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If you are a Bob Dylan fan, then you already recognize the title.  It’s true.  The only constant in life is change, even if we don’t like it.  I remember when a household only had 1 or maybe 2 phones, and those phones were attached to the wall.  I remember when computers took up an entire desk.  Now I have a faster and more powerful computer in my pocket.  I remember when cameras required film, then you would take the picture, then you would have it processed, and only then could you see the picture.  Now my phone takes better pictures than that film camera ever dreamed of taking. The list of changes, in just our lifetime, could go on and on.  I’m sure you could add to this list.  I hope you get my point- the only constant in life is change.

Those changes in the world impact our church also.  We have recently partnered with a company named Tithely to provide our online giving, website, app, church management, calendar and more.  I hope you have had a chance to visit our new website at www.palestinemethodist.org.  The new website contains links to all of our past services, our calendar of events, information about our church, and much more. You can also give online on that website.  While there are fees for online giving (Credit Card 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction- American Express (AMEX): 3.5% + $0.30 per transaction- ACH / Bank Transfers: 1.0% + $0.30 per transaction), Tithely gives you the option to pay the fees or allow the fees to come out of your gift.  Tithely also gives you the option to schedule a recurring gift and allows you to support our church if you cannot physically be in worship or do not have a check or cash.  You can even text “give” to (833) 772-3246 to be directed to our online giving page. 

Tithely also provides an app for our church, which we is almost ready. If you want to take a sneak peek, you can download it at https://tithely.app.link/palestine-methodist-church.  Or you can also download “Church App- Tithely” from your app store and search for “Palestine Methodist Church.” The app allows us to send push notifications for free to remind you about upcoming events and services.

Tithely also allows us to send unlimited emails for free and text messages (250/month for free, $.02 after 250).  For that reason, we are sending this newsletter electronically via email, as well as in the mail.  But for those things to work, we need your correct information.  Be looking soon for a form that you can complete to make sure that we have your correct information so that we can stay in touch with you.  

For better or worse, the times around us have changed. Yet, one thing remains constant. Hebrews 13:8 reads “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Our hope is that these new tools, even though they require some change on our part, will help us reach more people with the good news of Jesus. The times may change, the methods may change, the message of Jesus Christ never will.

In Christ’s Love,

Kevin D. Smith