As followers of Christ, we are called to be generous stewards of God’s blessings, recognizing that all we have is a gift from God. Throughout Scripture, we are reminded of the power of giving—Jesus himself taught that “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Giving is an act of faith, a tangible expression of our love for God, our neighbors, and ourselves. It enables us to continue the vital work of ministry in Decatur and beyond, ensuring that our church remains a place of worship, hospitality, and service for generations to come.

At our Episcopal church, financial giving directly supports the many ways we live out our mission. Each year, we distribute approximately $60,000 in outreach grants to local organizations, helping those in need and strengthening our community. We also provide space in the Episcopal Center for the Community Free Clinic and Parents and Children Together (PACT), offering essential resources to those who might not otherwise have access. Additionally, your generosity helps maintain our historic and beautiful church building—a sacred space where we gather to worship, celebrate, and find peace. Giving also ensures that we can fairly compensate our clergy and staff, who dedicate their time and talents to pastoral care, formation, and service. As we seek to fulfill the greatest commandments—to love God and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39)—we invite you to join us in sustaining and growing this ministry through your financial support.

But giving is more than financial—it is also about offering our time. The work of the church depends on volunteers who serve in countless ways, from preparing meals for those in need to teaching Sunday school, from participating in worship as acolytes, lectors, and choir members to offering a warm welcome to visitors. When we give our time, we are following the example of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve (Mark 10:45). Every hour spent in service strengthens the bonds of our community and extends Christ’s love into the world.

Likewise, God calls us to share our unique talents in ministry. Whether you have a gift for music, organization, hospitality, craftsmanship, or caregiving, your talents can be used to glorify God and serve others. As Paul writes, “there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:4), and each of us has something valuable to offer. From maintaining our church grounds to leading Bible studies, from mentoring youth to helping with technology and communications, every skill contributes to the life of the church and its mission in the world.

When we give our treasure, our time, and our talents, we reflect the generosity of God and participate in the ongoing work of building God’s kingdom. Through our collective giving, we sustain our worship, strengthen our ministries, and reach out in love to those in need. We invite you to join us in this sacred calling, knowing that every act of giving—large or small—is a step in faith and an expression of God’s love at work in our lives and in our community.