March 2022: Stewardship

Bonnie WohllebenPastor's Blog

Rev. Donny Haywood

In the spring of 2020, our lives changed dramatically, as the Coronavirus hit our nation and Texas. It affected how and where we could work, eat, gather, serve, and worship. Churches were closed to public worship, but clergy and parishioners at The Decatur First United Methodist Church stepped forward to assure ministry continued. Through activities such as virtual and online worship, Bible Study, and the mobile food pantry, we responded, in both word and action.

This time of challenges has reminded us that financial support, in the form of tithes and offerings, is necessary to carry out the church’s mission. Whether we gather for worship inside our building, in our parking lots, or online, we continue to be the body of Christ through our prayers, our presence, our gifts, our service, and our witness, and our care for one another.

We cannot know what lies ahead of us, but we remain confident in the assurance of God’s abiding and steadfast love. Because of your generous and faithful gifts, our church can keep doing what love requires of us by nurturing life-giving, joyful ministries both inside and outside our church walls. It was John Wesley who said, “the world is my parish.”

Some members tithe, committing ten percent of their income to the work and missions of our church. Others give proportionally by committing a certain percentage. Still, others give as they are able. In addition to monetary gifts, we are called to serve in the ministries of the church. Attached is a questionnaire for your consideration. Please take a few minutes to complete this.

We ask that you prayerfully consider how you might contribute to the ministries of the church.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss further, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

In His service,

Pastor Donny