Mission Support

Mission Support is the lifeblood that keeps the Synod vital and engaging. The East Central Synod of Wisconsin relies on Mission Support from our congregations to fund our programming, be able to walk with congregations in transition, develop staff, and be connected with the ELCA Churchwide organization.

Documents For Congregations

Where does mission support go in the East Central Synod of Wisconsin?

Mission Support is used to fund the ministries and operation of the East Central Synod of Wisconsin, as well as a host of ministries we in the ELCA rely on to support our Congregations.

ELCA Churchwide – In 2024, 46% of every dollar given to the East Central Synod of Wisconsin is shared with the ELCA Churchwide organization. This helps fund the work of the Presiding Bishop, the ministries of the ELCA, such as Young Adults in Global Mission

Seminaries β€“ 5% of mission support dollars are used help benefit our ELCA Seminaries. Keeping our seminaries properly funded helps keeps tuition costs down and break down barriers for students to pursue a call to ministry. 

Youth Ministries β€“ Did your child attend a Junior or Senior youth gathering over the years? It was sponsored by Mission Support! Youth programming is vital to keeping youth engaged in their local congregations and networking with youth from around the Synod. 

Crossways Camping Ministries – Our Synod is blessed with the beautiful facilities provided by Crossways. In supporting their ministries we give youth in the synod an opportunity to have a positive experience at camp

Lay School – Congregations rely on the participation of lay school students to keep their ministries strong. Supporting the Central Lay school is fundamental to developing an engaged and educated membership that can train and equip their congregations.

How can you support the work of the Synod and the larger Church?

  1. Talk to your congregational leaders and make sure your congregation is invested in the work of the Synod and the larger Church. The infographic from the ELCA, β€œWhere does my offering go?” is helpful to share.

  2. Talk about the importance of Mission Support at your next Congregational Annual Meeting! Informing fellow parishioners where the Mission Support dollars go is a great way making sure your congregation sees the impact.

  3. Make a Giving plan! It is not just Congregations that can give mission support. Consider adding the East Central Synod of Wisconsin to your offering plan. Your support will benefit your congregation, the ELCA Churchwide organization, and a host of ministries vital to the Church.

How does mission support work?

  1. Congregation send mission support dollars to the East Central Synod of Wisconsin.

  2. The money funds the mission of the East Central Synod of Wisconsin in accompanying and serving its congregations. It also helps fund programs like Seminary scholarships, raising leaders, Youth Events, and many more!

  3. 48 Cents of every dollar received by the Synod is shared with the ELCA Churchwide organization. That money is then used to fund the mission of the ELCA and other programs such as the ELCA Fund for Leaders, Young Adults in Global Mission, ELCA Global Barnyard, and much much more!

  4. These programs and tools serve to accompany congregations and live out the love of Christ in our local communities, states, country, and world.

  5. We are church together.

Visual Resources to Share

Infographic Handout - Where does my offering go?

YouTube Video - Where does my offering go?

2024 Narrative Budget for the East Central Synod of Wisconsin with pie charts, budget needs, reporting.