We greet you in this season when Christians proclaim the joy of Easter. Spring is a time when many faiths mark holy days and observe special traditions, a time when many of us are reminded that we are truly blessed.

Recently you received a letter from the Internal Revenue Service, with the heading, "Economic Stimulus Payment Notice." It stated that individuals who qualify may receive as much as $600 ($1,200 if married filing jointly) in our government's effort to stave off an economic downturn. The coming payment is intended to boost the economy with extra spending that will follow. Whether or not you agree with this strategy, it appears the money will be on its way some time in late spring or early summer.

Recently, members of one of our congregations presented their pastor with an idea. What if a large number of people in our community decided to share a portion of this extra, unplanned "bonus" with neighbors? What if, for instance, households from all over West Seattle used the Biblical standard of 10 percent and gave $60 or $120 to local charities to help ease some of the financial pain so many are feeling. Food banks have been stretched, emergency funding sources are tapped out, and shelters are facing budget cuts. A thousand individuals giving at least 10 percent would provide $60,000. Why not several thousand people? Why not more?

We are the spiritual leaders of a number of Christian congregations in the West Seattle/White Center/Burien area. While we encourage folks to give any amount to whatever organizations they might choose, we are inviting members of our congregations to contribute to a special "Sharing our Share" (S.O.S.) fund. It will be collected at each of our local churches and 100 percent will be divided equally among the West Seattle, West Seattle Senior Center and White Center Food Banks, along with the West Seattle Helpline, Westside Baby, and a new community based, emergency shelter program, "Family Promise".

We invite anyone in the community or beyond to join us in this effort by contributing to the Sharing our Share, S.O.S. fund, care of any of the congregations listed below. Your gift is, of course, tax deductible. Again, we encourage a contribution of 10 percent or more with the assurance that every penny will go to these community based organizations. Together, we will not only help stimulate the economy, but help make an important difference in the lives of our neighbors and friends who are facing difficult times. What a great opportunity!

Terry Teigen and Kendall Baker

Admiral United Church of Christ

Diane Darling

Alki United Church of Christ

Paul Winterstein

Calvary Lutheran Church

David Kratz and

Susan Towner-Larsen

Fauntleroy United Church of Christ

Philip Lee

Glendale Lutheran Church

Keith Eilers

Hope Lutheran Church

Erik Kindem

Peace Lutheran Church

Peter DeVeau and Kate Wesch

St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church

Joanne Brown

Tibbetts United Methodist Church