STEWARDSHIP In February, Pastor Carlson and I attended a conference at which Professor Mark Allan Powell from Trinity Lutheran Seminary spoke of stewardship. I was newly chosen to serve on Gloria Dei's Council, with stewardship as my primary concern. The talk by Professor Powell was a good one for a novice such as I. I already knew the financial aspects of budgeting and giving. We know it is better to give than receive, that giving makes us feel good, just as children feel good when they present us with gifts of their artwork. We give to support our church which is a duty, but even more than that it is our joy. Even though the duty is understandable enough, is with sacrifice that we realize delight. We turn away from ourselves and make God the center of our devotion. Aside from the financial aspect of giving, I was reminded of other examples of stewardship. There are many in our church who give of their time and talents, but a few "master givers" come to mind. There's Carol Kelley who takes charge of our Saturday Hillside's free breakfasts, as well as other volunteer tasks.How about Bob Hewitt, architect, who played such a huge role in the renovation of our church? Then there are the Dalagers, Sherry and Steve, who work so willingly and well with our youth. To name one more, Sue Anderson who has a heart for social justice. Of course there are many others in our congregation who can tell us about stewardship. Is there a place for your talents in our stewardship ministry at Gloria Dei?
Nancy Hanshew
Merciful Father, We offer with joy and thanksgiving what you have first given us, ourselves, our time and our possessions, signs of your gracious love. Receive them for the sake of him who offered himself for us, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. A stewardship letter and Giving Commitment card were mailed to all members recently – extra cards are in the church foyer. In response to God’s abundant grace, please prayerfully consider your regular offering for 2010 as you complete this card. Be sure to include your name in the upper left hand corner. Place it in the offering or mail it to the church office. It is not too late to complete a Giving Commitment card for your 2010 offerings. Thank you!
Gloria Dei takes worship seriously. Gloria Dei also takes its presence in the Hillside seriously. Whether it’s supporting Lutheran Social Services, holding its monthly free breakfast, welcoming and affirming GLBT people, sustaining an Oasis for youth with Trinity Lutheran, providing education for all ages, or worshiping Sunday mornings, as Carlson says, “Gloria Dei is in the Hillside for good.”
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 219 N. 6th Ave. E. Duluth, MN 55805 218.722.3381