Mission Focus

Spotlight on One Great Hour of Sharing

Everywhere we turn we are bombarded by exhortations to be good stewards of the earth. The current "Go Green" and "Eco-Friendly" messages permeate through print, voice and television media outlets. As Christians we respond to these ideas because they resonate with our view of stewardship. But, stop and wonder how different the world might be if we were broadcasting the entire vision of Christian stewardship as a way of life?

At Westminster we believe that Christian stewardship is not encompassed in a once a year "campaign" to give to the church, or a special building fund plea. Christian stewardship is not an event, but a lifestyle, which has more to do with hearts than with pledge cards.

The life of Christian stewardship brings us closer to God. It is a spiritual discipline which helps us grow in the likeness of Christ.

Christian stewardship cannot be coerced. It springs forth not from guilt or duty, but from gratitude for the transformative experience of the grace of God in Christ Jesus.

Christian stewardship begins with the realization that all you have and all you are belongs to God.

While financial giving is important, Christian stewardship includes the understanding that very often our time and talents are needed most.

When we think of stewardship, our Christian perspective informs us that we are caretakers of the earth because it is a gift from God who created not only us, but all that is.

As Christians, we reconsider the current world view that abundance is measured by possessions, wealth and power. Instead, an abundance of faith, hope, relationships, and generosity defines our view of success in life.

Our personal lives should be guided by Christian stewardship, but so also should our communal life. The decisions of families, congregations, and governing bodies are permeated with guidance and grace when conducted in the attitude of Christian stewardship.

Local and National Causes-

Westminster continues to support the Cape Henlopen Food Basket which provides essential food for individuals and familities in our area.

West Side New Beginnings mission is to improve the health and livelihood of children and youth. We joyfully participate in this program.

October's Buddy Walk is supported by gifts, member participation and member leadership to enhance the lives of those with Down's Syndrome.

Habitat for Humanity in Sussex County also receives member participation & leadership along with financial support to help homeowner families reach their dream.

Global Outreach-

We support the work of Stuart and Cathie Showalter who are working as Wycliffe Bible Translators bringing God's word to Burkina Faso.

The Swaziland Church has become close to our hearts as John Hawkins introduced their need for a place to worship and praise God.

Our African outreach extends to Dr. Cecile De Sweemer at Butoke where our gifts help alleviate suffering and hunger of children in the Congo.

World Vision is doing amazing work in Africa where malaria is rampant and something as simple as mosquito netting saves lives every day.

We joyfully support our partner in mission Clovis Mutombo who is studying every day to become a health care professional. We are blessed to have "our Congo Connection" here as he worships with us and prepares himself to offer health services to his people.

The stewardship focus communication above is indebted to and adapted from a statement of 8 Principles of Biblical Stewardship published via the internet by the Cimmaron Presbytery in Oklahoma.

The mission focus communication above is indebted to and adapted from a statement of the Westminster Mission Committee prepared by its' chairperson, Elsie Marshall.