Stewardship Sunday 2009

17th May was Stewardship Sunday - a day to reflect on the way in which we contribute to the life of St Mary's, both through the giving of time and also financially.

With running costs increasing by 7% last year, Deborah invited us to consider increasing the amount we currently give to St Mary's [read Deborah's sermon].

She further encouraged those not already participating in the regular giving scheme to join by setting up a regular standing order or making a regular pledge which would enable better financial planning.

• What does the Bible say about giving?

  • The Lord loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7)

• How much should you give?

  • Consider whether the offering your make reflects the love you have for God, your gratitude for God’s love to you and your desire to see God’s work continue.

  • The Bible suggests tithing, ie,10%; Nowadays, 5% is the suggested minimum.

  • Compare how much you give a month to the Church with how much you spend over a month on, say, newspapers or Starbucks Coffees.

• How should you give?

  • Stewardship enables us to plan sensibly for necessary expenditure. Banker’s Order remains the most efficient manner of giving. If you do this already, thank you – if not, please ask our Stewardship Recorder

  • If you prefer to give cash, please do so using one of the yellow Gift Aid envelopes if you are a UK taxpayer.

• What difference does Gift Aid make?

  • If you are a UK taxpayer and you Gift Aid your giving, for each £10 you give, the Chancellor makes it up to £12.80 - at no extra cost to you. All we ask is that you make a simple declaration that your donation is eligible.

For personal reflection

• Find out more about Stewardship

• Contact the Stewardship Recorder

• Read Deborah's Sermon

Please note: all enquiries and records are strictly confidential, known only to the Stewardship Recorder.