May - Crosspoint United Methodist Church

PAGE 14 CROSSPOINT NEWS
CHILDREN HELPING CHILDREN
Our children are always eager to help others – an endearing quality. One way that is available, is to
help other children – at the Food Pantry. So, please allow your child to choose something at the
grocery store that they can donate at church, to that child that is not so blessed. Show your children
how to count their blessings, and be a blessing. Each month we have a focus.
This month, we are collecting Apple Sauce (jars or lunch packs). All items must be new and unopened. Items can
be dropped off in the Food Pantry collection carts.
PERKING POINT UPDATE by Jennifer Williams
In December 2010 the congregation voted overwhelmingly to open a coffee shop
and a new campus in a strip mall on Route 39. God’s dream and CrossPoint
Church’s dream became a reality last September. We knew it would be hard, but we
discerned together that God was leading us in a new and unexpected direction.
Now after six months, times are getting difficult and we need your help and support.
The plan was to use part of the loan for the entire first year of operating expenses. (please see Church Conference
minutes from 12/10.) Unfortunately, construction costs went over budget by $35,000 and we contracted with a
reputable General Contractor who has since gone out of business. These overages have eaten into our cash cushion.
The Perking Point will now use up the last of its cash reserves sometime by the end of May.
Church Council has been addressing this situation every month and the business team of the Perking Point has
been working to increase cash flow and lower costs. Over the past six months we have: advertised through mailers/
coupons, handed out free samples at every Giant gas rewards day, contacted local businesses for support, adjusted
products to lower costs and cut staff hours to the absolute bare minimum needed for operation.
On Tuesday evening, April 17, Church Council took more severe action including, cutting operational hours, asking
for more unpaid staff verses paid staff and examining every product we sell, including the coffee selection. Church
Council also authorized the use of CrossPoint Church funds to cover any Perking Point costs through May 2012.
While the coffee shop has suffered over the last six months, worship attendance and giving @ South Hanover has
grown exponentially (53% and 17% respectively). Every week we have someone who signs the Communication
Card saying they found church by buying a cup of coffee at the Perking Point.
Just as you helped to discern God’s Will nearly 18 months ago, your help is desperately needed again. Here is how
you can help your church:
� Pray – We believe in a God who can do all things. Pray God will do all things at the Perking Point and in
CrossPoint Church!
� Serve – If you would like to be a barista and are willing to serve as an unpaid staff member, you are needed!
Come out and be trained and help serve coffee.
� Give – God calls us to give all of ourselves including our finances. Support this amazing ministry that is
changes lives for Jesus Christ. If you would like to give over and above your regular tithing, please designate
on the gift/check Perking Point support.
� Share – Tell your friends and neighbors about the Perking Point. Take someone out for a cup of coffee.
Spread the word about this place to share THE WORD.