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Money and the Church
A Biblical and Practical way
to support God's Work
As much as we would like to avoid the subject, we have to occasionally talk about Money and the Church. First, let me say the church (at least Our Savior) does NOT want all your money - contrary to the oft quoted reason why people don't go to church. In fact, we don't even want most of your money.
2 Corinthians 9:7 says, "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
The basic premise is that your gift is an "offering" and not a tax. Every individual and family are at different places in their life creating unique opportunities to support God's work - both in the local congregation as well as in the world. The first thing everyone needs to do before they give a gift is pray about how much and to who and how often.
The temptation is to think that you don't need to give. And while people think it is the church that suffers when people do not give, the truth is just the opposite. First, when you do not give, you deny yourself a chance to make a difference. Your gift to the church isn't just about you. It's about caring for the whole community. Second, when you do not give, decisions have to be made about what programs and staff will need to be cut to balance the budget. And if that program or staff person is part of a ministry you enjoy - not only will you be affected, but so will others who would have benefited.
There is no getting around the fact that the church needs money to exist. The list of things is broken up into: "Necessary" which is staff and benefits (which now make up most of the budget), facility costs and basic things like hymnals, Bibles and office supplies. "Nice" which is air conditioning, coffee and mints. And "Only If..." column like special events, stained glass windows and video projectors. The leadership at Our Savior works hard to be good stewards of what God has entrusted to this church.
Ways You Can Support Our Savior's Work
Our Savior Lutheran Church 808.488.3654
98-1098 Moanalua Road Aiea, HI 96701