New Consecration Sunday

By Robyn Westphal

Team Leader for New Consecration Sunday at Christus Victor

In April of this year, Christus Victor Lutheran Church (CVLC) celebrated the culmination of the New Consecration Sunday Stewardship Program, as outlined in the book written by Herb Miller. Let us first back up to fall of 2018 when CVLC found itself wondering how it would meet ministry plan aspirations with an ever shrinking pocketbook. In discussion with the stewardship team at the SC Synod office, the New Consecration Sunday Stewardship Program was suggested to encourage a better understanding of spiritual giving. With the help of the synod, we began to work on a plan to make use of the program. Ron Walrath was invited to serve as Guest Leader. The New Consecration Sunday Stewardship Program gave us the tools to change our approach. Rather than ask our congregation to give more, we shared with them the value of their contributions and made space for the Holy Spirit to do the rest. Our experience was amazing. NCS employs three key components that are easily overlooked: communication, personal testimony, and perhaps the most important, trust in the power of the Holy Spirit. The program is very detailed and if carefully adhered to, will result in success. The various details allow space for the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts of each member of the congregation. Then each is called to act in faith to help bring about the will of God. With the help of the SC Synod and the New Consecration Sunday Stewardship Program, CVLC has experienced spiritual growth and the promise of financial growth. Praise be to God.