StewardshipIf you love something, take good care of it.

There is a wonderful parable in Mathew 25 about a master who wanted to see how his servants used their talents.  One spent them, one buried them, and one invested them. Although the Talent was a unit of Roman money, this story can be interpreted either way, about prudent use of money or skills. A community needs both.

An outreach-focused church will always have goals about how to best serve the community with big plans that cost time and money to bring to fruition. While tithing is not a requirement of being a member at Bellevue First Congregational Church, we recognize that big plans require the combined talents (in all forms) of a large number of people. For some people, financial support is the best way to contribute to the goals. For others, the volunteer time is a better match, on one of our many commissions or committees. Yet others have the ability to contribute musical skills to enhance our worship services. Together, we can accomplish big goals and appreciate each other’s contributions of time and talents.

Another aspect of stewardship has become increasingly important in our church as well. Part of leaving the world a little better than you found it is taking care of the environment. How do we jump off the “live large” train and live sustainably? Part of the answer to this question is to discuss with others what has worked with their families. See what works for you, and then share those learnings with others in the community; together, we can provide an example for others to follow.

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Stewardship Q&A

Q: How much should I give?
A: This is a confidential and personal decision shared only with Sally Moore (Finance) in the church office; not even the pastors will know what you decide. But there is a wide range of pledging by our members, so here is something to consider as you make your decision.

As Christians, we are called to give in proportion to our income and the demands upon it, in proportion to our awareness of those who suffer, and in proportion to our sense of justice and of God’s ownership of all wealth. When we commit to give to God’s work through Bellevue FCC, we renew our covenant with one another and with God.

If we truly understand that everything we have comes from God, then we are simply giving back to God part of what we have been given. A tithe or 10% of one’s income has traditionally been the amount Christians have been encouraged to give back to God. The Stewardship Commission suggests you consider the “modern” tithe, which means you share approximately 5% with the church and 5% with other charities of your choice.

To help you experiment with this concept, we offer a web-based calculator that provides proportionate giving amounts based on your income and goals and a Microsoft Excel giving worksheet (PC and Mac format) to help you plan your overall charitable giving. Spreadsheet directions and a completed sample for tax planning are also available.

Q: Can I give electronically?
A: Yes. To help make monthly pledging more convenient, there is an option to set up an electronic transfer from your checking account. The Electronic Funds Transfer form (PDF) can be downloaded and printed. After you have completed the form, please send it to Sally Moore in the church office.

Q: Money isn’t everything. Can I give in other ways?
A: Absolutely! A community thrives on contributions of time and talent. We need participation in worship services, volunteers in commissions and committees, and ecological commitments that can leave the earth a little bit better than we found it. The Jump on Board form (PDF) identifies opportunities to get involved and make a difference. Download it today and turn it in to the church office.