Dear Rev. Mason,

Grace and peace to you in the name of the risen Christ! We in the Central Pennsylvania Conference are committed to "Making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world." That can only happen if each congregation is fully engaged in becoming the disciple-making people God has called you to be.

One of the measures of the health of a congregation is its willingness to reach out to others with extravagant generosity. We live with a biblical mandate to share our resources. At a recent Cabinet meeting we spent time identifying congregations which we believe demonstrate this extravagant generosity. We understand that for many years you have supported the Matthew 25 fund, an outreach mission to the Onondaga Nation in New York as well as your ongoing ‘Come to the Banquet’ ministry. In addition you continue to make space available in a spirit of hospitality and outreach for community groups to use your facilities. These acts of generosity are a powerful witness. We know that hope is born anew because of what you give to others.

I trust you will share this letter with your Ministry Council and perhaps spend a few moments discussing what you are now doing as well as other ways that you could provide opportunities for people to give their resources so that others might know Christ.

Thank you for your ministry in Lewistown and beyond. You are in my prayers and those of the District Superintendent as together we continue to do whatever is necessary to proclaim the saving message of Jesus Christ.

In Christ’s Service

Bishop Jane Allen Middleton