At the dawn of a new century, Third Church stands uniquely called to address the needs of our own congregation as well as the Rochester community and broader culture. We are grateful that our congregation is growing and that our program life is expanding and evolving, welcoming children, youth and adults to a wide variety of worship, serving and learning opportunities.

The facilities need attention after years without change, some mere cosmetic, some structural. The last major renovations were in the 1950's, the additions of the education building and the chapel. The configuration of the sanctuary does not fully enhance the current worship experience for the congregation, clergy, and choir. On most Sundays, the Meigs Street entry, the de facto main entrance, is congested by individuals entering the sanctuary from the street, the Celebration Center, and Johnston Hall. Movement into and through the building is difficult, especially for the handicapped. Space in the Celebration Center-kitchen area is inefficiently arranged, and the kitchen equipment is antique. The heating, sound, and lighting systems throughout the church are out-of-date. More about the current state of the Facilities appears in Faith for the Future.

Outreach is at the heart of who we are as a congregation and as a people witnessing to the larger community. Given the historical and ongoing commitment of Third Church to mission and community outreach, locally and abroad, the capital campaign should - indeed must - contain a significant commitment to outreach/community mission. Now, our outreach occurs largely on site. More about the needs and opportunities for Outreach appears in this Outreach Brochure.

Third Church's Endowment Fund is currently over $6,500,000. Each year, we withdraw "imputed income," to augment our operating income. In 2007, the withdrawal was $380,204 or 26% of the annual budget. For many years, the withdrawal rate was 8%, increasing in the early 2000's to close budget shortages. In 2005, concern that we were exceeding currently accepted endowment withdrawals for churches and educational institutions of 5%, the Trustees began a ¼% rate reduction with a target of 7% in 2008. Many think this is still too high. More about the current state of the Endowment appears in Faith for the Future.

The time is now, and the needs are real and clear. More than bricks and mortar, the "Faith for the Future" campaign will nurture our church family and strengthen our ability to serve and grow.