Give Selflessly

Gifts to and for the church go beyond birthdays and Christmas.  Tangible gifts help to meet a need or demonstrate care and concern, such as donations of food and clothing to our partner ministries or particular items needed for Zion's ongoing ministry.  Non-tangible gifts include the offering of time, talents, and abilities to the people around you.

Volunteering is another way to be generous, giving of your time, physical and mental energy, and talents or abilities to a particular ministry or cause.  At Zion, we intentionally offer volunteer opportunities that are one-time and others that require a short-term or long-term commitment.

Monetary support has traditionally been the most frequently discussed form of generosity in the church.  This is not an accident, though.  So much of what we do requires some kind of financial support, from paying the electricity bill to supporting the ministries of the national and global church.  Those who commit to giving financially do so because they believe money is a means to greater change and transformation in the world around us.

The Bible teaches over and over that the best thing a person can do for someone in need is to show up and listen.  Compassionate listening, encouragement, and being present for people in their need are some of the most powerful ways to give of your time.

At Zion, we consider it essential to our DNA that people feel welcome, accepted, and connected. Creating a hospitable atmosphere involves dedication of time, talent, and treasure in a variety of ways, but the return on the investment is truly extraordinary.

One of the greatest blessings of a generous life is to know that your generous spirit outlives you.  Whether it's bequeathing assets or financial support, this particular kind of generosity ensures that the mission of Jesus Christ through the Church continues into the next generation and beyond.