Stewardship Tip: Looking Toward What’s Next
What’s on the horizon for congregations and parishes as we transition from the crisis of the moment to the long-term implications of the coronavirus pandemic? The pandemic has fast-forwarded us into our future at warp speed. Normal has changed forever. With the advent of the digital church, not all of our congregation is physically present. We are learning that telling the dispersed congregation stories of how offerings are used will generate instant gifts with a “donate now” button used during the time of the offering.
In
May’s monthly tip
, Stewardship Team leader the Rev. Larry Smoose offers some thoughts and questions we all need to ponder.
Voting Changes for June 2 Primary
Philadelphia will have 77%
fewer
polling places for the primary due to a lack of poll volunteers and willing sites for in-person voting,
according to
The Philadelphia Inquirer
.
The state legislature passed an emergency law in March allowing counties to cut the number of polling places by up to 60% without state or court approval. Delaware County will have 40% fewer locations, and Montgomery County 60% fewer. Chester County has not yet determined the number of locations. Bucks plans to have all of its polls open.
Support Increase in the State Food Purchase Program Allocation
From LAMPa: Now, more than ever, the Pennsylvania State Food Purchase Program (SFPP), which supplies much of the food in our food banks and community and congregational food pantries, needs an increase in funding. During COVID-19 shutdowns, the State Food Purchase Program allowed Pennsylvania food banks to continue to partner with Pennsylvania small business distributors to keep a steady supply of dry and shelf-stable foods in the charitable supply chain.
Currently, at $18.188 million, we know it is not sufficient funding to support the increased demand we have experienced over the last 10 weeks and we know it won't be enough to cover our needs for the near future.
Becoming the Body of Christ Where All Bodies are Valued
Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton will join Bishop Kevin Strickland of the Southeastern Synod for a webinar “Becoming the body of Christ where all bodies are valued: A conversation around the ELCA’s resolution to condemn White Supremacy” on Thursday, May 21, at 7 pm.
Lutheran World Relief Seeking 75,000 More Masks
When Lutheran World Relief launched the 75,000 Face Mask Challenge less than a month ago, they knew the compassionate response would be overwhelming – and that good people like you would meet the challenge. They just had no idea you’d pull it off so quickly. Thank you!
As COVID-19 continues to make its way around the world, the poorest communities stand to bear the heaviest burdens.
Cloth masks are a first barrier of defense, and the need is only increasing.
To reach even more people in dire need, Lutheran World Relief is collecting 75,000
more
masks! How many will you make to help stop the spread?
