Page update: July 2025
Why Give?
Stewardship is a spiritual attitude that begins with the understanding that all we are and all we own are gifts, freely given by our loving God. And when that fact, that everything is an unmerited gift, seeps deeply into our consciousness, there are at least two outcomes:
- A deep yearning to somehow "give back" in thanksgiving some share of all that has been given; and
- A dawning understanding of the need to use those gifts wisely and responsibly.
One definition of stewardship, "an attitude of responsive and responsible gratitude." Our stewardship becomes, the measure of our discipleship-the way we live out our call as Christians to follow Jesus.
Why Give continued...
- Because all things are from God in the beginning. "The earth is the Lord's adn all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it..." Psalm 24:1
- Because the talents I utilize and develop in a paying career are gifts from the One who made me.
- Because God made humans to be caretakers, not just consumers.
- Because what I give back to God is a response to God's love and amazing grace to me.
- Because the Bible says to give to others.
- Because giving money is not just about budgets, but rather about practicing a spiritual discipline. My relationship with Jesus Christ is more in tune when I give.
- Because "practice makes perfect." Tithing is a spiritual discipline to be practiced, cultivated, and improved, just like prayer, scripture study, service, worship, fasting, and such.
- Because when we join the UMC, we promise that we'll support our local church with our prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness.
- Because I trust the siblings who are leaders of the church , and who are both lay (non-clergy) and clergy. I trust their decision making about faithful uses of money and know they'll welcome my voice.
- I give to Atwater United Methodist Church because I have witnessed with my own eyes the transforming, resurrecting power of God's love. It effects people's lives and hearts, in part through the ministries that this church performs and provides. In the real world, ministries need supplies, leaders, staff, equipment, curriculum, paper, bread, and other worldly stuff for an out of this world revelation of love.
If you would like to Give, please make check or money order to:
Atwater United Methodist Church
2550 Linden Street
Atwater, CA. 95301
You can also stop by our office at the same address.
Contact our office for further information at (209) 358-6172
Thank you for considering our ministry, keep us in your prayers. God bless you!