Why We Give

Giving has always been a response to what God has already done, not a fee for belonging. One of the earliest pictures of this is found in Genesis, when Abraham returned from battle and freely gave an offering to Melchizedek, the king of Salem, who was also “the priest of the Most High God” (Genesis 14:18–20). Abraham’s gift was not demanded, negotiated, or coerced—it flowed naturally from gratitude, worship, and recognition of God’s hand in his life.

Throughout Scripture, God’s people consistently supported the work of ministry in this same spirit. The Levites were sustained so they could devote themselves fully to the service of the Lord (Numbers 18:21). Jesus Himself was supported in His earthly ministry by those who believed in the work He was doing (Luke 8:1–3). The apostle Paul affirmed that “those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel” (1 Corinthians 9:13–14), while also reminding the Church that giving is meant to be willing, thoughtful, and joyful—not burdensome or forced (2 Corinthians 9:6–7).

At Christian Life Church & Academy, we give because we believe in what God is doing here—through worship, teaching, discipleship, outreach, and education. Your generosity helps sustain ministry, care for people, and extend the message of Christ beyond our walls. Giving is not about obligation; it is an act of trust, worship, and partnership in the work God is doing among us and through us.

How the Gifts Are Used

We believe generosity should be met with clarity and trust. As a church and school operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, all gifts are handled with care and used in accordance with both biblical stewardship and the legal guidelines that govern charitable organizations. This means every donation is applied to the purpose for which it is given and used to support the mission of Christian Life Church & Academy.

General gifts support the ongoing, day-to-day work of ministry. These funds help keep the doors open and the ministry functioning faithfully—covering essentials such as utilities, general operating expenses, building maintenance, ministry resources, and the practical needs required to serve our congregation, students, and community.

Designated gifts are applied specifically to the purpose named by the giver. When a gift is given for a particular project or improvement, it is used solely for that purpose, in keeping with nonprofit best practices and donor intent. Current designated needs include:

  • Upgrading the HVAC systems in both the church and the school

  • Replacing the church accessibility ramp

  • Replacing the back door at the church

  • Installing an indoor baptistry

We understand that giving is an act of trust. For that reason, we are committed to transparency, accountability, and faithful stewardship in how every gift is received and used.

A gentle word: There is no pressure or expectation for anyone to give. Giving is voluntary, prayerful, and personal. Whether you give much, little, or not at all, you are welcome here. Our desire is simply to provide an opportunity for those who wish to partner with what God is doing through this ministry.

Ways to Give

If you choose to give, we want the process to be simple, clear, and respectful. There is no single “right” way to give—only the way that is most comfortable and meaningful for you.

The preferred and most direct way to give is in person at the church or school. This allows giving to remain personal, relational, and fully connected to the life of the ministry.

For those who prefer to give by mail, checks or money orders may be sent to:

Christian Life Church & Academy
129 South Highland Avenue
Creve Coeur, Illinois 61610

If giving digitally is more convenient, donations may also be sent through Venmo at:

@clccrevecoeur

However you choose to give, please know that every gift—large or small—is received with gratitude and handled with care. Giving is never about pressure or obligation, but about freely partnering in the work God is doing through this ministry.