The Joy of Giving: A Response to God's Grace & Generosity
Lead Pastor Dennis Lohr shares a simple reason why he tithes: “God has taken care of us.” Dennis and his wife Sally faithfully give to PCOB, trusting God to provide. Pastor Lohr states, “When we plan our other expenses, we do not consider that 10% available to us. We believe that it belongs to God and to the church.”
Their giving journey included challenges and gradual blessings. Dennis and Sally kept money tight during college and seminary. When they left for seminary, their combined belongings fit into an eleven-foot U-Haul. Years later, when moving to Palmyra, they needed a tractor and trailer, two vehicles, and a long flatbed trailer. As parents to four children, Sally and Dennis supported their boys' educational pursuits, passions, and activities, and provided a safe, comfortable home. Just last Fall, he and Sally paid off their 30-year mortgage in full. “The point is that even when things felt tight, we had a comfortable life, provided well for our family, and accumulated a lot of stuff. God has taken care of us.”
What does this commitment look like in actual dollars? Pastor Lohr shares that last year, their 10% commitment was $9,700. He explains, “We believe in this congregation, its people, its mission, its impact on one another and the communities around us, and its future”. Additionally, Dennis and Sally gave an initial gift of $3,000 to the Building for Today & Tomorrow Fund, and committed to giving $2,500 annually. Pastor Lohr offers a simple way to begin your giving journey: “Identify the current percentage of your income that you give and consider gradually increasing it as you are able”.
Giving is not a one size fits all, and Pastor Lohr acknowledges that their approach to giving is not one size fits all: “I share these numbers not to compare our giving with anyone else's. It is not to suggest that everyone's circumstances are the same. I share them because I want you to know that Sally and I are answering the same questions we are asking this congregation”. Dennis emphasizes that his sharing is to tell you that, “we have lived it, we have faced the challenges, and we have been okay”. How you make your commitment to PCOB is yours to discern. Gifts of all amounts are precious and valued.
"Just imagine," Pastor Lohr invites, “Imagine what our church could do with stronger financial resources: nurture faith, strengthen our ministries, serve our neighbors, grow our congregation, and share our gentle yet challenging message of God's unconditional love for all and the importance of walking in the way of Jesus."
Pastor Lohr looks back with pride on what he and Sally have helped accomplish at PCOB. He looks ahead with excitement as we continue to embark together on making a positive difference in the lives of others and in God’s work in our world. “And that brings me deep joy,” he states, “I invite you to consider your own giving and discover that joy for yourself.”
Reminder: If you received a Pledge Card since September 20, please fill it out and return it to PCOB by October 4.
If you feel led to support our mission today, we offer three easy ways to give:
Text: Text 844-723-3479 to give.
Check: Drop your gift in the offering box or mail it to the church office at 45 North Chestnut Street, Palmyra, PA 17078
