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Plenty Good Room at God’s Table (Koinonia)
Last week Melissa shared with us the blog post “Church Anew” by the Rev. Miguel Escobar in which he spoke about language and models that the Church might use when speaking about fundraising, suggesting, Koinonia (economic fellowship), patronage, and tithing. I think the model that best reflects our community here at Christ Church is Koinonia. The primary meaning of Koinonia is fellowship, sharing in common, and communion.
As Rev. Escobar noted it “conveys bondedness, solidarity, and a shared economic life.” As Melissa stated in a recent sermon “…. Koinonia means mutual sharing and giving for the good of the community for the good of the world for the good of the creation of which we are part.”
I can’t help but notice the common threads which run through the testimonials of those in our church who pledge. Consistent themes of community, mutual support, outreach to the world at large and the desire to ensure that Christ Church is around for generations to come.
Here are this week’s testimonials.
Why I Pledge:
The main reason is I want to support our church and ensure Christ Church will be strong and continue for the next generation. Christ Church has wonderful programs and outreach ministries.
The other main reason is like any business, non-profit, or institution, our leaders and financial teams have to have a budget so that we know we can pay our bills, salaries, and maintain and improve our buildings and grounds. Pledging builds a foundation and we can track our goals.
Thank you.
-Robert (Robb) Pflock
When I think of pledging, I think about Christ Church’s budget as I think of my own household budget, it takes thought and planning. Our church has financial commitments that need to be planned for, such as heat, electricity, general upkeep of the building along with numerous other expenses. I also think of the many ways Christ Church helps in our community and well beyond. It is a good feeling to think the pledge I make is helping with this ministry in a small way.
I also think of all Christ Church does for me personally, and that is another important answer to the question, “Why I Pledge”.
-Anonymous
As a young person my family attended Church and Church School. We six children were given a “hanky” with our offering each week. We were taught to give to help pay for Church expenses. I have never stopped! This is a small way of giving to thank for my many blessings each and every week.
-Bobbie Perry
I am eternally grateful and blessed for all the love, hope and compassion from multi generations at Christ Church.
-Holly Williams
Why do we pledge to Christ Church rather than just put money in the basket each week? This is our spiritual home, and we want our home to continue to thrive, for us and for future generations. We know that it takes time, talent and treasure to insure this. Just as with any family budget, we understand that it is important for program planning purposes to know how much income and people power are available to carry out the church’s mission and responsibilities.
-Ann and Dave Fowler
So, here is our invitation to you. Prayerfully consider your level of giving with an open heart. No gift is too small, and no gift is too large. Your generosity enables our church to live out God's abundant love, both here in our local community and far beyond. Thank you for being an integral part of our story.
Jean Strella and the Resource Committee
Rev Miguel Escobar—click here to read his blog post for “Church Anew.”
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