Congregations approaching financial stewardship from a biblical perspective do not view money which Christians give to the church merely as a way to pay bills. Rather, they understand Christians’ financial contributions can be a significant means of growth in relationship with God – a tangible expression of one’s trust, gratitude, and commitment to the work of Christ’s church.
Our Joint Board has selected The New Consecration Sunday Stewardship Program in order to share the biblical and spiritual principles of generous giving. This program focuses on the need of the giver to give for his or her own spiritual development, rather than on the need of the church to receive.
Instead of treating persons like members of a social club who should pay dues, we will treat persons like followers of Jesus Christ, who want to give unselfishly as an act of discipleship. We encourage followers of Jesus to progress towards intentional, proportional, systematic giving in response to the question: “What percentage of my income is God calling me to give?”
On Consecration Sunday we will ask worshippers to make their financial commitment to support East Hills Moravian Church’s ministries of worship, education, outreach, and mission through its general budget. All attending will have the opportunity to voluntarily fill out an Estimate of Giving Card. During worship our guest leader will conduct a brief period of instruction and inspiration, climaxed by worshippers making their commitments as a confidential act of worship. The procedure is designed not to cause personal embarrassment should one choose not to fill out a card. We urge those who feel strongly opposed to completing a card to attend worship and listen to the message.
Since we will conduct no follow up visits to ask persons to complete their cards, we will make every effort to inform, inspire, and secure members’ commitment to attend Consecration Sunday worship at 9:30 a.m. on November 5th.
Thanks in advance for your enthusiastic participation in Consecration Sunday events.
– Pastor Derek French