A memorial service will take place this weekend for a Disciple whose work led to the creation of the Christian Church Foundation (CCF). Spencer P. Austin, who died in April at the age of 100, will be honored on Sept. 11 at 11 a.m. during a gathering at Downey Avenue Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Indianapolis. A leader in evangelism and church finances, Spencer was in charge of Unified Promotion – one of the forerunners of Disciples Mission Fund. He and other church leaders created the impetus for the Christian Church to have its own foundation to support ministry through permanent funds.
Austin supported a number of church-related causes during his lifetime. In lieu of flowers, it is asked that donations in his name go to the Spencer P. Austin Century Fund for Week of Compassion.
"It is hard to imagine how there would be a Week of Compassion without Spencer Austin," commented Amy Gopp, executive director of Week of Compassion. "His concern for the needs of the world, his ecumenical vision, his deep understanding of stewardship and his steadfast love and commitment to the Disciples gave and still gives life and energy to WoC."
Donations for WoC in memory of Austin should be made in care of the Christian Church Foundation, P.O. Box 1986, Indianapolis, Ind. 46206-1986. To read more about Austin’s life, go to: www.disciples.org/ccf
