Prepare for the Bite

Quick Links:
Intro Video
Vision Guide
Discernment Guide
Vision Gatherings
Commitment Card
Upcoming Events
Q&A

Prepare for the Bite

Prepare for the Bite is our shared commitment to the future of Atonement Lutheran Church, beginning with the faithful care of the spaces where ministry happens every day. Through this campaign, we are addressing essential needs across our campus, including critical updates to our HVAC system and parking areas, so that these spaces can continue to support worship, community, and service for years to come. Rooted in stewardship and shared purpose, this effort invites every member to take part in shaping a welcoming and vibrant future together. 

Campaign Vision Guide

Explore the vision, priorities, and purpose of Prepare for the Bite, and how we are stepping forward together into God’s call for our future. View the Campaign Vision Guide below (or pick up a copy at the Connect & Serve counter in the lobby).
View Campaign Vision Guide

Prayer & Discerment Guide

As we Prepare for the Bite, we encourage you to begin with prayer and discernment. We have created a guide to help you slow down, listen for God’s voice, and seek the Spirit’s wisdom as you consider your commitment. You may download it using the button below, and printed copies will also be available at the Prepare for the Bite table in the lobby.

We also invite you to share a prayer request. Whatever is on your heart, we would be honored to pray for you. As a community, we are committed to lifting one another up, trusting that God is at work in our lives and guiding us forward together.
View Prayer & Discernment Guide
submit a prayer request

Commitment Card

As we step forward into this next chapter, we invite you to make your three-year commitment to Prepare for the Bite as you feel called. Commitment cards will be mailed to each household and may be returned during worship the weekend of May 17, or mailed to the church so they arrive by that time. You may also choose to submit your commitment electronically using the button below. Please complete your commitment using only one method, either online or by returning a paper card. 
Complete a Digital Commitment Card

Vision Gatherings

Sunday, April 26 | 6:00 PM | Gathering Place
Tuesday, April 28 | 11:30 AM | Gathering Place
We invite you to join us for a Vision Gathering as we share more about the heart, vision, and priorities of Prepare for the Bite. These gatherings are an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and reflect together on how God is calling us forward as a community. A meal will be provided, and we ask that you RSVP so we can prepare enough food for all.
RSVP for a vision gathering

Voices of Changed Lives

God is at work through Atonement, and we want to lift up those stories. We will share some stories in worship and others through video. If you have experienced Atonement’s ministries making a difference in your life, or have seen that impact in someone else’s life, we want to chat with you. Let us know if you would consider sharing your story. (No need to write out your full story now. Simply express your interest, and we will follow up with you.)
let us know you have a story to share

Upcoming Campaign Events

April 18/19
Prepare for the Bite Worship Launch
April 26 - 6:00 PM
Vision Gathering #1
April 28 - 11:30 AM
Vision Gathering #2
May 2/3
Gratitude Weekend    
May 16/17
Commitment and Celebration Weekend

Campaign Questions and Answers

Why are we doing this project now?
We believe God is growing our church. Our facilities are aging and in need of updates. Acting now ensures our building matches our mission and we’re ready to welcome the people God is sending.
How much do we need to raise?
Our goal is $2 million through this campaign. This amount will allow us to accomplish three vital tasks. First, we will be able to pay off any money we borrow through the ELCA Mission Investment Fund more quickly. Second, the money will allow us to dream big about welcoming Sam and Emma
(and others!) and help us move nimbly upon the recommendations of the Council and the Strategic Planning Team. Third, by raising the full $2 million, we will build our Campus Sustainment Fund to a healthy balance for future repairs. This campaign will free more resources for ministry, and set a strong foundation for the future. We believe this goal is both attainable and God-honoring.
How does this campaign affect our regular ministry budget?
Our ministry budget remains the priority, supporting worship, discipleship, and outreach. Prepare for the Bite is above and beyond regular giving.
Can I give non-cash gifts?
Yes. Options include stock, IRA distributions, EFT, bill pay, and more. These can even provide tax benefits.
When will construction start and how long will it take?
The HVAC unit in the sanctuary is of first priority and work on that will begin in the late winter/early spring of 2026. The other projects will likely take 12–18 months to complete, though timelines can shift based on outside factors like weather, materials, and labor. We’ll keep the congregation updated at every step, and we’re excited to watch the vision take shape together.
Can my gift really make a difference?
Yes. When we join together, God uses all of our gifts — large and small — to accomplish God’s work. What matters is not the amount, but the heart of faith and trust behind it.
What if I’ve never given before?
This is a great time to start! Every journey begins with a first step. Pray and ask what God is calling you to give and trust God to provide.
What if my circumstances change?
Commitments are made in faith, not under pressure. If your situation changes in a way that makes giving harder — job loss, medical bills, unexpected needs — you are always free to adjust your commitment. On the other hand, if God blesses you with an unexpected raise, bonus, or inheritance, you may feel led to increase your commitment. Either way, your giving is between you and God, and we trust God to guide you in each season.
Is this really about money?
While this campaign will provide the financial resources needed to update our campus and serve our mission, it is about far more than dollars. Our true desire is for each person to grow in faith, trust, and generosity. Money is simply the tool God uses to shape our hearts and fund God’s work. We don’t want something from you — we want something for you: a deeper walk with Jesus, the freedom of trusting him completely, and the joy of seeing lives changed through your generosity.
Prepare for the Bite is seeking some rather large gifts. What if I cannot give at the high level described above, beyond my usual generosity to Atonement?
Yes, we will need some large gifts to fully prepare for the bite and have a successful campaign. We realize our members are at various stages of life! Know that every single gift counts. Every gift, no matter what amount, is a step of growth in generosity, trust in God, and participation in our vital mission of communicating the good news of the gospel to a new generation.

Questions?

If you have questions about Prepare for the Bite or would like to learn more, please reach out to Pastor Zac. He would be happy to talk with you, answer your questions, or connect you with the right person.
Contact Pastor Zac