5 September 2025
National Generosity Week takes place in the Harvest season, so that as we thank God for his generosity to us, we also have the opportunity to think about how we might respond to that generosity.
This year, Generosity Week is running from 28 September to 5 October , but the flexible resources available allow churches to run a Generosity Week at any time of year. Planning for two consecutive Sundays gives the opportunity to explore gratitude one week, and to consider generosity the next.
During July, Revd Alexandra Podd used the resources to lead two services at St Paul’s, Woodford Bridge. This was a response to their PCC’s listening and vision process, giving them a goal to increase giving within their congregation to enable them to resource the sharing of God’s love in their community over the next 18 months.
Revd Alexandra said:
“I knew when I heard the PCC talk about outreach, welcome and children and young people that we would value more resource to meet their ambition. Honestly, I was nervous to talk money, and was grateful to find the generosity week resources and to contact the diocesan Parish Giving Advisors. But, despite my nerves and small imagination, God is awesome! I have been delighted by the way that talking about giving has released people to be deeper in their faith. “One person has shared that ‘the sermons on giving made me think more deeply about what God is doing in my life’. We have seen an uptick in giving, which will hopefully reach our 15% target, but the depth of discipleship is the real blessing.” This year’s resources have been extended to include content from the Cheeky Pandas to involve our younger church members. The ‘Godly Generosity’ series looks at how children can use their time, talents, and treasure to grow the kingdom of God here on earth.
Visit the Church of England website for Generosity Week resources or contact our Parish Giving Advisors for more information.
This article has been taken from the latest edition of WePray, our quarterly prayer diary which brings together our Cycle of Prayer and stories from across our Diocese.