THE BOX, BASKET and LIST

This past fall, worship at First Congregational Church began a fresh approach to the Offering—one that widens our understanding of what it means to give back to God. The Worship Committee, inspired by practices in other congregations previously served by Pastor Eric, recently proposed the change, and the Church Board gave its enthusiastic approval.

Instead of passing the plate during worship, the new model—called The Box, Basket, and List—will be introduced at the close of each service before the Benediction. The goal is simple yet profound: to recognize that what we offer to God is not limited to dollars and cents, but also includes our time, talents, and tangible gifts.

The Box

The Box represents our offering of material possessions. Each month, members are invited to contribute specific items —food, toiletries, school supplies, warm clothing—that will be distributed to neighbors in need. In other churches that have tried this approach, The Box quickly became a symbol of joy and generosity, with congregations inspired by watching it fill week after week. The Box is located just before the sanctuary doors.

The Basket

At each exit of the sanctuary, worshippers will notice The Basket. Here, financial gifts are received to sustain and expand the ministries of FCC, both now and into the future. This replaces the passing of plates during the service. Early feedback from other churches shows that many people find worship to be more seamless and spiritually focused without the interruption of a monetary appeal. Those who give online especially appreciate that they no longer feel self-conscious when the plate passes by.

The List

Finally, at the church lobby entrance, The List will be available at a staffed table each Sunday. Here, members and visitors alike may explore opportunities to share time and talent—whether by volunteering, joining small groups, signing up for upcoming classes, or connecting with ministries that align with their passions. The table will also function as a welcome station for newcomers, offering a friendly face, orientation to church life, and a free gift: a bookmark with church information and Pastor Eric’s benediction prayer. At the same time, visitors may indicate if they would like to receive mailings, meet with a pastor, or request prayer.

A Holistic Vision of Stewardship

The Box, Basket, and List remind us that our response to God’s generosity cannot be measured in financial terms alone. Instead, stewardship becomes a holistic act of discipleship—encompassing our possessions, resources, and personal engagement. The heart of this new practice lies in its invitation: to give our lives away in response to the One who gives life to us. And in the process, to rediscover the joy of offering ourselves—heart, mind, hands, and resources—for the flourishing of God’s world.