Giving
Faith is a response to what God has done and continues to do for us. As Christians, we believe that forgiveness and eternal life are gifts of grace from God. They are not something we deserve; but rather gifts from a loving God. One way that we respond to these gifts is to make offerings of our financial resources so that this gospel message is taught and preached. Through our offerings, we can make a difference in people’s lives every day!
At First Lutheran, we make two financial promises to support the ministry of Christ’s church.
The First Lutheran General Fund provides the annual financial support for all of the core ministries of the church. The congregation also gives gifts to worthy beneficiaries that provide resources for children’s ministries, bible camping, emergency assistance, overseas missionaries, seminaries, nursing homes, etc.
A Firm Foundation Appeal is a three-year initiative that provides funding to keep our church campus in great shape which includes our two parking lots. These lots make it convenient and safe for worshippers to park. We also are passionate about helping other people with their needs in our community, regionally, nationally and internationally; so, it is important that the A Firm Foundation Appeal support missions too.
A Firm Foundation Appeal Gifts can be designated to one, several or all of the following organizations:
START, SToughton Area Resource Team assists Stoughton area residents in need through a social worker. Appeal gifts will be used to offer counseling, provide care and meet immediate needs of those in our community who are struggling. As a result, they will also help people “get back on their feet” so that they can provide for themselves and gain more self-respect in the process. Other congregations in Stoughton help fund START as well.
Lutherdale Bible Camp inspires youth and adults to learn about Jesus in the great outdoors. The camp has built a new retreat center with financial support from FLC’s prior appeals. Now, our appeal gifts will be used to pay off the mortgage and furnish the center. This will help others experience Lutherdale’s hospitality and grow in their faith for years to come!
Lutheran Services In America coordinates the work of 300 independent Lutheran Health and Human Service organizations in the USA. They serve at least one of every 50 Americans each year through a variety of services to seniors, the disabled, children/youth/families, immigrants and refugees. They also support affordable housing and community development. In Wisconsin, they work with 123 different locations in 57 different cities throughout our state.
Tanzanian Missionaries: Ndumieshi Nkga (Evangelist) and Tunsubilege Philemon Mwasbngwe (Social Worker). Ndumieshi is a passionate evangelist serving in the villages surrounding Bariadi, Tanzania. She spreads the Gospel through door-to-door outreach, prayer meetings, and impactful community events such as Jesus Movie nights. She also oversees four new church plants, where she preaches, trains leaders, teaches Sunday School, and disciples new believers. Her commitment to these growing congregations ensures that each village has a strong foundation for spiritual growth and ongoing discipleship. Plus, she works to combat harmful cultural practices such as witchcraft, child marriage, and female genital mutilation. Tunsubilege serves as a dedicated social worker for the Lutheran parish in Bariadi, Tanzania, working to improve the well-being of families in remote and underserved communities. She blends social care with Gospel outreach, ensuring that individuals receive practical assistance and spiritual encouragement. Her daily work includes visiting families in need, providing counseling, and offering guidance on overcoming challenges related to poverty, health, and social stability.