Traditionally in many churches, fall is stewardship season. Some have campaigns that culminate with pledging, when church members and friends commit to what they plan to give to the church in the coming year. That’s not the current practice at Emmanuel. But that doesn’t mean that stewardship is not important. The ministry and mission of this congregation wouldn’t be possible without your support, not only financial, but also the gifts of your time and talent.

Our next sermon series, covering the four Sundays in October, will touch on the theme of stewardship, but somewhat indirectly. There won’t be an appeal for money. Nor will there be a pledge of time and talent. Instead, I’ve chosen passages that invite our reflection on the larger themes that inform our giving, not only to the church, but to the world – themes like worry versus trust in God, and a philosophy of abundance rather scarcity. Essentially, these are texts that speak to our relationship with our stuff. Oh, and of course, our relationship with God. The notions in these passages are both counterintuitive and countercultural, which is why they present such a challenge. But, the surprising thing is, if we buy into what they say, generosity doesn’t just benefit the receiver. The more important point, often, is that giving is good for the giver.

On October 6, the first Sunday in this series, we will celebrate World Communion Sunday, a day when Christians across the globe gather around the table, recognizing and affirming our oneness in Christ. This observance has Presbyterian roots. It was started in 1933 by Hugh Thomson Kerr, then pastor of Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh. It has since spread and been adopted by other denominations.

Pastor Janet

September 17, 2024