FAQ: Stewardship
Commonly Asked Questions Regarding StewardshipLet me take this opportunity to welcome you to the parish family of St. James Episcopal Church. While St. James has their formal Stewardship Campaign in the fall of each year, we would invite you to name St. James as your spiritual home and become vested in our parish whenever you feel most comfortable. Below you will find answers to some commonly asked Stewardship questions. Please feel free to let me know if you have any questions or need any assistance in this matter.
Marilyn King
2007 Stewardship Chairperson
Why are annual pledges important for the church?
Annual pledges, along with fundraising and gifts, support all that we do and all that we are here at St. James Church. Our yearly budget is driven by the generosity of our parishioners through their annual pledges and gifts. The Annual Stewardship Campaign gives the Finance Committee and Vestry insight into the amount of financial support that can be expected from its parishioners for the coming year; thus setting the cornerstone for the annual budget.
Why is pledging important to me?
Pledging your financial support to St. James allows you to do your part in ensuring that all that we have here at St. James will continue to thrive and grow in the year ahead. It also allows you to join the ranks of the many vested members that have sustained this parish community since 1784. “Our pledges are tangible expressions of our faith.”
Why should I pledge when I usually put money in the offering plate?
Loose funds collected each week do help to support the ongoing life of the parish. However, pledges are very important because they enable us to plan responsibly and to establish a parish operating budget for the coming year. For example, if you regularly put $10.00 a week into the plate, then you can pledge $520.00 annually and put your money in a weekly envelope. Even $1.00 a week, or $52.00 pledged annually, shows that you claim St. James as your spiritual home.
How does St. James spend the money received from the annual pledges?
This money supports all of the operating costs of our ministry programs and the numerous building expenses such as heat, water, and general upkeep; as well as maintaining the historic integrity of our building, which was completed in 1830. Staff and administration operations such as the Interim Rector/Rector, Organist/Choir Director, Parish Administrative Assistant, Sunday School Director, and Nursery Caregivers are also funded through our annual budget, as well as our support towards the Episcopal Diocese.
How much should I give with an annual pledge?
I have often heard it said that “our standard of giving should reflect our standard of living”. We ask that each parishioner consider giving a pledge that is both responsible and significant based on his or her own financial situation.
I’m not sure what I can afford this year. How can I pledge?
A pledge can be adjusted throughout the year if your circumstances change. We suggest that you pledge responsibly based on your best estimate of the year’s income.
What does it mean to give proportionately?
Proportional giving is based on the premise that the fruits are given back to God in grateful response to what God has given us. It refers to a conscious effort to determine an appropriate level of giving and asks that each parishioner consider making an annual pledge proportionate to their income.
Can my company match my gift?
Corporate matching gifts are welcome. Giving through the St. James Foundation makes it possible for companies that are unable to give to churches to help support St. James. If you have questions about matching gifts, please see our Treasurer.
When should I return my annual pledge card?
While we annually ask everyone who participates to make a pledge by Pledge Sunday- this past year October 8- either by bringing their pledge card to church, or by mailing it prior to this date, it is never too late. Pledging at that time is important because we use total pledge amounts to help establish our budget for the upcoming year. Nevertheless, pledges are welcome anytime throughout the year.
Do I have to pay when I pledge? Can I pay in installments?
Returning your pledge card is simply your intent to pay. You make your pledge and you fulfill your pledge in as many payments as you wish throughout the year 2007. The stewardship committee offers weekly pledge envelopes designed to help you with your payments. Please speak to our Stewardship Chairperson if you would like a pledge card or envelopes. Pledging can occur any time during the year.
