In the six years I have served here at River of Life, we have seen God do some amazing things. We’ve had to make some difficult decisions about ministry and we have had to recover from some very traumatic events as a body. During these six years finances have always dogged us. We have had enough to survive and God has provided in many different ways. When we wanted to buy new chairs for the worship center we were able to raise the money to cover that purchase within a matter of months. When we needed to adjust our budget, we were able to raise the money we needed to continue to support the missionaries that we had committed to that year. However, there are major maintenance and repair issues that we can no longer put off if we are to remain in this facility. That is why the ministry leadership, myself, the Deacon Board and Denise Garcia have all agreed that we need to start a Capital Fund Drive. We need to raise 300,000 dollars by January 2012 above and beyond what we receive through tithes and offerings and current tuition payments.

Here are some of the urgent projects that we need to accomplish by that date:

• Complete the fire alarm system
• New Air Conditioners for the Main building and the office and classroom building
• New Parking Lot
• Replace the walkway upstairs in the back of the building
• Roof for the office and classroom building
• Demolition and remodeling of the old fellowship hall
• A New sign
• Paint the buildings
• Pay off $175,000 loan

As I stated earlier, some of these things are urgent and can wait no longer and we cannot wait until the $300,000 dollars has been raised to accomplish these tasks. The ministry leadership team will be meeting to set the priorities for these projects. We will be seeking to accomplish the most critical of these projects as soon as possible- that means when the money for a project is available we will begin the work on that project.

I know that times are tough for all or us, but I would challenge you to pray and see what God would have you give toward the Capital Fund Drive. Let me make sure that I am clear. What you give should be above and beyond your tithe, your tuition or any other regular contributions that you make to the ministries of River of Life Baptist Church. Therefore, please pray about giving a monthly gift to the capital fund drive for the next three years. Pray about a one-time donation to the fund drive. Give whatever God leads you to give and we will trust Him to multiply your generosity.

Gather and Go,

Pastor Dale