November is generally the month for financial discussions at South Church, as we develop Operating and Outreach budgets for the upcoming year and seek financial support from members and friends. Annual pledges are the single most important piece of the funding puzzle.
Ideally, pledged income would offset our budgeted fixed expenses, allowing proceeds from special events to be used for enhancing worship, music, education, and outreach. When pledges fall short, however, additional fundraisers are required to help cover operating costs.
Here are some common questions about pledging at South Church:
⤷ What is a pledge?
A pledge is a commitment to donate money to the church in the future. The pledge may be fulfilled with payments made on any frequency; some are able pay off their pledges early in the year, while others make weekly or monthly contributions throughout the year.
⤷ Who should pledge?
Every member household should make a financial commitment, regardless of size, to support the church's work in the coming year.
⤷ How do I pledge?
You indicate your intentions by completing a pledge form and returning it confidentially to the Financial Secretary of South Church. (The Financial Secretary and Treasurer are the only people who see your pledge.)
⤷ How much do I pledge?
Pledge what's right for you. Although it costs about $800 per member to provide church services, we know that amount is beyond the means of some members and well within the means of others. In 2008, annual pledges ranged from $80 to $8,000.
⤷ Can I designate my pledge?
Using the pledge form, you may designate any portion of your total pledge for Outreach purposes (with the balance used for operating expenses). Alternatively, you may select the "Allocate... as needed" option, and the Outreach and Finance Boards will make a general allocation recommendation for Cabinet approval.
⤷ Can I change my pledge?
You can change your pledge at any time. If you cannot fulfill your pledge, please let the Financial Secretary know as soon as possible so that we can revise our budget. Conversely, if you can increase your pledge, you may either revise your commitment, or you may simply fulfill the original pledge and continue giving; these are recorded as "unpledged gifts" and have been an important source of income in recent years.
⤷ When do I pledge?
There is always one church service designated for the collection and consecration of pledges. At this service, members are asked to walk up the aisle and place their sealed pledges in a basket. (See the church calendar for the date of this event.) Pledges must be returned by December 1st.
⤷ Can I mail my pledge?
Yes. Send your pledge to the attention of the Financial Secretary and write "Annual Pledge" somewhere on the envelope. The mailing address is 20 Church Street, Newport, NH 03773.