Pastor’s Corner – December 26, 2024
Did you know that charitable giving to churches represents 27% of all charitable giving in the United States, according to research by Nucleus. Not surprisingly, this represents another downward trend connected to the decline in religious affiliation.
Giving in America has diversified to many different non-profit organizations. People give directly to the causes they prefer, no longer looking to the church to make those decisions for them. Nor is it surprising that more and more people prefer the convenience of online giving. Thankfully, Friedens has that option at our website, www.FriedensUCC.org.
As the year comes to a close, many people give to charitable organizations in the spirit of generosity of the Christmas season as well as to take advantage of the related tax deduction. A strong conclusion to Friedens’ financial year allows more funds to be directed to the ministries of the national and international work of our denomination called Our Church’s Wider Mission. These funds empower support of a variety of local ministries of welcome, education, advocacy, justice, and reconciliation, as well as projects of compassion with partners around the globe in times of war, displacement, and disaster. If you would like to know more about Our Church’s Wider Mission and how you can help, please reach out to the Friedens Moving Outward Council Representative, Tim Tjarks at timtjarks@gmail.com. Wise stewardship of our resources is one way we share the love of Christ.
Yours in Christ,
Marc
