Why give?
Giving to the mission and ministry of the church is an important part of our life together. Psalm 24.1 tells us that the earth is the Lord’s and everything in it. God has been profoundly generous with us, most profoundly in sharing our life in the person of Jesus of Nazareth. In response to his generosity, we recognise that anything we have or own is part of his creation and to be used for his glory.
We are called to live generous lives and within that, God calls us to contribute to the life of his church. The people of Israel we instructed to give one tenth of all they produced as a tithe and this is still accepted as a good principle by which to order our personal finances. This may all be given to your local church or divided between the parish and other church agencies seeking to make an impact for God in his world, that is down to the individual’s conscience.
Some useful sermons.
James‘ first sermon as vicar here was about the generous lives we are called to live. The text was Acts 2.42-47: 9.15 version; 11.00 version.
In June 2012, we had our most recent preaching series on the subject of money, giving and stewardship:
- Part One: Matthew 25.14-40 – It all belongs to God: 9.15 version; “10.30 for 11.00″ version
- Part Two: Haggai 1 – Give it back to God: 9.15 version; “10.30 for 11.00″ version
- Part Three: 2 Corinthians 9.7-15 – Obedience to God: 9.15 version; “10.30 for 11.00″ version.
So, how to go about it at St Francis’?
If you are able to give by Standing Order, it helps us in terms of budgeting. Please speak to Ed Newman – or leave a note in the ‘N’ pigeon-hole for him – if you would like to give this way.
If you would prefer to give on Sundays in the service, the collection plate can be found at the back of church. You can also commit to giving regularly this way through the envelope scheme. Again, please see Ed if you would like more information about this option.
If you don’t know who Ed is, please see a member of the clergy team.
We also have an on-going food offering.