Giving FAQ

What is my offering used for? Weekly offerings are used for the church’s total ministry in the community and world. These include operating expenses (mortgage, electricity, phones, building maintenance, etc.), ministry area expenses (Sunday school, adult education, youth, etc), worship expenses (music, supplies, equipment, etc.), staff salaries, and office expenses (paper, postage, supplies, etc.) unless the donation is designated for a specific use.

Can I designate an offering for something in particular? Yes, gifts can be designated for specific use by writing the use on the memo line of your check or giving specific instructions in writing to the treasurer or one of the pastors.

Are my donations tax-deductible? Yes, unless goods (such as flowers) or services (such as weddings) are received by the donor.

What structures are in place to ensure the church’s financial responsibility and transparency? A Finance Committee is elected annually by the Charge Conference. The committee compiles an annual budget which is submitted to the Church Council for approval. With the help of a group of counters, the Financial Secretary is responsible for counting and promptly depositing donations, and maintaining accurate donor records. The Treasurer disburses payments for expenses as named in the church budget, and prepares monthly financial statements which are submitted to the Church Council.

What is a pledge? Each Fall, we ask our members and regular attenders to make a pledge of their giving for the upcoming year. These are useful to the finance committee when establishing the church budget.  Because your pledge is an estimate you can adjust it at any time as your financial circumstances change.What People Say