I wanted to send you a note today to bring you up to date on the church's financial picture as 2011 comes to a close.
While attendance at Christmas Eve services was outstanding, and we saw many members and visitors in attendance, the offerings received were smaller than expected. To date, 2011 contributions are falling short of budget about $21,600. Our bookkeeper, Erica, is paying necessary bills and doing payroll for staff today, and it looks like the total deficit for the year''s end will be around $30,000. This will deplete our checking account and require a transfer from reserves to cover all our year-end expenses.
Frankly, this is a challenge faced by mostly all churches in the current economy - as people face uncertainty about the future their giving tends to decline. I imagine the vast majority of churches in town, and around the country, face similar circumstances today.
This is also a common phenomena when churches are in transition: giving decreases as people 'wait and see' how the new Pastor is going to work out. However, as I have talked with current members and have even met some inactive members around town I sense a real excitement and hope about the future. Good things are happening at FPC!
I know you join me, though, in being concerned about carrying such a shortfall into a new year which already has a challenging budget. It makes the hill we face a little taller to climb. We believe in God's supernatural provision for our needs but know that He calls us to be wise stewards and active in encouraging the stewardship commitment in one another. I look forward to working with the Stewardship & Finance Team early in January to address the situation frankly and create a positive, realistic plan for the coming year and years ahead. We will communicate this plan with you at the Annual Congregational Meeting on January 29.
I am personally challenged, as Pastor, to stay calm, remain prayerful, and expect to see the Lord do good things. I have faced significant challenges in my life and have learned to trust rather than panic. Otherwise I try to do things in my power rather than His.
I encourage you to submit this to the Lord in prayer and continue to do so into the new year. Pray for God's provision, and pray for wisdom for the church's leadership.
Also, if you feel led, and if you have been blessed in a special way at year's end, please consider giving an extra financial gift to First Presbyterian Church as an expression of your encouragement and hope for its bright future. This will be a great help for beginning the new year on a stronger footing.
If you have fulfilled your financial pledge for 2011 - THANK YOU for your faithful giving. It has made a big difference and touched many lives! If you still have the opportunity to fulfill your pledge completely or partially for the past year, please know that whatever you can give will be especially appreciated.
Contributions mailed to the church at 521 Lakeside Ave - 83814 will be counted toward 2011 offerings if postmarked on or before December 31 (tomorrow).
Thank you for your faithfulness! Please know that I am praying for YOU to have a safe and happy New Year celebration - I hope you can join me in worship on Sunday morning to dedicate and celebrate God's New Year!!