What is Stewardship?

What does it mean to be a steward?  Long ago, a steward on an estate was responsible for the welfare of that estate and its people.  A steward made sure that all necessary tasks were accomplished and everything ran smoothly.  Being a steward was an important job, but stewards were not part of the aristocracy, just ordinary people like us. 

Being a steward at Faith Lutheran is a lot like being a steward on an estate.  It means accepting responsibility for the welfare of our church and donating your money and your time to help Faith run smoothly.  When our gifts exceed Faith's annual needs, your stewardship also allows Faith to play the role of steward to the community and help the Food Center, the Salvation Army, and other not-for-profit organizations in Jacksonville that serve the needy.

If the members of Faith were not good stewards, our church would have trouble staying afloat financially.  And without our stewardship, Faith Lutheran would not be able to reach out to others in our community who need food, adequate housing, and other necessities that we take for granted. 

Over the years the people of Faith have been good stewards.  Because of our stewardship, Faith Lutheran has been able to serve its members and help those without adequate food and housing who are living in our community.  Let's all continue to be good stewards in 2011.

Spiritual Gifts Spring Campaign

“Talents in Action” is the theme for our Spring Campaign for Time and Talent.  We see our “Talent in Action” all around us at Faith, whether it is teaching Sunday School or leading us in prayer.  We celebrate our God-given talents when we sing in the choir or with the Faith Singers at first service.  We see individuals in action when they assist with the Chancel Committee or read or usher on Sunday.  Others share their wealth of knowledge by caring for the grounds and to maintain our church.  Still others share their talent of hospitality and caring.  They have the ability to make strangers feel welcome, and homebound know that they are remembered and loved.  The needs are varied, but we are blessed with members with many talents who give of their time for the mission of the church.

Our usual temple talks will be replaced by ‘skits’ presented by members of the Parish Outreach, Education, Administration, Worship, and Stewardship Committees. Look for these presentations after first service and before second service on April 15th and April 22nd. 

Stewardship packets will be available at church on April 22nd.  A “Directory of Ministry Opportunities” booklet and a “Time and Talent” worksheet will be enclosed.  As you look through the booklet, you will find a number of ways you can serve at Faith.  We invite you to sign up and “Give it a Try”.  We will return the “Time and Talent” worksheet at our May 6th service.  At a point in the services, we will place our pledges on the altar offering ourselves for service in the name of Christ, our risen Savior and Lord.   Stewardship Committee.