Words from the Pastor

Modeling Generosity

“Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift. is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” James 1:17 NRSV

Four times a year we send a payment to the United Church of Christ to cover health insurance and pension expenses for your pastor. About a month ago we received a letter from our denomination with great news. The letter explained that the United Church of Christ’s investments did very well in the first quarter of 2011. In fact they did so well, that the denomination decided to share the windfall by reducing the health insurance bill of all participating congregations. The bill we received for the second quarter health insurance payment reflects a savings of 33%. What a blessing that we are part of a denomination that not only encourages our generosity, but at the same time models it.

According to the letter of James, “every generous act of giving . . .is from above.” Let us praise the Lord for the generosity of the United Church of Christ. May their generosity inspire ours.

Surely the response of this congregation of God’s people to the Spring Storms appeal has been a generous one. To date we have received $600 in gifts in support of those victimized by tornados and floods. Thanks be to God!!!

Yours in Christ’s service,
Pastor Becca