Consecration Sunday

Consecration Sunday is one of the finest stewardship programs available and has shown fruitful results around the diocese. Parishes using this program have averaged 15 to 30% increased annual giving. The program incorporates the use of a Guest Leader who meets with the Consecration Sunday Committee six weeks before the program to go over the time line in the manual and to be certain everyone understands their role. The emphasis of this program is on the need of the giver to give, not on the monetary needs of the congregation.

During the three Sundays prior to Consecration Sunday, stewardship talks set the day firmly in members minds. The week before, reservations are received for a CATERED Celebration Luncheon held after worship on Consecration Sunday. When there is more than one service, it is recommended a brunch follow the earlier services, and a lunch following the later service.

On the Sunday evening before Consecration Sunday, the Guest Leader meets with the Consecration Sunday Committee, Vestry, and spouses at a local restaurant. The guest leader speaks to the leadership about their role in the program, and the biblical dimensions of stewardship. Cards with the names of those who have yet to make reservations are passed out in order to make personal phone calls to invite them to the Celebration Luncheon. On Consecration Sunday, the Guest Leader returns again, and preaches in the morning Worship Services. A tally takes place after the worship service, and the results are announced at the Celebration Luncheon.

If you'd like to discuss Consecration Sunday more fully, contact The Rev. Canon Tim Anderson at tanderson@episcopal-ne.org or call the Diocese of Nebraska 402 341-5373.