Stewardship FAQs
STEWARDSHIP: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is pledging? Pledging is a covenant made to contribute a certain amount of money over a period of time. Our current stewardship campaign (aka "pledge drive") is asking parishioners to let us know what they will be able to contribute to St. Paul's over 2019 so that we can plan for our mission and ministry in the coming year. It is necessary for us to know how much we will be receiving in pledges so we can prepare a budget for 2019. Pledges can be any amount, usually given periodically (weekly, monthly, quarterly) throughout the year. Some people give a one-time lump sum. All pledges, large and small, are valued as a commitment in faith to our community. You can pledge with your paper pledge card, or online at www.stpaulspgh.org
What if I can't meet my pledge? Things can happen over a year: job loss, illness, moves. We understand this. If you find you can't meet your pledge or part of your pledge, please inform the treasurer, Bob Johnston at [email protected], (412) 327-9342.
Does St. Paul's receive any financial support from the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh or any other church? St. Paul's supports the Diocese through an assessment based on our operating expenses. The Diocese provides pastoral support to priests and parishes, support for church development, and different types of educational programs.
How does St. Paul's meet its expenses? St. Paul's has a budget of approximately $851,000 which includes salaries and benefits for a full-time rector, assistant rector and lay staff, as well as expenses for the building, missions, and education. We hope to add a second Assistant Rector next year as well. Annual pledges meet a large portion of the budget. The remainder comes from use of the building, investments and some other sources. Please look over our annual budget if you want to know where the money comes from and how it is spent. It is important to remember that the salaries of our clergy and staff are part of our mission of providing the sacraments of the church, pastoral care, education, and music ministry.
How are financial decisions made at St. Paul's? Financial decisions are made by the vestry of St. Paul's. The vestry is the name for the church's "board of directors." Members are elected to three year terms. Officers include the Senior and Junior Wardens, Treasurer and Clerk. The vestry meets monthly.
Who needs to pledge? We ask all members to pledge. If you have never pledged before, you can start out with a modest sum. Given on a regular basis over a year, this provides needed support.
Is stewardship just all about money? We value the gifts of time and talent that all of our members give. We value each person who walks in our door as a precious gift.
