“Here I raise my Ebenezer; hither by thy help I’ve come.” (Early American Hymn) What is an “Ebenezer”? It’s from the Bible. Israel was facing a powerful enemy who had been defeating Israel and capturing its land piece by piece. The morning of the final battle, the voice of the Lord thundered over the battlefield, scattering the enemy. Israel regained its land, and lasting peace was established. In gratitude, the prophet Samuel built a memorial, calling it “Ebenezer” – Hebrew for “Thus far, the Lord has helped us.” (I Samuel 7:14)
As a parish family, we can raise our own Ebenezer monument, because the Lord has been our constant help through the Covid crisis. By God’s help, we’ve always had Mass, the Sacraments have been available, Religious Education has been in session, and our ministries of outreach to those in need have kept going. Today is an Ebenezer moment!
God also has sustained the financial support of your parish – another Ebenezer moment. We now invite you to make your financial commitment to the parish for 2022. Consider what amount you want to give to your parish in 2022, to help us grow and continue forward in the Lord’s path.
You can return this Stewardship of Treasure pledge card by mail, collection basked, or you can pledge online at www.staugustineoh.org.
Please return the enclosed pledge card today with your commitment, so that we can plan on a future. Or make your pledge below.
I retire in a few months. I’m thankful that I am closing my ministry in this faith-filled and grace filled parish. Certainly, God has led me to this place. Ebenezer!
Blessings,
Rev. Father Paul Pluth, Pastor
