The Practice of Stewardship
As with many churches, we place our practices of giving under the heading of Stewardship. The belief that we are not possessors but rather caretakers of God's gifts informs how we offer those gifts to the world. Stewardship applies to our offerings of time and talent as well as to our financial giving. Please read below for more information about giving at St. Paul's.
"From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near." Matt 23:32
"A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and found none. So he said to the gardener, 'See here! For three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree, and still I find none. Cut it down! Why should I be wasting the soil?' He replied, 'Sir, let it alone for one more year, until I dig round it and put manure on it. If it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.'" Luke 13:6-9
These parables of Jesus hold up the fig tree as an image of promise and patience during barren times. This simple sign of hope is the theme of this year's stewardship season, as we care for our parish and look expectantly to the future.
Please continue reading below as you consider making a pledge. Thank you!
Ways of Giving
in person, online & by Text
We are pleased to be able to offer convenient and secure ways to give directly online (see above) or by text message (click here for more info), and at the same time we appreciate the importance of the physical act of giving. Whether sending in a monthly pledge envelope by mail or placing your gift in the offering plate on Sunday, these acts are meaningful spiritual practices, which will not be displaced by newer digital options.
Annual Giving
Annual giving refers to the gifts that make up our operating budget. The practice of submitting a pledge for the upcoming year is vital to our planning for the building up of our ministries. However, we know that this is not ideally suited for all people. Whether in the form of a pledge or a one-time gift, what we offer back to God out of the abundance of our lives is always a matter for prayer and consideration, bringing our material lives into the fold of our spiritual selves. The generosity of our parish makes a great deal possible here at St. Paul's, and we thank you. Click here for a list of Frequently Asked Questions.
Perpetual Memorial & Endowment
The St. Paul's Episcopal Church Memorial Endowment Fund was established in 2005 with the mission to preserve the heritage we have received, to expand and grow the Body of Christ here and in the world, and for the enrichment of our spiritual lives through education. As a memorial fund, it provides an ideal means of perpetuating the memory of loved ones in a most significant manner. Look for more information in the fund's Annual Report, issued each spring, or contact Mrs. Brenda Ferguson in the church office.
