Annual Giving Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Why are annual pledges important?
Annual pledges support everything we do at St. Luke's. Our yearly budget is driven by the generosity of our parishioners through their annual pledges. These pledges support all the operating costs of our ministry programs as well as our building and staff operations, expenses such as heating, outreach grants, newsletters and worship bulletins, and nursery caregivers.
How does St. Luke's spend the money received from annual pledges and fund raising?
In 2009, annual pledge dollars of $357,085 were the major source of our $448,695 income. Our largest expenditure in 2009 was for salaries for our staff. We also spent monies on many Parish programs and activities, capital repairs and maintenance of our three buildings. Breakdowns of these operating expenses for 2009 are as follows:
What Outreach ministries does St. Luke's support?
Every year we budget monies from our annual budget for the Diocese, the gift of Theological Education, and the Millenium Develoment Goals. We also have special fundraising efforts for Outreach monies that go to local community organizations. In 2009, for example, we gave $13,600 from local fundraising activities to this list of agencies.
How does annual pledging fit into the ministry of Stewardship?
Annual pledges are just one part of the practice of generosity and stewardship that is part of our parish life. An annual pledge supports St. Luke's annual budget. Planned giving is a gift or series of gifts that can help secure the Church's ministries beyond our individual lifetimes. In 2009, we had an average pledge of $1,995 and a median pledge of $1,320. In 2009 we had 179 pledging units; for 2010, hope to get 190 total pledging units.
How much should I give with an annual pledge?
We believe strongly that our standard of giving should reflect our standard of living. We ask each parishioner to consider making a pledge that is both responsible and significant based on their financial situation.
What does it mean to pay proportionally?
Proportional giving is based on the premise that the first 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. We ask each parishioner to consider making an annual pledge in proportion to income. Each parishioner decides for themselves based on individual circumstances.
How can I pay my annual pledge?
St. Luke's accepts cash (when included in a pledge envelope) or checks. You may also make a pledge payment of stock or other securities. In most cases, such a pledge payment may be considered a charitable deduction to avoid capital gains on the appreciation of the stock. Please call the office at 919-286-2273 to learn how to make a gift of securities.
When should I return my annual pledge card?
During our annual Every Member Canvass in the fall. We hope that you return your cards by Thanksgiving. However, pledges are gratefully received throughout the year.
Do I have to pay when I pledge? Can I pay in installments?
Returning your pledge card is simply a promise to pay. Once you've made your pledge, you can fulfill it in as many payments as you wish throughout the year. We offer weekly pledge envelopes designed to help you keep track of your payments.
Why should I pledge when I regularly 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.
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. A pledge can be increased if your circumstances change.