COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT STEWARDSHIP AND FINANCIAL
GIVINGThere is no right answer. You should give the amount that feels right to you. When Jesus watched many people putting large sums of money into the temple treasury, he commented on the widow who put in a penny – because she was generous. It is not the amount that matters, but our generosity.
Why do I need to pledge at all?
There are two reasons. First, it encourages you to consider your giving in a thoughtful and prayerful way. This helps you set a budget, so you won’t be just placing your loose change in the offering basket each week. Second, this helps us to set a budget for the year.
You always talk about a “tithe.” What is that?
The Bible says that God asks people to give the first
ten percent of what they receive for God’s work. This is the tithe –
10%. If you can’t give that much, we urge you to practice “proportional
giving.”
OK, what is “proportional giving?”
This is when you set aside a given percentage of your income, and give that proportion for God’s work. If you can’t give ten percent, you can try one or three or five or some other percentage. This is still a proportional gift. Giving this way helps us to ensure that we are giving “off the top” of what we make, rather than giving God our leftovers – a few dollars when we think we can.
What if I can’t give anything? What if I can only give a little?
Every one who wants to be involved in the life and ministry of Christ Church is welcome. Period. Whether you give a million dollars or 50 cents, you are a holy person, made in God’s image – and we don’t check financial statements in any decision-making here at Christ Church. The only reason to give is your own spiritual well-being, not to earn a place here at Christ Church. Membership is free. Eternal life is free. Living a life of discipleship is costly, but you make that choice only when you are ready.
Almost all of your money is spent right here at Christ Church. This money funds our priest’s salary and the salaries of our other staff. The money pays for the expenses to operate a building: insurance, heating oil, electricity, etc. Our budget covers program expenses (paper, supplies, and books). Some of our money is sent to the Diocese of Rhode Island.
Why do we give money to the Diocese?
By canon (rule) of the Diocese, 17.5% of our operating income is sent to support diocesan ministries. These ministries include the Episcopal Camp & Conference Center, diocesan programs, and staff salaries for people who serve as resources to our parish and to every parish. Some of the money from our diocese is sent to the Episcopal Church for ministries around the world. We give this money not just because it is required, but because in our tradition, congregations see themselves not as independent churches but as parts of a wider church.
Can I restrict my money to specific things?
Sometimes we accept restricted gifts. However, the spiritual disciple of stewardship asks that we give without expectation. We need to practice the kind of generosity where we give away some of what we have, trusting that it will be used to support God’s work at Christ Church. Practically speaking, no one likes to pay the oil bill, but it has to be paid. We require about $300,000 to fund our budget, and we would not achieve that if people only gave restricted gifts.
How do I know where my money is going?
The financial affairs of our church are overseen by a Vestry, an elected group of Christ Church members and our priest. The Vestry meets once each money, and meetings are open to anyone who would like to see what is happening. In addition, our treasurer posts monthly reports in the Great Hall, detailing all income and expenses. Once each year, our parish gathers for an Annual Meeting to elect the Vestry and to approve the budget. In short, our financial operations are completely transparent. There are no secrets, and you are welcome to speak with any Vestry member, our treasurer, or our priest at any time.
Who will know how much I have pledged?
The treasurer and assistant treasurer enter financial information into a computer, and they use projected income to help us prepare a budget. Our priest has access to financial giving information, and some information may be available to members of the Stewardship Committee during our campaign. This information is handled with the utmost discretion. Giving details are never discussed publicly or disclosed for reasons other than the support of our stewardship campaign and financial operations.
You can complete a pledge card, either using a paper card, or by clicking on the "On-line Pledge Card" at the bottom of the page
If you choose to use weekly envelopes, we will send you a supply for the year. Each week, you may place cash or a check into the envelope. You can also use online banking to set up a recurring payment (e.g. monthly) to Christ Church.
No, we don’t accept credit cards now.
What about electronic payments?
We do offer automatic electronic debits. With this service, we will arrange for your contribution to be debited you’re your bank account each month. Christ Church absorbs a small processing fee; there is no charge to you. When you complete your pledge card, check this box, and someone will contact you to get the appropriate details. We use a reputable firm, and we shred any record of your credit card number; we strive for complete safety of your financial information.
Can I pay my pledge with a transfer of stock or other securities?
Yes, please let us know if you wish to do this. We will make the appropriate arrangements. This can be very beneficial, depending on your tax situation.
What if I can’t pay my pledge?
You can change your pledge at any time – downward or upward. Just call the Church Office
I have other questions, what do I do?
Talk to someone else here at Christ Church. Any member will speak with you. You can speak with our Vestry or our Stewardship Committee. You are also very welcome to contact the Church Office and make an appointment to speak with Scott.
