Copyright © 2003 The Episcopal Diocese of East Tennessee

My fellow Episcopalians,

As chairwoman of the Steering Committee for the Grow in Mission Campaign, I would like to give you an update.

Many of you and many of our churches have responded to the vision and have participated by giving and pledging to this campaign.

As of August 25th, the total raised and pledged was $1,985, 482. Of that amount, $1,113,214 has been given or pledged by 172 individuals, and $872,268 has come from churches and the Episcopal Commission of Southeast Tennessee.

We are very grateful for the generosity of all who have participated in the campaign. Because the monetary goal has not been reached and because the needs are real, we are extending the campaign.

The focus of the Grow in Mission Campaign is on the future of our church in East Tennessee with a special emphasis on our youth. As we are well aware, our young people are our future. This campaign addresses them in three areas: as youth, as college students and as seminarians.

Grace Point Camp and Retreat Center has been providing a special place for fun, Christian education and nourishment of our young people for the past two summers and at other times throughout the year.

This summer 126 campers and 50 counselors from more than 30 parishes attended the camp sessions. While that number is good, it can be much larger when we have been able to build cabin and dining facilities.

A number of adult groups have been to Grace Point over the summer also. Here again, because of limited facilities, the number that can be accommodated at any one time is small. Even with these restrictions, Grace Point is proving to be a real asset in the diocese that gives a place for us to come together as a diocesan family.

Colleges are back in session and we want to be there for our young adults on campuses in Johnson City, Knoxville and Chattanooga. The college years are vital in faith development for this age group and the church’s presence can help reach out to these students in caring ways.

This year we have 11 attending seminary from this diocese. Their expenses are great. We would like to be able to meet more of their financial burden so that they will graduate with as little debt as possible and may pursue God’s call wherever it takes them.

These needs when met will strengthen and add vitality to the Church in East Tennessee.

As Bishop von Rosenberg said last month in his letter, “We need many more pledges – and we need some big ones, too – if we are to realize our hopes.”

I ask those who have not made a pledge or gift to please consider doing so. Our youth need and deserve your support. Your gift will make a difference. For further information, you may call the diocesan office at 865-966-2110.

Faithfully yours,

Norma Mills