Dear St. Paul’s by the Sea Family,
This year’s stewardship theme, Giving with Joy, reminds us that generosity is not simply about supporting a budget—it’s about participating in resurrection life. In a Sunday sermon, I spoke about how Jesus invites us to see the world through the lens of resurrection, to live as though God’s Kingdom is already breaking through here and now. When we give, we are not just keeping the lights on; we are keeping the light shining. Every pledge, every act of service, every prayer is a declaration that life is stronger than fear and that hope still has the final word.
At St. Paul’s by the Sea, I see signs of that hope everywhere: in the choir’s growing energy under Matt’s leadership; in conversations during Coffee Hour; in the hands that tend our buildings and grounds, welcome newcomers, and feed our neighbors; and in the quiet faithfulness of prayer, study, and service that sustains our life together.
We give not out of obligation, but out of gratitude for all that God has already done and all that God is still doing in and through us. Each pledge is an act of hope: a way of saying yes to the ministry we share and to the future we believe God is calling us toward.
As you consider your 2026 pledge, we invite you to look at the step chart (click on the links to enlarge) and ask yourself, “What is God calling me to give?”. Your pledge commitment helps us plan faithfully for the year ahead – supporting worship, music, outreach, formation, and the daily work that keeps this church strong and vibrant.
Thank you for being part of this beloved community. Together, we are living into our calling to be A Community of Love: Anchored in Christ, Guided by the Spirit, Serving with Joy. May we continue to give with joy—because the dawn has broken, the light has come, and God’s Kingdom is already on the move among us.
With gratitude and blessings
The Rev. Victor Hailey
SPBTS 2026 Annual Giving Step Chart
