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What’s Your Story? Our congregation is approaching one of the most important times of the year—our financial stewardship celebration. The theme of this year’s celebration is Stories to Tell-Gifts to Share. What is your story of giving? Who are the people in your life who modeled giving financially to the church and charities? Over the years of ministry I’ve personally learned from faithful and joyful givers from all walks of life. People like Polly, who was physically challenged and impoverished, yet gave an offering every week. And Loren, who would openly talk about how much God had given him and how great it was to be able to give to support the mission of the church. There have been many others along with the joyful and committed givers at MGLC. Most importantly my parents gave to the church regularly and generously. Their story of giving continues to shape my conversations and decisions with my wife, Susan. “So, what is God calling us to give to the mission of the church this next year?” This question that will be part of our conversation over the next few weeks. I encourage and challenge you to pray to God about what your 2008 pledge or financial commitment will be for this next year. Each week when you worship, what will your offering be? Is there the possibility you will be able to increase your giving this year in response to God’s love and grace? Would you be willing to take on the challenge of tithing? On Sundays, December 2 and 9 and Wednesdays, December 5 and 12, we will celebrate all that we have to be thankful for as disciples of Jesus. You will receive a packet on your way in to worship containing your pledge card. We will then take a few minutes during worship to fill out pledge cards and walk them forward during the regular offering. Please be prepared to fill in your pledge card on that Sunday. The purpose of pledging is to help us commit to our church’s mission in response to our faith in Christ. Pledging also enables our council to effective shape an operating budget for next year. May our Lord Jesus richly bless your life of discipleship and giving!
Pastor Durk K. Peterson |
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©2007 Maple Grove Lutheran Church, 9251 Elm Creek Blvd, Maple Grove, MN 55369, 763-420-7930 |
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