Stewardship

The members of Faith Presbyterian have always been generous “givers” of their time, talent, and treasure.  It is not surprising that “active care for those in need” was identified as one of the most predominant attributes of congregation as determined by our Life Together evaluation.  Faith members live “active service” to those in need not only within the walls of the church, but also in their daily lives.  Every positive theme identified by the congregation that binds members to Faith Presbyterian Church is a result of countless volunteer hours, the wisdom and discernment of our leadership, and generous gifting of in-kind donations and financial contributions. When a need arises, Faith heeds the call. 

Time – God has blessed Faith Presbyterian Church richly with our greatest resource – its people.  Many members give their time to teach, lead, sing, plan, organize, coordinate, serve and pitch in where needed.  Whether volunteering to tutor at neighborhood elementary schools, preparing and serving meals to homeless families, facilitating a 30-week Disciple class, coordinating activities to raise awareness for partnering mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo or working the “games booth” at the annual Strawberry Festival, Faith is an active, vibrant church body with dedicated, passionate members who strongly believe in service.   

Talent – Faith members offer a variety of talents and skills to advance the mission of our church.  Our programs and life together are enriched by the many “teachers” willing to educate and support our youth in Sunday School, business professionals who lead a Ministry Team; or chair a committee; and skilled workers who build, repair or improve the facility.  

Treasure - Members have always been responsive to the needs of the church, providing financially in several ways:  

• Tithing.  Every year, Faith holds a stewardship campaign to raise needed funds for the general operating budget, building fund and ministry programs.   It has always been reason for celebration.  First and  foremost, Faith is a PCUSA congregation that gives ten percent of its tithes and offerings to the shared missions’ and ministries that embody our connectedness as Presbyterians.   Additionally, Faith directs ten percent of any monies raised during special multi-year capital campaigns to missions.  The balance is applied to ministry focus areas such as endorsing sponsorship of community outreach special events. 
• Special Offerings.  In addition to participation in yearly Presbyterian offerings – One Great Hour of Sharing, Pentecost,  Peacemaking Offering, Theological Education, and Christmas Joy - Faith also generously contributes to special offerings.  For example, aiding victims of natural disasters in foreign countries (Indian Ocean tsunami), nationally (New Orleans hurricane) and locally (southern Indiana flooding), as well as taking up special offerings for church members struggling with financial hardships.
• Designated Giving.  Through yearly budgeting, a portion of the congregation’s giving is designated to the missions of Faith Presbyterian Church.  Outside of monies allocated to shared missions, the congregation often and generously gives to the ministries supported by the church. 
• Enduring Gifts of Faith.  Each year, earnings from the endowment are used for congregational care, major capital purchases, and missions and outreach.  By charter, the endowment does not support the general operating investments of the church.  Each year, five percent of the gains of the endowment are used to care for the congregation, major capital purchases, or missions and outreach and are considered permanently restricted funds.  A separate committee oversees the Enduring Gifts of Faith. 

If you have questions about Stewardship at Faith Presbyterian Church, please click here.  You will be shown a display that will give you a phone number to call or an e-mail capability.