Each year in October we take some time to focus on Stewardship and what that means as we grow in our faith and relationship with God.

Our theme this year is,
“Gratitude: Interlude or Attitude”

Is gratitude something that we think about periodically on special occasions or is it part of our daily lives? We have much to be grateful for here at Walton where we have a vibrant, caring community and so many opportunities to worship, learn, enjoy friendships, help others and have fun together.

What happens at Walton is a result of the time, talents and treasure that we all provide. During our Stewardship Campaign we invite you to pray and reflect on what you are grateful for and how you demonstrate that gratitude in your life and the life and work of our Walton community.

Your financial commitment helps us to plan for and provide all our important ministries. Over the last few years, offerings to our General Fund have been declining, so if you are able to, please consider an increase. Whatever the amount, it will make a difference. Your time is just as important so if you are interested in becoming more involved, please fill out the “Time and Talents” pledge card.

You can also complete both your Estimate of Givings and “Time and Talent” card on our website at waltonmemorial.com/church-life/stewardship.

You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
~ 2 Corinthians 9:11

Mark your calendar and join us on Sunday, October 28 between services as we celebrate stewardship, our blessings and enjoy a time to celebrate God’s love and our Walton family.

Walton Memorial United Church is a registered non-profit organization that relies on contributions from its member, adherent and friends to accomplish our Mission and Ministries. Our small but dedicated team ensures even the smallest contributions go a long way to offer Ministry and programming in the areas of Worship, Learning, Caring and Reaching out as we continue to live out God’s transforming love in so many faith-filled ways. Please donate here.

“Give generously to him and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.” ~ Deuteronomy 15:10

Walton’s Stewardship committee works in collaboration with both Administrative and Ministerial staff to deliver a holistic Stewardship program at Walton. The Stewardship Program at Walton includes Year-Round Congregational Stewardship with a focus on Six Best Practices.

1. Operational Management
2. Stewardship Integration in Worship
3. Stewardship Formation
4. Stewardship Leadership
5. Spiritual-Nurture Opportunities
6. Engagement in Outreach Activities

Annual programs supported by the Stewardship Committee:

1. Our PAR program – Pre-Authorized Remittance or PAR is a program administered by the United
   • Church of Canada allowing members to give regularly to the church – even when they are away or on vacation! We know that as our membership in the PAR program increases so to does our financial stability and our ability to forecast and plan for the future.
2. Fall Annual Givings Review — each year we celebrate stewardship at Walton and ask members and adherents to assist in the budgeting process by making estimates of their annual giving.
3. Annual Narrative Budget — the Annual Narrative Budget helps tell the congregation’s story and connects the Time, Talent and Treasures we invest with the congregation’s ministries
4. Special Needs and Capital Projects: some years, we require special efforts to meet unusual needs or capital projects. Stewardship leads the fundraising initiatives to meet these needs.

In recent years, special fundraising initiatives have included:

2014 – Heating revitalization and Air Condition Installation in the Sanctuary
2011 – Restoration of our 100-year-old Stained Glass Windows
2005 – Repairs on the church foundation after a collapsed wall
2003 – Repainting of the church