GIVING WHEN THERE’S NO OFFERING PLATE #2

            It’s been a couple of weeks since I’ve offered a blog, but I wanted to continue our discussion on giving when there’s no offering plate.

            When we used to pass the plate, there was a little bit of peer pressure, and people knew (usually) what they were supposed to do: drop a little something in the plate. Some people didn’t like it. But there was something to be said for a connection with each person in the pew. When the person sitting right next to you is passing you the plate or basket, it can’t be ignored, can it?

            Now, the plate or basket may be placed at the door or somewhere else. For those of us familiar with that particular church, we know where to look. But what about others. My husband and I visited a church recently. We’d been there before, but that was back “before.” I had pulled the money out of my wallet and placed it just inside my purse so I could easily drop it in the plate when it came by. And then…I watched the usher stride up the aisle right to the altar table and place the offering plate there to be prayed over.

            I’d missed my chance! Steve looked at me and muttered “I didn’t even see where to put the money when we came in.” It probably was easily found, but, even now, stewardship or not, two years hence or not, I seldom think to look for the plate on the way in.

            Then there are those persons worshipping virtually. While we may give them QR codes or links to go to make an offering, there doesn’t seem to be much of a connection between the offering and the worshipper, does there?

            We have to make the offering, whether it’s in person or virtual; whether a plate’s being passed or stashed somewhere else; connected to everyone. The offering time isn’t just a throw away moment; it is a vital part of worship.

            It’s important and it should be joyful! I encourage you to go to Youtube and type in "church offering dance" and see what pops up! Wouldn’t it be exciting if offerings were done that way?

            REMINDER: The Stewardship Academy is being held April 23^rd, May 21^st, June 18^th and July 16^th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you are interested in a registration form or information on the academy itself, please let me know (susanranous@unyumc.org)