Stewardship @ Sycamore
In worship we regularly sing, "Praise God from whom all blessings flow."
Blessings really do … flow. As in the way water flows. In currents. No wonder we call it currency.
At Sycamore, we believe those blessings don't stop with us — they move through us, into our church, our neighbors and the world.
Stewardship is about much more than money. Sure, our financial giving matters, and it does a great deal of good. But God has entrusted us with much more: our time; the places we live, work and worship; our friendships; our honesty; our health; our ability to lead. Each of these is a kind of currency — something of real value we can offer back to God and share with others.
The cycle of blessings
In his book entitled Holy Currencies, Episcopal priest and Kaleidoscope Institute founder Eric H. F. Law describes six blessings that keep a ministry alive and growing. These are listed below.
The idea is that currencies shouldn’t sit still. They flow in and out of each other. A new friendship at church leads to an honest conversation about a neighbor's need. That conversation becomes a gift and a meal delivered, and someone is made whole. When we share any one of our gifts, the whole wheel turns.
Time and Space
The hours we share and the spaces we open. Our campus on Mason Road hosts a preschool, a School of Music, community workshops, seasonal events for fellowship and fun. Giving time and opening our doors are acts of faith.
Relationship
Ministry begins with knowing one another. A meal from Cooks on Call or a visit with one of our weekly prayer partners after worship is stewardship too.
Truth-Telling
Telling our stories honestly and listening to our neighbors' stories. Truth is how we learn what God is calling us to do next — in Bible study, in our Fall Speaker Series, in candid conversations around the cafe.
Wellness
Caring for the whole person — body, mind and spirit. Through our Deacons, GriefShare, Cancer Support and Thrive Workshops, we tend to one another so we can keep giving.
Gracious Leadership
Leading in a way that makes room for others' gifts. Whether you serve as an elder or deacon, teach a class or organize a single event, your leadership is an offering.
Money
Our financial gifts turn the other currencies into ministry: keeping the lights on, paying staff, funding missions. Our giving is a response to God's generosity first.