In 1982, a small nine-student church school ended the school year with a $4,000 deficit. The conference asked the local church to honor the debt or the school would be shut down.
The new pastor arrived in September. When made aware of the situation, he asked the treasurer and head elder, “What plans are in place to retire the debt?”
They responded, “We don’t have the money; we don’t know what to do.” With only two months to raise the funds, the local pastor reminded the congregation of their need to fulfill their promise and clear the debt.
An anonymous donor announced that he was willing to donate two months’ worth of his salary (half the outstanding debt) if the church would match the rest. The next Sabbath the treasurer passionately pled, “This is a wonderful opportunity we cannot let pass. Folks, we need to match this generous gift!” Her enthusiasm jolted the local church into action. Donations poured in and the debt was retired. Today, that school is a thriving K-12 institution.
Our local conference ministries depend on our sacrificial and systematic support. Let us be faithful and support the work of our local conference with our generous financial contributions.