Dec. 15, 2008 issue
Mission festival shines brightly
Berne, Ind., congregation meets giving goal of $190,000
By Aimee SiebertPage:
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While the economy was giving people a reason to avoid asking for money, First Mennonite Church of Berne, Ind., set an ambitious goal for its weeklong mission festival.
“We set the same goal as last year, which was $190,000,” said Pastor Jerry Flueckiger.
The congregation knew they might not reach that mark, but that was no reason not to try.
“We have optimism coupled with realism,” Flueckiger said.
Their hope became reality through generous gifts. By Dec. 9, six days before the deadline for festival donations, First Mennonite had surpassed its goal, reaching $192,566.
The mission festival took place during the week of Thanksgiving, Nov. 22-30. The theme was “Shine Brightly for Christ.” The money raised supports 17 missionaries and 16 mission programs.
Contributions late in the week and after the festival put the goal within reach.
“We’ve taken in $184,261 as of today,” Flueckiger said on Dec. 3. “We’re happy with that. The last Sunday morning of the festival, we jumped from $75,000 to $163,000. We are pleased that it came that close.”
The goal’s nearness inspired post-festival giving, which put the church beyond the $190,000 mark. How far beyond will be determined when festival giving ends Dec. 15.
The funds raised during the mission festival are not the only money that First Mennonite Church contributes to missions.
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