FAQS

How much should I give?

In the Bible and throughout the history of the Christian Church, there is a strong tradition of the people of God responding to the gifts that God has given them by giving financial gifts that require significant sacrifice. Sometimes, a tithe (10% of our income) is lifted up as the marker of significant giving. However, most of the Bible avoids this kind of one-size-fits-all prescription for giving. In fact, most of the Biblical examples of faithful giving far exceed the 10% mark. Ten percent, however is a helpful marker. Some can give much more than 10% while some may have a season when they need to give less. Our decisions about giving should grow out of our relationship with God. Must of us have ample financial resources to meet our basic needs. Most of us can give at least 10 percent of our earnings to the church without ever being in danger of not meeting our basic needs of food, clothing, and shelter. But, we may need to make major sacrifices to give at least ten percent of our earnings to the church.

What do I do if I’m uncertain about my income for the coming year or I do not expect to make equal payments on my pledge each month?

We recognize that some persons have income that varies greatly from year to year or from month to month. When faced with this situation, some respond by basing their giving on a very conservative estimate of their income. They prefer to notify the church that they will be giving more than they pledged rather than notify the church about the need to lower their pledge. We certainly respect these feelings and this way of approaching a pledge.

However, you probably serve your church best by including more detailed information with your pledge. For example, “My salary varies greatly depending on the economy. I expect to have income to support a pledge of at least $150 per week. I would like this amount entered as my official pledge. However, my best estimate is that I will have income to support a $300 per week pledge. I will send a quarterly note to the church financial office updating this information.”

The church Finance Committee must also deal with cash flow issues, because some persons do not make equal payments toward their pledge each month. The expenses of the church can also vary significantly from month to month. For example, our utility bills rise in the summer at the same time that pledge payments often are less consistent.

Some persons receive a large portion of their income in quarterly or annual commission payments. If you expect to make unequal payments, it is helpful to include this information with your pledge. For example, “My family is pledging $9,000 for the year. We expect the payment schedule to be $400 per month for January through November. At the end of the year, we will make a payment of $4200.”

Imagine that you are a member of the church Finance Committee. This kind of information enhances your ability to make prudent financial decisions!

Is my pledge confidential?

Yes. Access is only granted to persons who must have this information. Currently, the only person that accesses this information is our Office Administrator, Jane Joyner and our two pastors. Information about pledges is provided to the Finance and Stewardship Committee without including personal information.

Where does the money go?

For information about the Annual Church Budget click here.