Bagging Big Bucks
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From the Open Files of: |
NW Synod of Wisconsin Resource Center, (715) 833-1153 |
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Contributed by: |
First Lutheran Church, Eau Claire, WI |
An idea, a different "twist"
Wisconsin's hunting season is part of our culture, so First Lutheran
in Eau Claire took the theme of "bagging big bucks" for
hunger.
Besides publicizing the hunger appeal with inserts and announcements,
we added a new twist. While the pastor presented the idea during announcements,
two of our teenagers were in the altar area behind her, one dressed
as the hunter in a blaze orange jacket, the other as the deer with
antlers. The hunter looked high and low as the deer kept behind him
and out of reach. The hunter didn't bag his buck but First Lutheran's
hunger appeal did with over $6000 contributed.
Enclosed is the letter to the congregation with blaze orange envelopes
sent out with the letter and also placed in bulletins on the day of
our hunger appeal. Note the buck on the envelope.
Dear First Responders,
Yes, I address you as First Responders, because it has become apparent to me,
even within the short time that I have been with you, that this is a congregation
that joyfully and generously responds to serving the needs of your neighbors
in Christ's name. The great history of generous support for the cause of hunger
is no exception. I marvel and give God thanks for the response that has become
a tradition at First Lutheran in being a recognized leader in supporting Feed
My People and other local food pantries, work at the Community Table, and partnership
in the Interfaith Hospitality Network.
Like many of you, I know the statistics about hunger. I have heard and read
the moving stories of people who live daily with the reality of hunger and
its related
diseases. I know that even people with jobs are joining the ranks of those
turning to food shelves. I have also given thought to the Scriptures, especially
Proverbs
31:8-9, which challenges us to "Speak out for those who cannot speak. Speak
out for the rights of all who are helpless. Speak out, judge righteously, and
defend the rights of the poor and needy." In an effort toward speaking
out, I know enough about hunger to raise my voice and join you and countless
others
in responding to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal.
I know you will respond. Join me in giving a generous gift as a special offering
designated for world hunger relief on November 10. First Lutheran has been
challenged to set a goal that each baptized member share at least a $5 gift
to this important
appeal. Many will joyfully share more. Timing of this appeal has raised thoughts
about all that many in Wisconsin do at this time of the year to prepare for
the hunting season. Some will hunt for sport and others for food source. May
all
of us be moved to respond to our brothers and sisters who do not have enough
to eat. The Social Action Committee, on behalf of the ELCA World Hunger Appeal,
will "bag" your "bucks" for hunger relief - even before
the hunting season opens! We've even enclosed a blaze orange envelope to do
so!
Take a moment to prayerfully respond and consider what your gift will be. Please
be generous in your giving, because the need is extraordinary. First Lutheran's
gifts, along with 11,000 other ELCA congregations, will support the greater
church's work to end chronic hunger and poverty. Through these efforts, numerous
lives
are being improved and sustained throughout the world. We will graciously receive
all "bagged bucks" at worship on Sunday, November 16th• Use
the enclosed envelope to bring your gift on that day. Thank you in advance
for your
generous and faithful response to this call.
In Christ's Name.
Pastor Amy Odgren
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