Stewardship

Its responsibilities are to:

• provide an overview of the Stewardship level of the congregation, in order to realize financial potential individually, and collectively as a congregation, and to recommend to the Council of Elders the proportion of givings to local, M&S, and Capital Projects

• plan and carry out regular stewardship visitation and stewardship education programs

• encourage the use of envelope giving on a systematic basis

• prepare a proposed annual budget by the June meeting of the Council of Elders in consultation with other committees

• encourage continued support for the life and work of the congregation through wills, bequests, gifts and memorials, and by promoting the Endowment Fund and other fund

• determine the direction of the congregation by establishing long-range and short-range goals and objectives

Over the years, the Stewardship Committee has spent considerable time and energy focused on the annual Stewardship campaign and the finances of the congregation. This year is no exception. The congregation approved a deficit budget for 2002, the first in many years. We put this budget forward with faith that we would come together as a congregation, and with the belief that it would not be prudent, during an International Interim period to cut the programs in order to save money. With an end of the year appeal to the congregation and careful control of expense we will escape the year with a manageable deficit.

This year, we continue to shift our focus to the general well being of the congregation. We understand that a healthy and happy congregation gives from the heart. These gifts are not only financial, but are also manifested in dedication to programs and acts of outreach. We have moved away from the traditional cycle at AUC of an all-member visitation every second year. Instead, we have contacted every member of the congregation for the last two years by letter and telephone, as well as through general information sessions.

This process has allowed us to communicate directly with every household, and to update our records. The overwhelming response to the work of the church is positive and encouraging.

What gifts do our members contribute?

TIME

• Being active in a caring congregation

• Committee Work

• Teaching Sunday School

• Assisting in Events

• Visiting Shut-ins and the elderly

COMMITMENT

• Participating in events

• Sunday Worship

• Attending Chuch Meetings

• Providing Fellowship

PARTICIPATION

• Welcoming current and new members - wear a name button

• Singing in the choir

• Involvement in the church community

SUPPORT

• Weekly contributions

• Pre-authorized remittance

• Sunday School Giving

• Supporting major events such as the Fall Event or Rummage Sales

What is the right amount to give?

This question runs through the minds of many members as they plan to declare their intention to give. It is a personal decision that requires some careful thought and discussion among family members. The church provides so many valuable services on Sunday and Beyond. Does your gift reflect your grateful and generous heart?

What is the Church Budget?

The budget provided by the contributions of nearly 500 active member families. The last few years have seen some real cost-cutting. We've also faced some unavoidable increased in the basic costs of operating a facility that has a growing role in the community. 

Main items of the budget:

86% - Worship and Outreach Programs including 21% to Mission and Service

14% - Admin, utilities and maintenance.