Legacy isn’t a single river flowing in one direction — it’s made of countless tributaries, each carrying stories, sacrifices, and hopes from those who came before us. Our faith community is where those streams meet — a confluence of generations, experiences, and dreams that together form something larger and more life-giving than any one source alone.

Each generation brings its own tributary — the wisdom of elders, the energy of youth, the steady current of those in between. When we honor and connect these streams, the river widens. Our shared legacy becomes a place where all can drink, grow, and find belonging.

As we look back with gratitude and forward with hope, may we see ourselves not as isolated springs, but as tributaries — joining together in God’s unfolding river of love, mercy, and renewal.

LaVelle: After my husband died last year, I knew I needed to return to a physical presence in my church home at Morningside UMC. I told my friends I needed to get back to my tribe. Part of that is giving of my resources to support the ministries and values of this congregation in its openness and in seeking equality for all.

Sierra: I give my time and resources to Morningside because it’s always given back to me. Each time I return to Morningside I am reminded how many good people I am still surrounded by in this world. It fills my cup a little more each time and reminds me to keep seeing the good in the world around me.

Sara: Morningside has been my faith community and “home” since December 1979. All are welcome isn’t just a phrase, but a vital part of who we are. Keeping our Coffee Hour going is one way I can extend that hospitality.

Nick: This community keeps me grounded and connected to other people trying make sense of the world and do good things. It is a rare place where I feel completely comfortable as myself which has given me the courage to grow my inner self and flourish everywhere.

Why I Give...

Our giving changes the world. It also changes us. It slowly creates a total way of life in which we realize that everything we have is from God, that we have been gifted and are therefore called to pass on the gift to someone else: to use our resources wisely and generously.

What’s a pledge?

A pledge is a commitment to give a certain amount of money to the church in 2026. Everyone is invited to fill out the enclosed pledge card to turn in before or on Sunday, November 23. You can also fill out a pledge card online right here.

Why are pledges helpful in a church?

Our budget for ministry, staff, facilities and mission is funded by the generosity of the people in this faith community. Pledge cards enable us to responsibly plan for 2026. We want to be great stewards of the gifts given so your card helps us do that.

How much should I pledge?

Take time to pray and think about it. We encourage giving a deliberately-chosen percentage of gross income. Some follow the biblical invitation to set a tithe (the Biblical word for 10% of our income) as the giving goal in our lives. Start where you can and begin the journey for you. Some fully tithe or give more than a tithe; others take an incremental approach - increasing their gift by 1%, 2%, or 3% per year - to gradually move toward 10%. Others find themselves In a season where that’s not sustainable. We truly believe God honors all kinds of giving.

Next Steps

Set up an automatic recurring gift with your bank account, credit or debit card

Place cash or check in offering plate after Sunday worship (weekly or monthly)

Give online with credit card at morningsideumc.org

What if my financial circumstances change? 
If you need to change your commitment at any time, just let us know. Simply contact our Treasurer, Sally Neff at saneffosu@comcast.net.