John Wesley says outright that we have to talk about it as people of faith because it’s not the money itself that is evil, as we often think it is, but the love of money and how we tend to use it. He says that “[money] is an excellent gift of God, answering the noblest ends. In the hands of [God’s] children it is food for the hungry, drink for the thirsty, [clothing] for the naked. It gives to the traveler and the stranger where to lay [their] head… we may be a defense for the oppressed, a means of health to the sick, of ease to them that are in pain. It may be as eyes to the blind, as feet for the lame; yea, a lifter up from the gates of death.”[1] In Wesley’s preaching, he talks about how Christians are to have three rules regarding money:

Gain all you can. Save all you can. Give all you can.

The past few weeks in worship, we have been exploring what these rules actually mean. We talked about what faithful earning might look like. We were reminded that we are called to use our gifts and graces to the fullest extent, gaining all that we can. But we must be sure that we are not harming ourselves or others in the process because that would be a direct violation of God’s command to love others as we love ourselves.

Then we explored what savings looks like. Realistically we are called to trust God and not worry about tomorrow. But being unprepared for a “disaster,” like losing a job, is not an option either. So, we are called to save for necessities that are needed day to day, maybe a little more. We are called to make solid and realistic goals, then reach them.

This coming Sunday, we will round out our sermon series by exploring why we are called to give and where we are called to give. But for now, I want you to consider St. Paul’s as one of those places. And this is why:

Ministry at and through St. Paul’s does not happen without YOUR prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. God has chosen you to be a part of this important work.

I’m going to share this graphic with you that depicts where your gifts to St. Paul’s go. This is not a line-item budget, although you are welcome to come and look at that if you want, but a story of the work that happens here.

Out of the $167,184.88 leadership needs to make ministry happen at St. Paul’s in 2023, 49% of that goes towards Sunday Worship and Special Services, 12% of that goes towards bible study, upper rooms, and other teaching materials for Spiritual Growth, 21% of that goes towards hospitality and community engagement as we Love Others, and 18%, plus special donations, goes towards helping those in need through Mission. That includes everything from staff salaries to the heat and lights to pens and pencils to milk and coffee to music and instrument upkeep.

This is what it means to “Love God, Love Others, and Serve our Neighbors.” This is what it means to serve, love, and grow in faith. This is what it means to be a part of what God is doing here.

And it cannot be done without you.

So I encourage you, to consider making St. Paul’s a place you share a portion of what God has given you. Consider making it a part of your monthly budget. Decide how much you want to give, and then commit to it by making it a priority in your household. I recognize that money is tight for many of you and you might need to change the amount you are giving throughout the year. Some of you may not be able to give at all. That’s okay. Every gift is appreciated and there are plenty of other ways to donate your time and energy to St. Paul’s.

I would love to know what you’re thinking so that the leadership teams can plan appropriately. Take a moment to fill out this form, or fill out a paper version at church, and drop it in the offering plate. These are 100% confidential and your name will not be shared with anyone.

You can fill out the form here: https://forms.gle/VAgngL2ojaTKeB4m8

Thank you for your generosity! 

Blessings friends,
Pastor Nicole

[1] Wesley, John. Sermon 50, “The Use of Money,” The Works of John Wesley. Edited by Albert C. Outler. (Nashville: Abingdon, 1985), 263-280. Volume 2. 2, 268.