Stewardship

Dear People of Zion,

What an incredible year! Not only has Zion seen remarkable growth related to membership, programming, and engagement this year, but so many have commented on the spirit of Zion – that it feels like a warm, joyful, kind community. As Deb Cantrell said…

I look forward to Sunday at Zion. This is the first time in my religious history that this has been the case, looking forward to Sunday…to see you guys…to see your smiling eyes. I thank Pastor Mindy for this…the never a dull moment at Zion atmosphere…the excitement around the Sunday worship. And the chance to study God’s word together…easily the highlight of my week, thinking about what we can learn together. And I leave this church on Sunday “happy”, so glad I came, so ‘blessed’ to use an overused word…just a warmth inside, an uplift of my spirit, “a ride on the heights of the land” like Isaiah promised. 

You have created all of this, Zion. Thank you. For your faithfulness, generosity, and encouragement to one another, for the tender ways you love each other, for the clarity with which you live out the Gospel here in the Heights, we are so deeply grateful. What a remarkable thing to witness.

In 2023, giving at Zion jumped to record levels. At this time last year, 55 households collectively pledged $275,000 for 2023, which itself was a record – but in actuality, giving is projected to be closer to $315,000 this year. Holy moly, Zion! What remarkable generosity. Thank you.

This means that for the first time in a very long time, Zion stands to pass a balanced budget for 2024, which enables Zion’s continued and long-term flourishing. To achieve this, our goal is 62 pledges – would you consider being one of them? The pledge information is below or can be found here.

Finally – what is it that you love the most at Zion these days? Whatever it is, you might also consider making a one-time gift by the end of the year to support your favorite budgeted item. These “budget sponsorships” help Zion start the calendar year strong and help keep your favorites at the forefront of Zion’s life together. See what speaks to you as you read these descriptions. You can sponsor in part or in full.

Thank you again, Zion. What a joy to serve in a community so generous and active, so uplifting and warm.

With deep gratitude for your partnership in the Gospel,

Pastor Mindy Roll & President Andrea Abat

P.S. Pledge cards can be downloaded here and returned to the church office by mail or email (officeadmin@zionlutheranhouston.org) or placed in the little white church in the narthex during the month of October. You will also be receiving one in the mail this week, and there are extras in the narthex.

On Reformation Sunday, October 29, we hope to announce that the goal has been met!