Supporting our causes - The way we see it…

          Walk for Hunger, Walk for MS, Relay for Life; not long ago, youth Rockathon for tsunami relief…

          Sometimes it seems to be raining opportunities to give support to good causes, and the individual members of our church family who take part in them. It's become commonplace to hear requests for sponsorship through pledges and contributions during our Sunday announcement times.

          It isn't that we've been hearing complaints about this… but we know it can be bewildering to hear so many requests, and, if your wallet's like mine, it may not be possible to give to each choice that comes down the pike (or walk route!). When we'd like to, but feel a bit drained, it can be frustrating.

          Well, this is the way our Session has viewed these opportunities over the years: We like to support our members when they are putting faith into action in these ways. It is normally our practice, when someone has asked to do so, to give the go-ahead to let the church family know about this opportunity and invite individual support (Session does expect to be asked for this permission). What we don't expect is that all church members will support every walk or other fundraiser.

          There are other offerings, usually linked with denominational mission, which we do encourage all members who are able to give to (examples include the 4 special offerings-Peacemaking, Christmas Joy, One Great Hour of Sharing, Pentecost Offering). When it comes to individual members' taking part in other causes, we look at contributing as a matter for individual choice. No one should feel the church is making it incumbent upon him or her to give to every one. Consider your prayers as a very viable form of support!

          But we do rejoice that members show their caring through these activities, and usually like to make it known to you. It is true that by the world's standards, most of us are in the position Jesus speaks of in the Luke 12:48:

          From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded.

          And God loves cheerful givers!

Peace,

Rod