Temple Talk - Kerri McClimen
Hi. I’m Kerri McClimen and I’ve been a member for over 23 years. I’ve been asked to speak about Stewardship, which basically (or simply) means “giving”. I’ve made bread as part of my giving to Ebenezer - for over two decades. I bake bread. I baked bread for the service today. I don’t know about you, but fresh bread is a big draw for me – after homemade communion bread, who really wants to go back to those wafers?!
To be honest with you, over those 20 years, a lot of people have helped me make the bread – when I was busy or tired or hosting guests! Sometimes my late husband made the bread, so did my mother-in-law, my mom, my son and probably even my babysitter. And, sometimes, someone, including my neighbor Judy Bianchi, or Jen Debner might have brought it to church on Sunday when I couldn’t come because of a kid’s sports conflict or something else. The point is – baking bread kept me connected and relatively consistent as a member of this church. I also tithe with Simply Giving. It too keeps me connected and consistent as a member. And, goodness knows you don’t want to rely on the consistency of my giving by how often I come to church. So, I am relieved to have Simply Giving to know that I’m helping by more than just baking bread.
It is the least I can do because the truth is, Ebenezer has always given to me. I made a quick list of examples:
Sunday school for my children
Summer Bible Camp
St. Lucia Day Buns
Cooking pizza in the kitchen with Barbara & Joe
Mardi Gras king cakes and jazz that included a talent show –
music (John E./kids’ trumpets)
The chili cook-offs
The after-school programs, the play groups, the pride parades
Book club – amazing, smart and talented women
First Slice prep - Did you know that First Slice started in the basement of our church indoor winter farmers market (met so many people in the community) – and cleaning with Kristin Clemenz and getting SO much help from others! – with my partner in crime – the social justice warrior, Pam Sall.
Both of my children were confirmed at Ebenezer
And, sadly, Ebenezer held the funeral for my husband.
My point is – the church and the lovely members, have given me so much more than I have given. I want to stay connected and I want to give back because this church, the members and pastor Michael have always been here for me.
I give because I believe in what this church stands for and what it does. The social justice, the commitment to peace. The bravery to take bold stands. Ebenezer has done all that and so much more. It is a safe and welcoming place for all.
So, thank you for listening to me today. And, please enjoy the bread during communion … hopefully I didn’t overcook it (it is much better undercooked)!