Consecration Sunday
Congregations that approach financial stewardship from a biblical perspective do not view the money Christians give to their church merely as a way to pay its bills. Rather, such congregations see financial contributions as a way to help people grow spiritually in their relationship with God by supporting their church’s mission and ministry with a percentage of their incomes.
The Cathedral’s Stewardship Committee has once again selected the Consecration Sunday Stewardship Program to teach the biblical and spiritual principles of generous giving in our stewardship education emphasis this year.
Consecration Sunday is based on the biblical philosophy of the need of the giver to give their own spiritual development, rather than on the need of the church to receive. Instead of treating people like members of a social club who should pay dues, we treat people like followers of Jesus Christ who want to give as an act of discipleship. Consecration Sunday encourages people towards proportionate and systematic giving in prayerful response to the question, “What part of my income is God calling me to give?”
During morning worship on Consecration Sunday – which will be one service at 10:00 a.m. on November 6th All Saints Day – we are asking our members to make their financial commitments to our church’s missionary, benevolent, and educational ministries in this community and around the world.
Every attendee and member who completes an Estimate of Giving Card does so voluntarily by attending morning worship on Consecration Sunday. We also urge people to attend who feel unsure about completing a card. The procedure is done in such a way that no one feels conspicuous if they choose not to fill out a card.
During morning worship there will be a brief period of instruction and inspiration, immediately followed by members making their commitments as a confidential act of worship.
We will encourage participation in Consecration Sunday events through the Stewardship Team and our Vestry. We will make every effort to inform, inspire, and commit everyone possible to attend Consecration Sunday worship, followed by the joyful Thanks-a-Brunch celebration to which the entire membership is invited.
Thank you all in advance for your enthusiastic participation in Consecration Sunday events.
- The Stewardship Committee