"Live Generously" Stewardship Program kicks off Sunday
Thursday was a busy day for the the Stewardship Team. We met at 11:30 am for the fourth of six Zoom meetings with Jennie Wolf, our consultant from GSB Fundraising, the firm that is providing us direction and content for our Stewardship program this year.
After the Zoom meeting, Aleta, Linda and Emma K. stayed to process the first mailing of our program which went out with Thursday's mail, so you may have received that in today's mail. If you didn't and want a preview, you can view a copy HERE. A copy of members' giving statement to date was included with this letter.
You will see that our theme this year is "Live Generously." We stole this from Thrivent, as it is their trademark for their Action Grants (more about that below). Our graphic is a bit different, a red heart with the words "Live Generously" written inside the heart.
The program will include a second letter the first Sunday in November, which will include an "Intent Card." This has been called a "Commitment Card" in the past, but this year we will refer to it as "Intent Card," as it indicates what we "intend" to give the ministry of St. John's in 2021.
Also in the program are six weekly bulletin inserts, beginning this weekend, each focusing on a particular aspect of stewardship. We are also hoping to have a brief temple talk or "Outcome story" for each of the six Sundays of the program. Outcome Stories offer more than information. They are inspirational, and speak of the impact that a congregation's ministry has on people, or how their congregation has "made a difference" for them.
Another way to put this to ask and answer the question, "Where and how have you experienced God active in your life recently?" Would you be willing to tell an Outcome Story on a coming Sunday morning? Listen to Mike Ward, another of the GSB consultants speak about "Outcome Stories. Click here to hear Mike talk about Outcome Stories.
This program also challenges us as leaders to be the first declare our intent. I increased the percentage of my giving in 2020 over 2019 by half a percent. I'd be willing to do it again.
To help cover the cost of our Stewardship Program, we are doing two things. The $300 cost for GSB Fundraising is being covered by a $100 gift from me with a challenge for Council to match that times 2. Not sure where we are with that, but you can still do your part -- mark your gift "Generosity Program." I applied for and received a Thrivent Action Grant, which provides $250 for a fundraising or service activity. The $250, applied to a Visa Card, has been used to purchase postage for our program mailings.
Zoom Audio Only will continue
I indicated in my October 2 update that I would discontinue the audio only Zoom call. I have decided to resume that service with those who indicate an interest, and make it by phone only. So far, one has joined on a regular basis, and another has expressed interest.
Add CCLI License
Our musicians for this weekend (Evelyn and Cindy) wanted to do a song that was covered by CCLI license. Since we only have OneLicense, they had to change their plans. I would like for us to also purchase a CCLI license so that Evelyn and Cindy have greater latitude in the hymns they select. I will also be able to use it for displaying words to the songs I play for catechism with PowerPoint. The annual license fee is $137. I have not purchased the OneLicense streaming license that we had talked about, and don't intend to.
Bishop's Fall Meetings
I attended the first of the Bishop's Fall Meetings on Zoom that I have been advertising here for the past several weeks. It was an informative and inspirational hour with Bishop Daniel and Synod Staff. There are two more opportunities to participate -- Thursday, October 29 at 7:30 pm, and Thursday November 5 at 9:00 pm. I will send out the Zoom invite info the day before so you can participate if you so desire.
Mission Endowment Fund Application
The Mission Endowment Fund committee will be reviewing requests for disbursement of interest earned on the fund in 2020. If you have a request, please fill out the form found on the table in the Narthex or church office and return it to the church office or any committee member. Decisions will be made the first of November for approval at the church council meeting and the Congregational meeting in November. You can also view and download the request form here.
Spaghetti Dinner
St. John's Preschool is offering a Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser on November 15 from 11 am until 1 pm. You can view a flyer with more information HERE.
Council Meeting
Don't forget that Council meets next Tuesday at 7:00 pm. I'll send out the Zoom invite info the day of. Watch for it if you plan to attend that way. Otherwise, masks for in-person meeting in Fellowship Hall.
Links for You
- ELCA Advocacy Connections for October
- New Beginnings newsletter from Trinity Seminary
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