Episcopal Church Foundation Vestry Papers - for leading congregations

It’s that time of year when we are making decisions about how much we give to our church. Will I pledge annually or just put it in the collection plate when I attend church? Do I give what is left over or do I “give until I feel it?”

If we truly are following our Lord’s teachings, then some of us might have a guilty conscience. We may give regularly to our church but often it doesn’t have the same priority as mortgages, utilities, college, car or recreational loans. We think those have bills come first, then food, clothing, entertainment follow – there it is, there is what I can give to the church - the crumbs, the leftovers.

These words may seem strong, even a bit offensive but the intent is not to offend but to suggest a deeper look, at our priorities. It may be time for soul searching “what would my life be like without my church?” In a world that is filled with turmoil, division, greed and many other adjectives, our church community is the place we can rest. To be with like-minded people who care about one another and have a commonality ~ love, respect, God, Jesus, gospel lessons, music, inspiring homilies, outreach.

Matthew 16:23 “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God – what is good and acceptable and perfect”. Henri Nouwen writes “You won’t become poorer, you will become richer by giving.”

So, are we okay with giving what is left over or do we make ourselves a bit uncomfortable by giving until we feel it?