Thursday, December 7, 2006

Rendering Unto Caesar


“The Episcopal Church of Our Savior at Honey Creek” is a mouthful, and by the time I finish saying the title, the person to whom I am speaking might have forgotten the first part. So, I have been referring to the new church as “Our Savior Honey Creek.” Sometimes I simply say “Our Savior” when differentiating between this and other churches.

Some of what I am doing as a church planter turns out to be humorous. For example, this week we were setting up bank accounts for the church. The banker asked us for a Federal Tax Identification Number. I had no idea Our Savior even needed one. Someone in the know showed me how to apply for one over the internet, and a few hours later “Our Savior” had its own Tax ID Number. This was also helpful in setting up a new phone line.

It’s amazing what a Tax ID Number can do for a church. Since we applied for the Tax ID Number as a non-profit organization, we can receive financial gifts which the donor can claim as an income tax deduction. If taxes are an annoyance to you, remember that even our Savior Jesus Christ paid taxes. He is the one who said, “Render to Caesar that which is Caesar’s, and to God that which is God’s.” Our Savior did not need a Tax ID Number then, but he has one now.

This is the time of year that many people begin to assess their tax burden and make gifts to charitable causes. If you are interested in becoming a part of this exciting new venture, we welcome your donations. Giving to Our Savior could even diminish that which you will have to render to the U. S. Government come April 15, 2007.

Please make checks payable to:


The Episcopal Church of Our Savior at Honey Creek
P. O. Box 326
Waverly, GA 31565

Just remember - “Our Savior” has a Tax ID Number.

Pastor Linda
The Rev. Linda McCloud
Pastor
The Episcopal Church of Our Savior at Honey Creek
www.oursaviorhoneycreek.org

2 comments:

Ned Netterville said...

I want to invite you to visit the website http://www.jesus-on-taxes.com, where you can download a copy of the essay, JESUS OF NAZARETH, ILLEGAL-TAX PROTESTER. It is the first and only comprrehensive analysis of everything Jesus said and did viz-a-viz taxes and tax collectors. And, because Jesus was a Scripture scholar and adherent, it analyzes most everything the Bible has to say on the subjects. It may change your thinking on the meaning of Jesus' words "rendeer unto Caesar," Sincerely, Ned Netterville

Don Callaway said...

Pastor Linda,
We have enjoyed getting to know you in Moultrie through the 5th Sunday evening services at the various churches. We will miss you, but pray God's blessings on your new mission.
Blessings and Peace,
Don and Jo Ann Callaway