Welcoming Children – A Strategic Plan Update
On Sunday, September 24, 2023 a Church Conference was held to vote on beginning a capital campaign. A brief presentation was given by Pastor Karen and Brandy Edmonds and Hilarie Dorsey from the Operations Team. The capital campaign addresses current needs in the education wing (air conditioning, new heating system, air exchange) along with additional renovations to allow us to open a child care center (new bathrooms on the upper level, egress doors from the classrooms on the lower level, sidewalk on Beard Avenue, installation of non-porous, washable material for the floor, walls and ceiling of the basement kitchen.
This was followed by questions, answers, and comments. The energy was very positive with several speakers expressing their support for expanding our ministry to include high quality childcare, with a sliding fee scale/scholarships for families that need assistance. Several retired clergy, who are not eligible to vote at a Church Conference, offered their support, and encouragement as the congregation steps out in faith. Affirmation for the Lake Harriet Preschool was offered by several.
The congregation paused for prayer before the vote, asking God to guide our church and our decisions, and a prayer for unity whatever the outcome of the vote. The vote was 67 yes votes, 0 no votes, and 2 abstentions. Following the vote, Rev. David McBride offered prayer.
The capital campaign goal is $300,000. The timeframe for the campaign is 18 months beginning January 1, 2024. Church attenders (members, guests & constituents) are asked to prayerfully consider how they can support the capital campaign. Those who are ready to make a pledge may do so by clicking the Donate button below.
Look for updates in the bulletin, e-news, and website as the capital campaign and the building renovations proceed.
Thank you, Lake Harriet for welcoming children!
Read our Q&A document, addressing concerns from LHUMC Members.
August 27, 2023 Video Presentation Introduction of Capital Campaign Plan
On Sunday, August 27, 2023 a team of five; Pastor Karen Bruins, Søren Bijnagte, Dawn Uribe,
Brandy Edmonds and Hilarie Dorsey, gave an update on the strategic plan, and an exciting way for us to welcome and serve the children of our church, the Lake Harriet Preschool and the children and families of our community.
Download the presentation slides:
In 2022 church leaders and staff created the strategic plan for the next 3-5 years.
There are five bold steps that have been sharpened and refined as teams work on each step.
1) Advocate for racial and housing justice.
2) Connection groups
3) Deepen the spiritual well
4) Open a fully accredited child care center to serve the needs of our community.
5) Sanctuary updates and improvements
There are five bold steps that have been sharpened and refined as teams work on each step.
1) Advocate for racial and housing justice.
2) Connection groups
3) Deepen the spiritual well
4) Open a fully accredited child care center to serve the needs of our community.
5) Sanctuary updates and improvements
View detailed information in the Introduction Flyer:
Questions may also be submitted via email to church@lakeharrietumc.org
Please join us in praying for our church and community.
Long-time members the Moffitts talk about the value of this capital campaign.
