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2010 Stewardship
What's Missing in This Picture?
The image of Leonardo Da Vinci's Last Supper is so familiar that we forget to ask the obvious question: Why are all the disciples lined up on one side of the table? Scripture describes an intimate gathering of Jesus’ closest friends, not a banquet with dignitaries at the “head table.”
What was Leonardo’s vision? Perhaps it was simply artistic license — a way to share the disciples’ faces and interactions with the viewer. Or perhaps he wanted us to know that there is a place for us in the upper room. We are invited to Christ’s table. The scene is not complete without us.
At Westminster, scores of people have been working diligently “behind the table” so that all of us may share in the fellowship of Christ. Our programs and activities, our leadership, and especially our finances have been closely examined, and some significant changes are underway. Thanks to the special groups you’ve been reading about in our newsletter (the Noah Team, David Team, and Sustainability Task Force) and all of our dedicated leaders, your session is committed to a more realistic, sustainable mission plan and budget for 2010. We’re working hard to achieve the most effective balance of programs and resources.
That’s a big job, but it’s only half the challenge — only one side of the table. The picture is not complete, and has little meaning, until all of us bring our talents and gifts to the banquet.
As session members, we pledge to carry out the ministry and mission of Christ as joyful servants and diligent stewards. We take this responsibility very seriously, and that’s why we’re writing to you directly, rather than asking a committee to make this appeal.
Our Lord is waiting. Let’s all come to the table!
In the service of Christ,
Your Westminster Session
What Does Your Offering Support?
EDUCATION & SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT
This important area of church life includes all education and spiritual growth programs for children, youth and adults. This portion of the budget funds all Sunday morning opportunities, Westminster Wednesday, small group ministry, nursery and child care, Confirmation, and summer programming.
OUTREACH
Churches United Shelter, Westminster House, Family Violence Center, Habitat for Humanity, our mission connection with Hungary, after-school ministries, support of our sister community in El Salvador, and many other outreach ministries are included in this area of church life. Providing space and support for the Interfaith Hospitality Network and Everybody Wins! Iowa literacy and mentoring program is another important mission focus. Evangelism, Fall Festival activities, new member care, marketing and the website are also included in this area.
CHURCH LIFE
This includes fellowship activities, the work of the Deacons, and the pastoral care activities of the pastors.
WORSHIP & MUSIC
This covers a portion of the pastors’ time, the Minister of Music, Associate Minister of Music/Organist, and support for our choirs, bell choirs and CACTUS Fine Arts camp. The Fine Arts Series is funded through outside gifts.
ADMINISTRATION & PROPERTY
This part of the budget helps keep our doors open, helps us maintain this 72,000 square foot building and supports the administrative side of the church. Printing, copying, postage, insurance, utilities, repairs, custodians, office staff and church administrator are all included in this area.
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
Corinthians 12:27
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