Our Gifts to the Lord: Stewardship of Our Gifts in Synod

Abstract

Harold E. Wicke’s address, Our Gifts to the Lord (Stewardship of Our Gifts in Synod), delivered at the Western Wisconsin District Convention in 1964, explores the stewardship of financial resources within the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). Wicke emphasizes that money is secondary to the Gospel, yet essential for advancing Christ’s kingdom. He reviews administrative expenses, the role of executive secretaries, and the synodical budget process, stressing accountability and Gospel-centered priorities. Major budget areas include worker training (44%), home missions (27.5%), world missions (14.3%), and benevolences (6%). Wicke highlights the growing need for pastors and teachers, the expansion of home missions, and strategic approaches to foreign missions, including indigenous leadership development. He urges congregations to increase sacrificial giving and maintain transparency, assuring that funds are used to further Gospel work. The essay concludes with practical suggestions for promoting stewardship and inspiring future workers for the church. Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT‑4).