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As the session examined our financial situation for 2012, it became clear to us that we face a significant challenge. The anticipated difference between our income and expenses, if left unaddressed, would essentially eliminate our reserves at the end of the calendar year. We have taken this as an opportunity to act. And in doing so, we want to be sure to communicate those actions to you as we also seek your input moving forward:

1. Maintenance: As we inhabit an aging building, there are always maintenance items to address. Several large maintenance projects loom this year, particularly related to the heating and cooling of significant portions of the building. Ideally, we would confront them proactively, but we have chosen to defer them as long as possible. When the time comes, we will turn to you to help meet those needs. We are also exploring the feasibility of a capital campaign this year to assist with these and begin some of the long-term process of building improvement.

2. Building Usage Income: We have also increased our building use income significantly, especially from our Preschool ministry. As you all know, OPP is a critical mission of our congregation, and has provided both tangible and intangible value to the church through the years, including the overhaul of our playground and the renovation of our Fellowship Hall and Education wing. Their contribution to the church in 2012 will be more than twice what it was in 2011, hopefully reflecting a more realistic sense of the maintenance costs. We are in the process of a fuller examination of these costs as we move forward so that OPP can remain a vital ministry of our church.

3. Staffing: We have also set a goal of reducing our staffing costs which, realistically, means a reduction. However, we do not currently have a specific plan as to what changes should be made. This, above all, is where we need your input, because it is clear that our staffing needs should reflect our ministry priorities as a congregation. We expect to have those priorities clearly laid out by the end of February and plan to staff accordingly soon after Easter.

4. Your Input: We eagerly seek your input in this process. First, we have created a congregation-wide survey which is available both online here and in the Narthex. Second, a town hall forum will be held on Sunday, January 29, at OPC to discuss results of the survey and proposed changes to the 2012 budget.

Of course, we always welcome your feedback and input on any and all of these matters. Simply contact one of our elders on session.

We remain grateful to each of you for all that you do to support OPC and make it the community that it is. We appreciate your prayerful input as we find faithful and creative ways to continue our ministry in Christ's name.

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