Together, we can embody the call to love God and our neighbors in ways that we cannot on our own.
Every week, Lutherans gather to worship, discover community, and live the way of Jesus. As part of this life together, ELCA members give about $1.6 billion annually in regular offerings. Most offerings support local congregations, while a portion—called Mission Support—is shared with synods and the ELCA. Together we raise up leaders, nurture youth, and carry Christ’s love into communities and the world.
Mission Support is possible only through your congregational offering—thank you!
Mission Support Bulletin Insert
As your congregation continues fall budget and stewardship conversations, use this new bulletin insert to spark reflection on Mission Support giving in this synod and our connectedness across this church. Link folks to synod stories, synod videos, the ELCA video, What Does My Offering Do?, and more.
Ready-to-use Discussion Questions
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What is Mission Support (benevolence)? Is this a term you know?
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How does your congregation’s local ministry connect with the work of the NC Synod and/or the ELCA?
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Mission Support is undesignated giving shared for the wider church. What are the scriptural or faithful reasons for undesignated giving? What objections or concerns have people expressed?
- If our congregation raised awareness about Mission Support, what specific stories or ministries would we share to help people connect their gifts to results? (Local → Synod → Churchwide)
- What small, realistic steps can we commit to this year to be more intentional about Mission Support education, awareness, and giving? (Examples: sermon series, bulletin insert, testimonial videos, budget conversation at annual meeting.)
Helpful Resources
- Mission Support: The lifeblood of the ELCA
a Living Lutheran study guide that includes exercises and discussion prompts. - Benevolence and Mission Support (PDF)
a short ELCA Q&A framing for congregational conversation.