Stewards of God's Grace
From the Co-Chairs
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins… Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as good stewards of God’s grace.”
—1 Peter 4:8–10
Dear St. Paul’s,
When we were engaged, our minister reminded us how different we are. He wasn’t wrong—on of us is outgoing, the other more reserved. One of us loves books; the other, spreadsheets. One finds it on sale; the other prefers to save. And yet, we work (most days!). Not in spite of our differences, but because of them.
In a later meeting, our minister shared the passage (above) from 1 Peter. It meant so much to us, we printed it in our wedding program. Years later, when asked to help with this year’s Stewardship Campaign, we found that program again—and it inspired this year’s theme!
This passage isn’t just about marriage—it speaks to all of us in the many organizations in which we work and lead, especially our church. St. Paul’s is a growing, thriving community because we bring our different gifts and callings, united in love and purpose. Whether you’ve been here for 30 years or just 3 Sundays, you’ve probably felt that energy in the pews.
Like many of you, we’ve found our own ways to serve—Mark on the finance committee, Kate in the Flower Guild. Our kids have been involved in many ways, too. Behind all of it, though, is the foundation that makes ministry possible: the generous financial support of fellow parishioners.
Each fall, we thoughtfully make our pledge. We consider prayerfully what is the right amount for us. We commit early and intentionally. Giving is part of our spiritual practice, and we hope that you’ll join us this year in making a pledge, not just your financial commitment, but by being involved as well.
So, as you consider your own time, talents, and treasure, we invite you: get involved, give generously, and be a Good Steward!
With love and gratitude,
Kate & Mark Reece
Each fall, St. Paul’s asks every parishioner to make a financial commitment to support the ongoing ministries of church during the coming year. If you are new to the church or about to make your first-ever pledge, we hope these questions and answers will be helpful.
Pledging is your heartfelt, faithful spiritual practice to financially support the ministries and programs of St. Paul’s for the coming year. It is a personal example of gratitude that you have for all our God has given to you and your family.
Pledges provide the Vestry with an estimate of expected income essential to the preparation of the church’s annual budget. St. Paul’s simply cannot operate and thrive without a reasonable estimate of its financial resources. Your pledge reinforces the importance of God and St. Paul’s in your life. St. Paul’s does not include non-pledge contributions of the previous year in the budget preparations or the approaching year. When non-pledge contributions are received, they are used to supplement the budget for the current year.
Your pledge is a personal decision between God, you and your family. It should be grounded in your faith, love and commitment to God’s work through St. Paul’s. It requires reflection, prayer, and priority.
Yes. Pledges are kept confidential.
Cash or Check (no fees)
Include name and 2026 Pledge in memo line.
Bank Draft (no fees)
Provide a voided check with your pledge card. The draft is on or close to the 20th of the month and is drafted directly from the office.
Credit Card Draft (lowest fees)
The Parish Accountant processs these on the 20th of the month or close to it. Please provide that information on your pledge card or call and speak with the Director of Stewardship for more information.
Donor Advised Funds, Stocks, and IRA Contributions
We are happy to work with your advisors and bank representatives. Please let the Director of Stewardship know if you are utilizing this option. We have had gifts come in the past without parishioners’ names on them and would like to be good stewards of your gifts as they are received and intended to be used.
Pledge Pre-Payments
If you wish to prepay your 2026 pledge on or before December 31st, 2025, please note on the memo line of a check or go to tithe.ly and find the 2026 Pledge Pre-Payment option.
Yes. We are glad to accept pre-payments. Please let us know on your pledge card that you plan to pay your 2026 pledge in advance.
We understand that life’s circumstances do change, often unexpectedly. Contact Victoria Bass to have your pledge amount adjusted at any time during the year.
Contact the Director of Stewardship, at 336-723-4391, ext. 1210, or vbass@stpauls-ws.org. Council available upon request.