Riverpoint Congregational Church

"And there is hope for your future" says the Lord"

Jeremiah 31:17

Dear Folks,

You have had to be hiding under a rock to not notice that our world has changed within the last two years. Our economic system has come close to collapse. Financial institutions which were giants in the industry have disappeared over night. Unemployment is in double digits. The housing market has tanked. It is truly a different world.

These conditions have effected the churches as well. Within our community we have seen Bethesda House of Worship and Knightsville-Franklin Congregational church both close. At Riverpoint, we are attempting to be good stewards and weather this storm. Fund raisers are occurring more often and thanks be to God for those who organize, help and participate in those fund raisers. In the meantime, insurance and heating cost increase and every time the West Warwick Fire Department walks through our doors, the investment is four digits. Our endowments have dwindled to the point that we cannot count on them for support.

The importance of a balanced budget is more important than it ever has been. We cannot continue to have the same budget emphasis we did in the 1950's because we are not the same church now as we were then. Change is needed in the way we manage our church financially if we are to continue to provide the services and programs to the West Warwick Community.

On Sunday January 17, following the worship service, there will be a special financial meeting of the church to reach a balanced budget as best we can. This is an important meeting in the life and future of our church and you are encouraged to attend and bring with you your ideas.

With God's help we can weather this storm as we have successfully weathered other storm in the past, Jeremiah's words are comforting as we realize our Lord has promised good to us and we cling to that promise.

See you in church.

Pastor Larry