Stewardship: Showing that We Care

We recognize one of the truths of all the world’s great religions: that generosity is central to a healthy spiritual life. We believe in the ancient practice of giving as a spiritual exercise, used like any other meditation practice to deepen and strengthen the soul. Members of this church who give generously—to this church and elsewhere—tell of the joy and empowerment they feel when they live out of a sense of abundance. Our faith calls us to welcome the stranger at the door, to share our resources with others in need, and to care for our planet. This is the meaning of Stewardship.

As Unitarian Universalists, we believe it is the right and responsibility of each local congregation to govern itself. There is no centralized authority that supports us financially, nor does it tell us what to do or what to believe. Each UU congregation is self-sustaining: our primary source of financial support comes from our members who make financial gifts to the church. As a group of people covenanted together into a church, we believe that a financially healthy church is the responsibility of all members. We also know that if this church and this faith are to live into the future for our children and grandchildren, we must care for this institution, and keep it strong.

Values Based Budget

Things to Consider When Pledging

Our current budget of $1.4 million is primarily met through the generosity of all who participate in our faith community.

Since each congregant is at a different place financially, we ask everyone to seriously consider the idea of the “liberal tithe”: 5% of their income to be designated for the church, and 5% earmarked for other worthwhile causes. For many congregants, 5% for the church is not a problem and they can easily reach or surpass this level of commitment. For others, such a goal may be difficult. If so, we ask them to start their initial pledge at 3%, and increase that amount by ½ % each year, until 5% is comfortably reached. If you can afford to pledge more, you will help others who are unable to do so.

Members Renew Their Pledge Annually

When you join the church as a new member, you will be asked to make your first financial commitment to the church by making a Pledge. The pledge you make upon joining is for the remainder of the current calendar year (ending December 31).

Then, each autumn, during our Annual Fund Drive, you will be asked, along with all other congregants, to make a new financial pledge for the next calendar year.

This year, it will take an average household pledge of  $2,000 to sustain the church. Think about this: what would you expect to pay for membership in a health club, or to dine in a good restaurant? Certainly, First Church exercises your mind, and feeds your soul and spirit. How much would you pay for such a feast? What is it worth to you? These are questions of spirit and generosity, and we ask you to carefully consider this important aspect of Membership.