Dear Friends,

Many of you know that New Goshenhoppen is at a crossroads at the present time. This is because we (probably) have a once in a lifetime opportunity to expand and grow our ministry and mission in new and exciting, yet faithful ways. Because we have secured additional funding from preserving our farmland, we have resources to use for God’s glory that we did not have before. In light of the challenge ahead, we have formed a task force entitled Second Mile Task Force to act as a visionary for us and to eventually come to the congregation with a proposal of what New Goshenhoppen will look like in the years ahead.

Twelve persons are serving on this task force. We are meeting on a regular basis. All are deeply aware of the gravity and grace of their task. Together we have prayed for God’s guidance in discernment. Together we have signed a working covenant through which we have agreed to learn together, pray together, and listen for the voice of the Holy Spirit, the poor, and the wider church before forming conclusions. We have also agreed that we will not divide or politic for any special interest group or business methods. We know these funds are not ours to keep. We are caretakers, stewards of this money. At the present time, we are studying what it means to be in the Church of Jesus Christ. Together we are looking at Biblical sources, the wisdom of the United Church of Christ Statement of Faith, and at our own New Goshenhoppen character and history.

Based on these foundations, we are listing implications for our ministry. Here is just a sample of some of these. We are discovering that:

The Church is from generation to generation. We want to create something that can be passed on. We have a big chance to do some-thing with joy. We must imagine what future historians will think of the decisions we make. The church is for all people. God has no boundaries. Christian charity should always be given without judgment and with humility. Our decisions must be based less on concern for being popular and more concern on doing the right thing.  We ask for your prayers and your support. Pray that we proceed growing together and continue to go the second mile into faith.

We will keep you informed of our travels on this spiritual pilgrimage.

Thank you,