Building something enduring requires courage, sacrifice and vision. Our ancestors knew this well. When they mortgaged their homes to build our churches, they weren’t simply constructing a building — they were laying a foundation of faith, community and hope for generations to come. Their legacy is more than bricks and mortar; it is the living testimony of their belief in a future they would never fully see. Today, as we look ahead, we are called to reflect on the past, embrace the present and boldly plan for what comes next. In this spirit, we seek to make all things new — not by forgetting our heritage, but by honoring it through wise stewardship and visionary action.
The planning process for our future must begin with gratitude. We stand on holy ground made sacred by the sacrifices of those before us. Every pew, every window, every echo of a hymn reminds us of the faith-filled men and women who gave generously and prayed fervently so that we might gather today. Their stories urge us to ask: What legacy do we want to leave for future generations? Will we be remembered as faithful stewards who rose to meet the moment, or as those who let opportunity slip by?
Our world is changing rapidly. Demographics shift, neighborhoods evolve and the needs of our community are not what they were even 20 years ago. If we are to remain a vibrant, relevant and welcoming church, we must adapt with wisdom and foresight. This means engaging in careful, prayerful planning that accounts for who we are now and who we hope to become. It means investing in ministries that reflect our diverse community, embracing new technologies that enhance worship and outreach and creating spaces that foster connection and spiritual growth.
Wise stewardship is more than managing resources well, it’s aligning them with our mission. Just as our ancestors risked financial security for the sake of the Gospel, we are called to make bold, faith-filled decisions that prioritize eternal impact over temporary comfort. Stewardship requires us to ask hard questions: Are we using our buildings, budgets and time in ways that reflect God’s priorities? Are we preparing not only for sustainability, but for thriving?
As we move forward, we must dream with our feet firmly planted in history and our eyes fixed on the horizon. “All things new” does not mean abandoning tradition; it means renewing it with purpose. It means creating a Church where children will grow up knowing they are loved, where seekers find belonging and where the Gospel is proclaimed to a world in need.
Our ancestors gave all they had to build a place for us. Now, it is our turn to build in a different way for those yet to come. With gratitude for the past and hope for the future, let us move forward together, making all things new.
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Create second guidebook
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Prepare for and lead third ATN committee meeting
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Develop a communication strategy at local level
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Engage larger communities for input in creating a plan
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Participate in third committee meeting
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Pray for the process, good discernment, respectful conversations
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Engage in feedback/input meetings
Brenda Kresky is the diocesan director of planning for the Diocese of St. Cloud.