Welcome to Plymouth's Stewardship Department

"As soon as the word spread, the people of Israel gave in abundance the first fruits of grain, wine, oil, honey, and of all the produce of the field; and they brought in abundantly the tithe of everything." 2 Chronicles 31:5

The Stewardship Department shall develop and implement a comprehensive fund raising strategy (annual, new member, capital and legacy giving). It shall also endeavor to raise the congregation’s awareness of the relationship between our giving and our faith. The President and Treasurer serve as ex-officio, voting members of the Stewardship Department.

Abundant Life, 2010 Annual Campaign
Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.  And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work.
2 Corinthians 9:7-8

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The following questions were asked by the Stewardship Committee as part of their GIFTS (Giving in Faith to Serve) Campaign in 2008:

Why is Plymouth important to you?

It is a community of people who I care about, and who care about me. It is a community that fights for what is right, within our congregation and our denomination, within the community of Shaker Heights and throughout the world.

At first, I came (and joined) because I had friends here; I stay and remain active because Plymouth has become a place where change is the norm and is an exciting place to be.     — Gloria Sturghill

It feeds my soul.

It's my church home and family.

Friendly people that give of themselves, great sermons, pastoral care given in times of need, great music. 

— Paul Qua

A peaceful and self-motivating time for me each week. — Tique Oeflein

Plymouth has been my church home since I was a young girl. When I think of worship, church music, benevolent outreach, I think of Plymouth.    — Marcia Christian

Because it welcomes all people from all over the world.  — Wyatt Sweeney

Plymouth is my family in Cleveland.  It is my community – where I can share my faith, my hopes and dreams, and where I can mess up, make mistakes and be forgiven.  — Jeannie Clarkson

Worship in a community of believers. Good people trying to make a difference in the world.  An outlet for charitable activity.  — age 75

Plymouth is important to me because I feel renewed after hearing the very thoughtful sermons and enjoying uplifting music. Music is important to maintaining my spiritual growth and Plymouth has always been mindful of the importance of excellent music. Plymouth is also physically close to where we live. Plymouth is where we have chosen to commit for the past 45 years, where our four children attended, where our daughter was married and from where she was eulogized after her death. Plymouth is important because I have participated in many aspects of the services here: ArtsPlymouth, Sunday School teacher, Couples Club, fundraising events, choir, IHN and more.

What gifts has Plymouth given to you?

The greatest gift is Plymouth's people. I have met so many people who are socially active and who fight diligently to make our community and our world a better place. I have learned that every person has valuable gifts to share, regardless of age, sex, race or other considerations.

A place to feel comfortable that allows me to worship and explore my spiritual growth; friends who I probably would never have met. — Gloria Sturghill

Plymouth has given me a beautiful home for worship and opportunities to do what I wished to do to maintain this home. Plymouth has also has given me a way to engage my connections to the larger community. It has provided a meeting place, a facility for auditioning minority students for Interlochen Summer Arts Camp, space for concerts and dramatic productions as special tributes to African American artists and historic figures.

Untold moments of inspiration at the goodness of others, spiritual and intellectual stimulation and challenge from the pulpit and the congregation, comfort and peace, support for my efforts.  —  Age 75

A community in which I feel comfortable raising my daughter. Great music. Inspiring and thought-provoking sermons.

Too many gifts to count: spiritual life, direction, support, comfort, fellowship.

Love, support, a ChristCare group that have become close friends, strength and guidance from clergy,  Allowing me to give something back to others. — Paul Qua

Peace of mind, Piece of community, Acceptance.

I was married in Plymouth Church. All my children were baptized here and joined Plymouth. Three of my children were married in Plymouth Church. More recently, and more poignantly, Plymouth was a enormous support when my husband was killed; from the outreach of the staff and friends, to the memorial service and the reception afterwards. Plymouth friends still support me.   — Marcia Christian

The joy to worship God.  — Wyatt Sweeney (age 9)

Plymouth has taken care of me with meals, prayers and pastoral care.  When I have been sick or mourning, Plymouth gives me a place where I can be myself, the self God  created, and be loved for that.  It is a place where I can reach out to others and walk with them on their journey, as they walk with me.  — Jeannie Clarkson

The strength that is in faith and prayer.  When you live in a retirement home, it is like a different world.  People don’t talk below the surface — just “hello, how are you, that’s a pretty sweater” — I miss the communication at Plymouth.