Dining for Dollars

 

There are many organizations we find worthy of our discretionary income. Frankly, there are so many worthy organizations, working hard to eliminate one ethical, moral, or social need, most of us are in a tizzy wondering where our small monthly gift would make the biggest impact.  Animals, children, soldiers, poverty, disasters, and diseases all vie for your donation dollar.

God’s Word helps us figure out who to support.  Read Proverbs 31:8-9 and you will see God’s clear desire for each of us.  Can’t you see these words on a church sign?  Personally, I choose four research or ministry focused organizations to support annually in addition to my regular home church commitment.  Every year, I review who best fits my passion, and then I commit to offer each group what I can afford. How do you decide?

Still not certain your hard earned dollars should be heading out your door?  Look at Romans 12:9-13.  Everything you have should be focused on serving the Lord and sharing His gifts.  There is no reason to think first of yourself or your family, for He has already provided what you need.  Hear me rightly, I am not saying put your family out on the street, I’m saying share your discretionary gifts with others first.  I once met a woman who put this into perspective when she said, “I don’t need two cars; I only need transportation.  I don’t need a large home; I need a safe, dry place to live.”

Because most people enjoy a meal someone else prepares and cleans up, many not-for-profit organizations use delicious food to tug at a person’s heart and purse strings.  It’s a legitimate and worthwhile way to share the passion and purpose of a mission or ministry with individuals who want to know more.  Starting in only three weeks, Trinity members and friends will find delicious and entertaining environments in which to contribute to the future of many worthy and Trinity supported ministries.  Don’t let these virtual invitations lie unopened.  Gala dinners are always extraordinary gastronomic delights, and since you will share a table with people who care exactly about the same social or ethical issue you believe in, the conversation is easy and super-charged.  You know your passion.  Take a look at this list of opportunities to share your enthusiasm with other like-minded individuals. Consider also, if the date doesn’t work for you, but you want to contribute, purchase a ticket(s) and give it as a gift to encourage/make it possible for someone else to get involved…

  • How can you impact Orlando’s poor and homeless?souper douper fundraiser, IDginity

Thursday, September 24: IDignity Souper. Helping our homeless and poverty-stricken neighbors with Florida identification, IDignity is a Trinity sponsored organization in Orlando working steadfastly to provide state identification for all residents of Florida, who are unable to navigate the requirements alone.  The Souper Douper party will be held at the Double Tree Hotel (60 S. Ivanhoe) beginning at 5:45 p.m.  To reserve your free place at the table, contact Diann Grover: 407.587.5957 for details.

  • Want to help your ministry staff?25th annive LCS

Saturday, October 10: Lutheran Counseling Services Anniversary Banquet. For 25 years, Trinity has provided the gift of God’s grace and mercy through counseling and consultation by supporting Lutheran Counseling Services. In addition to individual, couple, and family therapy, LCS provides assistance to strengthen care giving skills and credentials for clergy, educators, and nurses. To reserve your space at a table with other Trinity members, contact: Jamie: 407.644.4692 or Jamie@lcsfl.com.

  • Do you support Life?redeeming life

Saturday, November 14: Redeeming Life Outreach Ministries 2nd  annual dinner highlights the life of unborn and newborn children residing at the only Lutheran maternity home in Florida.  Located in Sanford – only 30 minutes from downtown Orlando – Redeeming Life is a real home of love and acceptance sharing God’s grace and mercy. Trinity is committed to supporting life from conception so this is a high priority ministry.  Our gracious host church is Lutheran Church of the Redeemer in Sanford where the evening celebration begins at 5:30 p.m.  Contact Sheryl: Sheryl@rlom.org or 407.790.9745 for additional information.

 

  • Do you believe young adults need Jesus?

Coming Soon: LiveUCF Gala. This is Pastor Billy’s church plant mission outreach on a close-to-home university campus where souls of young adults can find assurance and hope in the Gospel of Jesus.  The beautiful Christian Center at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church will share the Florida youthful energy Ponce DeLeon sought hundreds of years ago.  Connect and receive more information at: LiveUCF.com/Gala.

submitted by Deaconess Liz Borth