January 12, 2026
Dear Members and Friends,
Over the next few weeks, as we begin this new year, we will explore what God wants for us in our giving, separately and together. Making Room for Generosity will be an opportunity for each of us to reflect on the words of James 1:17, “Every generous act of giving…is from above,” and to consider all the ways in which God has given to us. The motivating prayer of our campaign is, “God, where do You want me to be in my giving?” On the final Making Room for Generosity Sunday, February 1st, we will offer Estimate of Giving Cards during our services as an integral part of our worship.
This year’s stewardship emphasis focuses specifically on supporting FPCA’s 2026 regular annual ministry and mission. Our congregation will have a separate opportunity in February and March to participate in our capital campaign, “Building a Wider Welcome,” with commitments spread over three years. I want to be clear about the timing and purpose of each: this current emphasis is about sustaining our ongoing ministries – our worship, education, pastoral care, mission, and daily operations – while our upcoming capital campaign will address property acquisition and specific facility improvements. Both are important, and both deserve our prayerful consideration as distinct expressions of our stewardship.
This stewardship season is meant to be a biblical and inspirational experience that engages us spiritually. Each person and family will be asked to consider The Giving Path and where God may be leading them. The focus of this approach is not the need of the church to fund a budget, but each person’s need to contribute proportionately from their resources as a part of their spiritual maturity and discipleship with Christ. We are asking everyone to consider moving further along The Giving Path as a response to all that God has given to them. Whether it is to begin the journey by starting to give, or to grow the percentage of your gift, the prayer, “God where do You want me to be in my giving?” will be our guide. For God is a generous giver, and our generosity flows from God’s generosity to us.
Enclosed with this letter is a statement of your gifts to FPCA for 2025 prepared by our Church Business Administrator. Over the next several Sundays, we will embark on this journey together to learn more about why we give and how your generosity through First Presbyterian Asheville is having an impact on people’s lives. It will be a special time together! I look forward to walking with you.
Grace and peace,
Rev. Patrick W. T. Johnson, Ph.D.
Pastor/Head of Staff