Funding a New Vision for a Growing and Evangelizing Church

Together in Mission is about growing Christ’s Church in our time and place. A new vision of collaboration and support within our synod that builds on our strengths and invests in emerging potential. A way of being the church together that will provide leaders and congregations exceptional opportunities for growth and development for years to come. A desire to deepen our relationships with one another and our commitment to work for justice and care for those in need.

Through the Together in Mission Appeal we will provide the dollars needed to launch this vision for our shared ministry within our synod and at the same time provide dollars and resources to support our brothers and sisters in the Lutheran Church of Haiti during this time of great need.

The Together in Mission Appeal invites the people and congregations of the Florida-Bahamas Synod to invest in this vision and become a part of the journey trusting that as we work for the growth and renewal of our life together God will change us as well!

Goals and Outcomes

Over the next three years we will raise significant financial resources to support two funding initiatives within the Together in Mission Appeal. The first will fund the mission and ministry goals of Together in Mission within our synod. The second will support the Lutheran Church in Haiti efforts to rebuild and grow after the devastating earthquake. Individual and congregational gifts can be designated as desired.

Our shared ministry within the Florida-Bahamas Synod

Investment: $2 million over the next three years

• Identify the best of our pastoral and lay leadership and target significant resources and support in helping them grow as transformational leaders in their settings
• Invest in what’s already working by aggressively supporting current congregational partnerships and collaborations that show great promise
• Provide expert coaching and training to those congregations across our synod who are committed to growing their capacity for new mission and outreach
• Expand the use of technology to bring us closer together and to more effectively tell the story of God’s life changing work
• Give strong support to the dreams of congregations who feel called to give birth to satellite ministries or second sites
• Target existing/emerging redevelopment partnerships with clear potential for success
• Our partnership with the Lutheran Church of Haiti

Investment: $500,000 over the next three years

• Provide needed support for the pastoral and key lay leadership of the Eglise Lutherienne d’ Haiti, the Lutheran Church of Haiti as they work to meet immediate and future needs
• Invest in church supported schools and educational programs including adult learning, literacy programs, and vocational training
• Support the continued need for ongoing theological training for clergy and lay leadership
• Direct resources to meet the pressing need for expansion in outreach ministries offered for women and children
• Fund the ongoing work of congregational and community development bringing the hope of Christ to the people of Haiti
• The Eglise Lutherienne d’ Haiti working closely with the Haiti Task Force of the Florida-Bahamas Synod will recommend where to direct the financial resources to have the greatest impact.

The success of Together in Mission will reframe how we work together for the sake of the Gospel. It models a clear and focused vision of collaboration and mutual support that will strengthen leaders, transform congregations and deepen our heart for outreach. It is a new, bold, and achievable dream that will change the way we walk together for years to come.

We are all invited and we are all needed. With God’s help we can achieve our goals and grow our common mission.

Together in Mission we can!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gifts to the Together in Mission appeal over and above ongoing Mission Support?

Yes, these are important new ministry initiatives that require gifts above and beyond our regular support of the Florida-Bahamas Synod.

Is this the right time to launch a major funding effort?

A new vision of collaboration and mutual support is needed now more than ever to grow Christ’s Church. In these challenging times we simply must provide our leaders and congregations with the tools and resources they need to expand their mission and ministry.

Can my giving to Together in Mission be designated?

Yes, individual and congregational gifts can be designated as desired to support Together in Mission’s work within the Florida-Bahamas Synod, our support of the Lutheran Church of Haiti or both. Undesignated gifts will be proportioned 80% for the work within our synod and 20% to support the work in Haiti.

What are some of the specific ways the money will be used?

Together in Mission will “build on our strengths and invest in emerging potential.” Examples include:

• Funding for new and creative ministries developed by congregations and conferences
• Targeting multi-cultural leadership development and outreach strategies
• Providing Coaches and Consultants
• Grants for congregations starting new congregations or second sites
• Grants to support lay leadership development
• Missional congregation grants to equip interns
• Gifts to assist congregations in redevelopment and transformation
• Professional grants for sabbaticals and immersion experiences

How will the funds be managed and how will leaders and congregations apply for and receive funds?

A Together in Mission Team composed of four lay and three rostered leaders will provide oversight. The Team will guide the raising of funds, develop a grant application and award process. They will also review progress, keep our synod informed, share stories and missional accomplishments.

Funds raised to support our partnership with the Lutheran Church of Haiti will be administered through the synod’s Haiti Fund and directed for greatest impact by the leadership of the Eglise Lutherienne d’ Haiti in consultation with the Haiti Task Force of the Florida-Bahamas Synod.

Who will be asked to contribute?

Both individuals along with each congregation in the Florida-Bahamas Synod will be invited to support this important effort.

How long is the giving period?

We are asking for a three-year pledge of financial support for Together in Mission, however, one-time gifts or giving over a shorter or longer time frame are welcomed and will have a great impact.

How will my congregation be contacted about getting involved?

Each congregation in our synod will receive materials to help share the story of Together in Mission with ideas and options for getting involved. An electronic newsletter will keep congregations connected and informed about our progress including new opportunities and resources that will be made possible through gifts received. Together in Mission leadership team members will be available to connect individually with congregations as well.

How can I make a pledge or gift?

There are three ways to make an individual pledge to Together in Mission:

Fill out and return a printed response card. Make a gift or pledge on-line by clicking the link on the Florida-Bahamas Synod website. Call the Together in Mission Administrator at the synod office 813-876-7660.

Can I make a gift of assets?

Absolutely, asset giving is a great way to support the goals of Together in Mission. For more information or to make a gift please contact the Together in Mission Administrator at the synod office.

What happens after three years?

With God’s help a new vision of collaboration and mutual support will be born within our synod. We trust that growth will lead to new dreams and hopes for our shared future. What might happen after three years? Anything’s possible - when we are Together in Mission!