|
In January, 2010, the congregation of First United Methodist Church, Richardson, embarks on a courageous journey of making God's love real. . . in practice. |
 |
Not just on Sundays, not just special times, but every day practices. What is a practice? Something we do repeatedly, consistently in order to improve in those areas we need to improve. |
Generosity describes the Christian's unselfish willingness to give in order to make a positive difference for the purposes of Chirst.
Extravagant Generosity describes practices of sharing and giving that exceed all expectations and extend to unexpected measures.
Fruitful congregations thrive because of extraordinary sharing, willing sacrifice, and joyous giving out of love for God and neighbor.
Do you have an idea or suggestion about one of the Five Practices? Your ideas are valued.
CLICK HERE TO OFFER YOUR THOUGHTS.
Ideas, Thoughts, and Suggestions
|
CONGREGATIONAL GIVING IDEAS Outreach to those who are not members to show what extravagant generosity looks like Invite others to join volunteer efforts; opportunities and talents may need to be identified for some people; people may just need to know what to do or what is needed Give to other countries We could do more by sending medical and dental missionaries to remote places in the world Great need locally Pick a project that is personal - like supporting a family through poverty/need/disability; city knows who needs help Fill a little box for the Lord during Lent Make and deliver sandwiches (youth or adults) The young stepping up to help those who are no longer able to do those "heavy lifting" tasks This is a very generous church; gives a lot to missions Encourage alternative methods of giving Proportion is more important than amount Are we giving to the most needy? (local vs. national) Is there a time of year where needs are greater? Address needs or causes with the idea of a permanent solution rather than a "band aid" We should try to change what we can, accept what we cannot change, and pray for wisdom to know the difference so we do not waste time on the impossible |
INDIVIDUAL GIVING
Money and Time Volunteer to set up and serve at funerals and weddings Step up to tithing Tithing of time Calls to remind people who haven't turned in pledge cards in the past were not appreciated Sell items on eBay, give profits to church or needy Encourage members to include church in their will; church is family INDIVIDUAL ATTITUDES AND HABITS Give to church first, not what is left over Extend yourself beyond normal circle Because we are such a big church, sometimes we lost sight of what giving means; it's not how much we give, but does it make a difference in our priorities; what do we give up? what do we teach our children? Joy comes from reaching 10% and giving beyond Giving leads to happy hearts Give generously, without expecting anything in return; show appreciation for God-given blessings by giving back to help those less fortunate Inspriation to live a Christ-like life by giving not only money, but also time, service, and prayer Stretch outside comfort zone; prioritize giving over frivolous spending Make giving (time) a priority, schedule it Take a cue from children - they really enjoy giving Model giving for our children, grandchildren Extra dollar; like to see pastors doing this too Start practice of giving young |
COMMUNICATION
Highlight the benefits of donations (within church and to community through newspaper, TV); show evidence of what is done with money beyond supporting the facility Video of charities and where money is going Would like periodic (twice yearly?) financial statement showing money in and how it's being used; vivibility of giving Suggest something when we come in the building that shows what we do Inspire people to do more because they know where their money goes We have to have feedback Stewardship emphasis throughout the year; talk about results of giving and specific things we could do with a little bit more No one has ever given more that they have received; God is the extravagant giver, we are simply responding to his generosity; emphasize all we have is a gift from God Focus some Sunday school lesssons on mission areas of the church ON-GOING/ ANNUAL PROJECTS Tote bags Body & Soul Network Habitat for Humanity Cooking for AIDS victims and homeless Youth working outside the church Office help Handyman - outside and inside the church One Great Day of Sharing |
Information updated 2/10/10