Dear Church,

If you ever wondered if the events you organized had an impact on anyone, they did have an impact on me. If you ever wondered if your smile brightened anyone's Sunday, it brightened mine. If you ever wondered if people took notice of your part in the church and if it made a difference, you have made a difference in my life.

When I began attending our church, I was strictly a part of the youth group. I didn't come on Sunday mornings, and I didn't know many of the individuals who did. However, little by little, you presented evidence of Christ's love in that church. You spoke with me, got to know me, and invited me to participate in as many church ministries as I liked, and soon, I became a member of the church.

You have seen me through so many important moments in my life. When I received my driver's license, the first place I drove by myself was to church. When I posted pictures online of my prom, you were the ones liking and commenting about how beautiful I was. You encouraged me and celebrated my graduation with me from high school, and many of you were a part of helping me choose which college to attend. Because of all of the things you have already helped me through, I hope that one day you will be there for the future important moments of my life. I hope that you will be there for my college graduation, my wedding and for my children's birthdays.

Ultimately, I am writing this to say two things. First, I would not be the woman I am today if it were not for your love, support and influence. So many of you have told me how proud you are of all I have accomplished and all I have contributed to the church, but it is important to me that you understand none of it would have been possible without you. With every word of encouragement, every piece of advice given and with every hug, you molded me into who I am today. With everything I am, I would like to say thank you for that.

Second, I want to say don't ever stop investing in the new people, in the youth, in the children, and in the adults of our church. Pastors may come or go, the music may evolve, and attendance may increase or decrease, but the impact you have on those with whom you come in contact is something you can control. I want to ensure for years to come that individuals can be encouraged and changed by this church, just as I was. So please continue to be the church that has been my home away from home for years.

Thank you all so much.

Sincerely,
Victoria Becker.