Click here for the Binkley August 2026 Beacon

 

Binkley Church August 2026 Newsletter:

Pastor's Message

Executive Minister Rev. Kelsey Lewis Vincent reflects on the idea that the church is like a garden—healthy growth requires ongoing care, teamwork, and faithful service. She thanks volunteers and committee members for their work maintaining the church's ministries, finances, and facilities, and encourages others to become involved in serving the congregation.

Building & Facility Updates

The church continues addressing two major facility concerns:

  • Aging sewer lines that have caused bathroom closures and backups.
  • Water intrusion during heavy rains, affecting several areas of the building.
    Contractors are evaluating long-term solutions, with proposals being reviewed based on cost, effectiveness, and timeline.

Finance Update

As planning begins for the 2027 budget, the Finance Committee reports:

  • The new accounting structure using an outsourced business manager and financial coordinator is working well.
  • Monthly financial reporting has improved.
  • Stewardship planning is underway with Rev. Shelia Sholes-Ross leading the Stewardship Committee.
  • The committee continues coordinating budgeting, outreach funding, and endowment projects while maintaining responsible financial management.

Children & Youth Ministries

Highlights include:

  • Appreciation for everyone involved in this summer's Be-Loved Youth Camp.
  • Worship with Children offered during the August 2 and 16 worship services.
  • Sunday School resumes September 20.
  • Save the date for Trunk or Treat on October 28.
  • Camp with Friends is scheduled for March 5–7, 2027 for 2nd–5th graders.

Music Ministry

The music program resumes its fall schedule:

  • Chancel Choir rehearsals begin August 19; no audition is required.
  • Handbell Choir welcomes new members.
  • Upcoming music events include:
    • Jennifer Curtis violin recital (Aug. 9)
    • Taizé service and Summer Choir (Aug. 16)
    • "The Lisztian Way" piano recital (Aug. 21)
    • Music Extravaganza (Sept. 19)
    • All-Mozart concert (Sept. 27).

Congregational Life

The newsletter also features:

  • Photos from the Sound Bath, Body Prayer Workshop, E3 Art & STEM Camp, and the 2026 Women's Retreat.
  • An invitation for members to help shape future Women's Retreats by joining a planning team.

August Calendar Highlights

Regular activities include:

  • Sunday worship every week at 11:00 a.m.
  • Weekly Zoom Prayer gatherings on Wednesdays.
  • Binkley Bells rehearsals on Thursdays.
  • Deacons, Church Council, Music Committee, Grounds Committee, Quilts of Love, Yoga, and Justice for All Vigil meetings throughout the month.
  • September newsletter submissions are due August 17.

Overall Theme

The August newsletter emphasizes cultivation—of faith, community, stewardship, and service. Alongside practical updates on finances and building maintenance, it celebrates summer ministries and looks ahead to an active fall season of worship, music, education, and fellowship