Back to school Prayer for our kids

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the gift of this new school year and the chance for a fresh start. I pray over my child as they head into the classroom, hallways, and friendships that will shape this season of their life. Give them courage when things feel uncertain. Give them kindness when they see someone left out. Give them joy in the moments that feel mundane. Help them to be a light in their school-not because they’re perfect or have it all together, but because they know they are loved by You. May their confidence be rooted not in grades, friends, or achievements-but in who You say they are: chosen, known, and dearly loved. Protect their hearts, strengthen their minds, and remind them they’re never alone.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

“A note from the Pastor”

Great question: "If our focus is paying off the mortgage,

why are we doing all these projects?"

The answer is simple: eliminating the mortgage remains our top priority, and every current project is safely funded through existing maintenance budgets, grants, and designated gifts!

Burn the Mortgage Progress Our 2026 goal is to completely pay off our mortgage and balance the operating budget. Thanks to incredible generosity in the “Burn the Mortgage Campaign” this spring, church leaders contributed over $450,000 and EYLC contributed $50,000. This allowed us to recast our loan—slashing our monthly payment from $9,500 down to $3,500 and freeing up $6,000 every month for vital ministry! This fall, we look forward to inviting the whole congregation to help us erase the rest.

Caring for Our Church Home At the same time, our financial plan also address maintenance that affects safety, ministry effectiveness, and the long-term value of our campus:

• Budgeted Maintenance: Using our designated $30,000 maintenance budget, trustees have seal-coated the pavement, waxed floors, repaired HVAC units, and upgraded internet utilities. These necessary projects extend the useful life of our facilities and equipment, helping us avoid more costly repairs in the future.

• Campus Safety: FEMA grant funding fully covered the installation of safety bollards to protect pedestrian areas.

• New Playground: EYLC fully funded a brand-new playground for our children—adding a vibrant new space without taking a single dollar from our mortgage campaign or operating budget! We are grateful for this investment in our children.

We are moving forward into a strong, sustainable financial future and a safe, well-maintained church home. Thank you for your prayers, service, and generosity.

Pastor Jenny, Dave Schafer (Campaign Manager), Mark Gage (Trustee Chair).