to advance the Gospel, giving others a living hope—here, across the street, and around the world. Our Foundation seeks to wisely provide resources to our leadership in a timely manner, impacting our mission now. We also continue to seek and receive financial gifts, stewarding them judiciously and for generations to come—creating a lasting legacy! We hope with confidence and prayer that 2025 will be another blessed year. Thanks be to God!
Have a blessed New Year!
*The Foundation Board consists of up to nine members chosen and approved by Schweitzer leadership, typically serving three-year terms.
**Having the Last Word…a two-session class helps one shape and create their celebration of life, funeral, conversations with loved ones, etc. Pastors and a local funeral director lead this experience.
***Binder for Life is a three-session class that assists attendees in organizing their affairs (documents, wills/trusts, final wishes, etc.) into a binder to be provided to loved ones, easing stress and anxiety for all.