A Word from Pastor Courtney Mackey
Dear Friends of Laguna Beach United Methodist Church,
Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus. As we prepare for 2027 and the 75th anniversary of Laguna Beach United Methodist Church, we do so with gratitude for all God has already accomplished—and with faith for the ministry still ahead. Our stewardship theme, Now More Than Ever, expresses both the urgency and the opportunity of this moment.
Now more than ever, our community needs a church that welcomes without exception, serves with compassion, worships with joy, and brings love to life. Now more than ever, we are called to invest in children and families, deepen discipleship, care for one another, serve our neighbors, and prepare our campus for generations still to come.
Our stewardship campaign will begin on Sunday, September 27, and conclude on Commitment Sunday, October 25. On
October 4 and 11, Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts will be offered after worship downstairs. Our Ministry Fair on Sunday,
October 18, will then offer opportunities to discover how you can share your time, talents, and spiritual gifts.
I invite you to take three important steps:
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Pray. Ask God how you and your household are being called to participate in the ministry of Laguna Beach UMC in 2027.
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Pledge. Consider renewing your commitment and, if possible, increasing it. Every pledge—regardless of its size—helps us plan responsibly and serve faithfully.
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Participate. Find a place to worship, grow, serve, and build relationships. Stewardship is about offering our whole lives to God.
Because of your generosity, Laguna Beach UMC is growing in membership, ministry, and impact. During our last stewardship campaign, 83 households pledged $426,483—an extraordinary expression of faith and commitment. For 2027, our goal is to receive $475,000 in pledges, with a stretch goal of $500,000. Reaching this goal will help us sustain our expanding ministries, strengthen our financial foundation, and faithfully embrace the opportunities before us.
Estimates of giving may be submitted through Tithely, our new online giving platform, or by returning the enclosed commitment card. To pledge online, click the pledge link in the eBreeze or scan the QR code included with this letter to go directly to our 2027 pledge page. If you would like help using Tithely, a Tithely information session will be offered in conjunction with our Leadership Board meeting on Sunday, September 27. Our church team will be available to answer
questions and walk you through the process.
I believe God has positioned Laguna Beach UMC for such a time as this. We honor the faithful people who built this church by ensuring that its ministry remains strong, welcoming, and life-giving for those who will come after us. Together, we can enter our 75th year with courage, generosity, and hope. Thank you for all the ways you bring love to life. Now more than ever, our church—and our world—needs the ministry we share.
With gratitude and hope,
Rev. Courtney J. Mackey, Senior Pastor
Laguna Beach United Methodist Church