Support Congregation Shema Yisrael

Congregation Shema Yisrael

Cheerful Giving

In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul, quoting from Proverbs 22:8 (Septuagint) says in part, "God loves a cheerful giver". While many faith communities attempt to demonstrate the Biblical basis for donating to the congregation by citing the commandments to support the building of the Mishkan or the support of the Levitical priesthood, those examples don't really hit the mark. The commandments for building the Mishkan and later the Temple, and the support of the Kohens are very specific to those situations and people, and don't transfer easily to the modern church or Messianic community. They don't have to. There are a number of solid examples in the Apostolic scriptures demonstrating the need for each person to support their faith community and the general body of believers.

All the many believers were one in heart and soul, and no one claimed any of his possessions for himself, but everyone shared everything he had. With great power, the emissaries continued testifying to the resurrection of the Lord Yeshua, and they were all held in high regard. No one among them was poor, since those who owned lands or houses sold them and turned over the proceeds to the emissaries to distribute to each according to his need. Thus Yosef, whom the emissaries called Bar-Nabba (which means "the Exhorter"), a Levi and a native of Cyprus, sold a field which belonged to him and brought the money to the emissaries.
-Acts 4:32-37

But now I am going to Jerusalem with aid for God's people there. For Macedonia and Achaia thought it would be good to make some contribution to the poor among God's people in Jerusalem. They were pleased to do it, but the fact is that they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared with the Jews in spiritual matters, then the Gentiles clearly have a duty to help the Jews in material matters.
-Romans 15:25-27

Now in regard to the collection being made for God's people; you are to do the same as I directed the congregations in Galatia to do. Every week at Motza'ei-Shabbat (the end of Shabbat), each of you should set some money aside, according to his resources, and save it up, so that when I come, I won't have to do fundraising. And when I arrive, I will give letters of introduction to the people you have approved, and I will send them to carry your gift to Yerushalayim.
-1 Corinthians 16:1-3

Our congregation is 100% supported by donations. We don't receive any support whatsoever from any other organization or affiliated group. While we seek to be good and frugal stewards of our resources, we still need to pay the rent and the utilities. To reach out to our community and to serve others in any way requires funds. We humbly ask that you pray and donate what He guides you to give for the support of the Messianic people in this community. Help us continue to be able to provide a place for Jews and Gentiles to worship Messiah Yeshua and to maintain a Messianic presence in the Treasure Valley. You can mail your donations to the following address. If you have any questions, please contact us either by phone or email.

Congregation Shema Yisrael is a 501(c)(3) corporation and your contributions are fully tax-deductible.