why give?

“Freely you have received, freely give.”

In a word, that’s why we give. Jesus “for our sakes became poor that we through his poverty might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9).

Which simply means that as radical disciples of Jesus growing in the grace of sacrificial generosity, everything we have is not really ours at all, but his, to be given and used as he leads us.

For generations, giving a tithe (10% of their gross income) so the local church can serve the poor and do the work of ministry has been the starting point of healthy giving. Cheerful, sacrificial generosity is the ultimate goal. As the apostle Paul tells believers in Corinth: “I want each of you to take plenty of time to think it over, and make up your own mind what you will give. That will protect you against sob stories and arm-twisting. God loves it when the giver delights in the giving.” (2 Corinthians 9:6-7 Message)

Ways to give

Planned regular giving is our main and preferred way to give and is a real help to us. Not least because we get 25% tax relief, making your giving go further.

Please contact the church office if you would like us to send you a form. It is easy to do, but is something easily put off. Alternatively, you can give online. No pressure, promise!

We also have an offering basket on Sunday mornings that goes around during the notices. If you are new or ‘just looking’, please don’t feel obliged to put anything in. You are our guest. We are just pleased to have you with us.

If you would like to make lump sum gift, and a taxpayer, we are also able to claim Gift Aid from our friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Please cheques only payable to: Stour Valley Vineyard Church.

Meanwhile, we aim to be totally transparent we all our finances, so please feel free to browse our latest Charity Commissioners’ Report.

Thank you.