The Way We Give Matters

When I would go to mass on occasion with my grandfather at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Wapakoneta, he would give me some coins that he had on his dresser, so that I could drop them in the offering when the ushers brought the offering plates around. Although there was some red felt in the middle of the plate, I used to love to hit the side with the coins, so people would know that I was putting some “real” money in the plate.

It wasn’t the best stewardship practice of my life; however, I was just seven years old, so cut me some slack.

But I have always enjoyed giving, and I particularly like the way we give at Prince of Peace. Only our members support our budget. All other collected monies or causes or appeals go outside of our church. That’s the way it should be.

Some churches have bingo, and carnivals, and raffles to help support the ministry that they do, we have faithful givers. When visitors visit and put something in the collection plate, we designate it for one or our local charities. When we have a big rummage sale (like Closet Cause – August 18 & 19 – sign up to help and bring stuff for us to sell!!!!!!), all of that raised money goes outside our congregation to help people in need around the world – not a dime of it stays here.

And even our annual budget, that we all contribute to, includes an additional 15-20% of gifts beyond our congregation.

The way we give matters. Yes, we give to support our staff, building and ministry here at Prince of Peace. But we also give in ways that others might be raised up and supported. 
Giving with you, 

Pastor John D. Morris, Senior Pastor