October 20, 2009

Dear Friends and Companions in Ministry,

Our Stewardship Committee has been working with the theme: “Stewardship is everything we do after we say we believe.” Stewardship is a year-round, everyday concern for us. Stewardship refers to the many ways we care for and make decisions about ourselves, our possessions, our environment, and our communities so that we can be active companions with God in bringing about God’s will and sharing God’s love. Every autumn, we consider what we are called to promise to God and God’s church for the coming year. How will you make a difference in 2010 so that the love of God can continue to be known through St. Paul’s on-the-Hill?

All that you give to the church, your time, talent, and financial support, enables the ministry that we share to thrive. You are a companion with God in feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, nurturing our children in the faith, giving youth a place to belong, welcoming all, helping people connect with God through worship…and so much more.

Did you know that absolutely every expense that we have, which includes staff salaries, is paid by your financial offerings? People often wonder what they ought to pledge. In order for us to maintain our current ministries, 100 families would need to pledge $1,600 or more (we have about 120 families total). A few of you are giving more than $1,600 a year, and many more are working toward the tithe, which means that each year you are increasing the percentage that you give in a faithful effort to reach the goal to giving 10% of your income to the mission of the church.

Did you know that I tithe? I do so because I know that God has given me absolutely everything that I have – my ability to work and to earn money is a gift from God. I owe God everything, and giving 10% to the church seems a small thing to ask in return. I could tithe to any church organization, but I give to St. Paul’s on-the-Hill because I believe in what we are doing here. I hope that we can do even more for our members and the community in 2010. Supporting the church financially and, if possible, increasing your pledge, could enable us to do more for children or seniors or those in need.

In addition to the financial pledge card, you also have a time and talent card; the pledge of your time and talent is also very important and a wonderful offering that you make.  If you have children, you have cards for them – this is a good opportunity to start teaching your children that they are companions with God in ministry too!

During the services on Saturday, October 31, and Sunday, November 1, you will have the opportunity to place your pledge cards on the altar as a concrete expression of your commitment to God and the ministry God has given us to do. If you prefer to place your pledge cards in the offering plates or mail them to us, please do so. If you have any questions about pledging or the ministry we share, please contact me.

Faithfully yours,

The Rev. Dr. Hilary B. Smith

2010 Adult Pledge Card

2010 Youth / Child Predge Card

2010  Time & Talent Pledge Card