A friend received an inheritance and gave ten percent to the church, knowing that the full amount could have been used to pay bills or seed a college fund. A small business owner gave up a bonus rather than lay off a valued employee. A pastor reduced his pay rather than risk inadequate funding for Sunday school supplies. A construction company discounted a church project rather than see the project languish on the blueprint.
These acts of generosity have been committed by Zion members in typical Lutheran fashion—quietly and without fanfare—but they demonstrate a profound belief in this fall’s stewardship theme: “In God We Trust.”
Contributions to Zion have kept pace with last year, which is remarkable considering our current economic recession. However, despite tight fiscal responsibility and prudent spending, we still have had to borrow $20,000 to meet our ministry expenses.
Zion has been entrusted with a vibrant ministry that impacts our members, our community, and our world. We trust that God will motivate us to meet the financial challenges necessary to continue and expand this ministry.
This Sunday, November 22, is Stewardship Sunday. Please prayerfully consider your commitment to Zion in the coming year and consider a generous response that is appropriate to the blessings God has bestowed upon you. If you received a commitment card in the mail, please offer it to the church during worship this Sunday. You can also pick up a pledge card on Sunday morning or
Please prayerfully consider your financial commitment to Zion’s ministry as we prepare for the coming year. A letter from the Stewardship Committee along with a pledge card is being mailed to confirmed members and should arrive in your mailbox later this week.Please complete the commitment card and offer it to the church on Sunday or send your pledge by e-mail if you are unable to be here.
”Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house; and thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you an overflowing blessing.” Malachi 2:10
