Financial stewardship is a key element of my spiritual journey. Together with the giving of time and energy, and with the deliberate, discerned choices about purchasing and consumption (a daily struggle!), giving financial resources to the Church and to key non-profit organizations allows the Golding ‘ohana (family) to give back a considered portion of that which has been given us.
My grandfather, Len, was a significant source of inspiration in this regard. Like many born in the 1920s and 30s, Len made use of little in a gentle, intentional manner. This was done in such a no-fuss, humble way (through ministry with Salvation Army, the local community, and with my mother and other family members) that stewardship and “giving” took on a heartfelt meaning early in my life-journey.
Below are a sample of organizations that our family budget contributes to. By God’s grace, may we have a fraction of Len’s generosity and thankfulness.
Local, National, and Global Church Organizations
Our family contributes pledge a certain dollar amount each year to multiple church organizations that continue to nurture us and the world. Here are the main four:
- Kihei Lutheran Church, Maui: our “home/local” church. The Episcopal Church is Full Communion Partners with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) of which Kihei Lutheran is a part.
- The Cathedral of St. Andrew, Honolulu: the “mother” church of the Episcopal Church in Hawai’i, Guam, and Saipan. I am a member of the Cathedral Chapter.
- The National Cathedral, Washington, D.C.: a place of pilgrimage and in-person and online worship that has sustained us over the years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem (via the American Friends of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem) which supports worship, education, and healthcare in Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Israel.
The Southern Poverty Law Center
“The Southern Poverty Law Center is dedicated to fighting hate and bigotry and to seeking justice for the most vulnerable members of our society. Using litigation, education, and other forms of advocacy, the SPLC works toward the day when the ideals of equal justice and equal opportunity will be a reality.” (From the SPLC website)
Kiva crowdfunds loans, unlocking “capital for the underserved, improving the quality and cost of financial services, and addressing the underlying barriers to financial access around the world. Through Kiva’s work, students can pay for tuition, women can start businesses, farmers are able to invest in equipment and families can afford needed emergency care. By lending as little as $25 on Kiva, you can be part of the solution and make a real difference in someone’s life. 100% of every dollar you lend on Kiva goes to funding loans.” (From the Kiva website)
Vegan Priest, Christopher Golding 