If your Capital Campaign steering team were selecting a theme this week, there certainly would be some competition for “For the Long Run.” Dr. Caldwell in his sermon (April 10), which can be heard online, used the term “faith that takes the long view.” This phrase eloquently expressed the idea of delayed gratification and the idea that an investment today may only show rewards in the distant future. The real purpose of this campaign is not to repair the leaks in the roof or keep us comfortable in our buildings, though it will do so. Our real purpose is to support, sustain, and even expand our ministries. Our campaign is asking for gifts “over and above” your regular giving. Deciding on an amount is a challenging process which requires prayer followed by action. No effort will be made to tell any person what he or she should commit. Questions one might consider in determining one’s part include:
- Have I asked God to direct my decision?
- Does this amount give an accurate reflection of who I am and what my resources are?
- How does this amount represent sacrifice for me?
These questions can only be answered by each of you after prayer and reflection.
Some questions we can answer are as follows:
Q. What is the purpose of the commitment cards?
A. Our church is facing a significant financial endeavor. To use our financial resources wisely, we must have an accurate indication of our cash flow for the immediate future. Completed commitment cards enable our church leaders to make wise decisions. Your historical giving provides the Finance Committee with enough knowledge to formulate our annual budget. For this campaign, however, we need to know how much and when to expect these gifts so that decisions can be made wisely.
Q. When do commitments begin?
A. As has been announced, Commitment Sunday is May 1. However, we will receive gifts as early as today!
Q. I don’t know the future. What if I can’t fulfill my commitment?
A. You are right. None of us know the future. We ask only that you pray and let God lead you to a sacrificial commitment. If your circumstances change, you can revise your commitment accordingly. This is an invitation to faith and commitment.
Q. Will my commitment remain confidential?
A. Yes! As with all church receipts, commitments will be confidential.
Q. How can I know what to commit?
A. The key ingredients of a worthy commitment are prayer, sacrifice, and faith. These are three guideposts that can lead you to the right decision.
Q. When and where will commitments be made?
A. You have received a commitment card and privacy envelope in the mail. Most members will complete their cards prior to the Commitment Sunday worship service on May 1 and turn them in during the service. The cards can also be mailed to, or brought to, the church. In addition, commitments can be made online, and these are also confidential. We will receive your commitment whenever you decide.
Q. How should I give my offerings over the next three years?
A. That is your decision. Many people will give weekly or monthly, and others will give quarterly or annually.
Q. Can I give something other than cash?
A. There can be significant tax benefits to giving property, stocks, bonds, or other appreciated assets. You are encouraged to ask your financial advisor what will be best for you.