by Myrna Wells-Ulland
It’s Thankoffering season and our Thankoffering to Women of the ELCA is one of the traditions that occurs during this season of giving thanks. When we make a Thankoffering, we are reminded of the blessings we have received and respond with a gift, a “Thankoffering.” This tradition began more than a century ago by the foremothers of our faith, and we continue it today. Our Thankofferings go to “where needed most” when received by your churchwide organization, giving us the flexibility needed to respond where and when needed.
Speaking of traditions, some of my friends brine a turkey for Thanksgiving. Wait, I think brining requires salt and turkey brine without salt could result in an epic failure at the Thanksgiving dinner table. Today, I want to encourage you to “salt” your Thankoffering to Women of the ELCA! We have been sharing videos, memes, Facebook posts and communications about the S.A.L.T. Appeal since August. Offerings are down and S.A.L.T is the acronym to help our churchwide organization meet its budget by the end of January 2026. You are part of that organization, this beloved community of Women of the ELCA. S.A.L.T. stands for sharing abundance, love and thanks, and that seems to fit nicely in this season of Thanksgiving.
In the second chapter of Leviticus, the Israelites are being given instructions about offerings and how those offerings can be pleasing to God. And in verse 13b, they are instructed to “add salt to all their offerings.” So, this Thankoffering season, you’re invited to “salt” your Thankoffering gift! What does this look like? Add a little extra. And while you’re add it, consider “salting” every future offering you make to the ministries and programs of Women of the ELCA. This can be at your congregation level, to your synod women’s organization, and certainly to your churchwide organization. I believe what we give blesses others. May the tradition of “salting” your offerings to Women of the ELCA become a new tradition for you! Thanksgiving blessings to you!
Myrna Wells-Ulland, of Phoenix, Az., serves as the Churchwide Executive Board President of Women of the ELCA.
Download the 2025 Thankoffering Service