October 2026

 

Dear Emmanuel Family,

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These first few weeks as Priest-in-Charge at Emmanuel Church have been an incredible blessing to Valerie and me. Thank you for welcoming us so warmly into this faithful and active congregation. We are deeply grateful that God has called us to this community.

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I see tremendous opportunities for Emmanuel in the year ahead. As we rediscover why we gather on Sundays and what it means to be beloved children of God, we can invite others to experience the dignity, forgiveness, love, and reconciliation found in Christ. The Holy Spirit brought Valerie and me to Emmanuel, and that same Spirit continues to guide us as we seek new ways to serve our community and discern where God is calling us.

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Emmanuel has been a pillar of Mercer Island, and its spirit of hospitality reflects our mission to share Christ’s love with the world. I am especially inspired by Emmanuel’s spirit of seeking and questioning. As Episcopalians, we draw upon Scripture, tradition, and reason, and at Emmanuel these three are beautifully balanced. Our ministries (Bible study, book group, meditation, worship, outreach, Pea Patch, Soup Group and more) continue to build up the family of God and plant seeds of faith for generations to come.

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There is wonderful work already happening here, and I am grateful for everyone who gives their time, talent, and treasure. Because of you, lives are changed, faith is nurtured, and Christ’s love is made visible. To build on this work, however, we need your help. Rising costs for utilities, maintenance and insurance, along with needed repairs and updates to our beautiful campus, require additional resources. We also hope to strengthen our presence in the wider community through events and ministries such as Oktoberfest, Vacation Bible School, and opportunities to showcase our extraordinary music program. 

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As we begin our 2027 stewardship campaign, I ask you to prayerfully consider how God is calling you to support Emmanuel’s ministry. Your pledge makes a real and immediate difference in what we are able to do, from worship and pastoral care to outreach, formation, and service in our community. We are asking those who pledged last year to consider increasing their pledge by 5%, and we hope to welcome at least five new pledging households. If you have not pledged before, please consider doing so this year. Every gift makes a difference and helps us create a place where people encounter God’s love and experience the Kingdom of God among us.

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You may return the enclosed pledge card by mail or place it in the offering plate on Sunday. You may also pledge online by scanning the QR code on the card. Please also consider remembering Emmanuel in your estate planning. Legacy gifts help ensure that the ministry we share today will continue to bless generations to come. 

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Thank you for your prayers, your service, your generosity, and your faith. I am excited about what God is doing among us and what lies ahead. May God bless and keep you, now and always.

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In loving kindness,

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Rev. Theodore “Ted” Renaud
Priest-in-Charge