Practicing Faith: Where It Counts

Sharing the stories of how MPLC folks practice their faith

By Rita Lewis

I think that the world is made up of either “numbers people” or “language people”. I put myself in the latter category, so I find it a little surprising that I am a part of a team of counters at MPLC. Years ago I must have said, “I have a little extra time on my hands; is there a job that needs to be done?” I’m sure that I didn’t claim to be great at balancing my checkbook or anything, but here I am, a counter.

The job of a counter is to count and record the money that comes into our church from various sources; through the offering that our members put into the offering plates, contributions from visitors, Sunday School collections, coffee hour donations, tee shirt sales, special event fees or any other money that is received, making sure to record everything carefully and accurately. “Counters” work in teams of two and this work is done on a weekly basis. Mount Pleasant Lutheran Church has a well-designed accounts receivable system, clearly tracking money coming in to the various categories as well as crediting the appropriate sources.

In the early Monday morning light, when I walk up the ramp approaching the office area to do this task, I often pause and look at the beauty of our sanctuary. It’s so peaceful and serene and I feel very blessed to be standing there, surrounded by the quietness.

I like to say that I count at Mount Pleasant Lutheran Church. You count, too. In fact, we all do. But, I REALLY do. I’m a counter.

Besides serving as a counter with Karen Magee, Rita also is a member of the MPLC Book Club, the Prayer Shawl ministry, a volunteer at our monthly Open Table, and serves on the Staff Support Committee. Talk to Rita to find out more about any of these!