Looking Ahead to 2026

Dear Church Family,

Allow me to begin with deep gratitude for all who give so generously and regularly to support the ministries of our church. Your faithful tithes and offerings are vital, sustaining the work we do together to share God’s love and advance His kingdom in our community. Every gift, no matter the size, is a beautiful expression of our collective faith and commitment.

As we look ahead to 2026, we invite you to prayerfully consider your giving for the coming year. Making a pledge, whether through regular tithes, one-time gifts, or recurring donations, not only provides greater consistency for our church’s ministries but also nurtures a deeper spiritual discipline in our own faith journey. When we commit to giving with intention and consistency, we participate more fully in God’s work and grow in trust and generosity, reflecting the heart of Jesus Christ.

Here are some ways you might consider contributing next year:

• Tithes and Offerings: These are the regular donations we give during worship, such as through monthly online giving (ACH or other online platforms). They also include the traditional practice of giving 10% of our income to honor God’s provision. 10% is not a requirement, but a goal. According to the Lake Institute on Giving, most Christians in the U.S. give between 3% and 4% of their annual income.

• One-Time Gifts: These are donations made as a single contribution during the year. A special note for those over 70½ years old: Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement accounts can be directed as charitable gifts, offering tax advantages while supporting our church’s mission in a meaningful way. Consult your tax advisor for guidance on handling this transaction.

• Planned Giving: Legacy gifts such as bequests, charitable trusts, or naming the church as a beneficiary of life insurance or retirement plans help secure the future of our ministries for generations to come.

• Stock, Securities, and Real Estate Donations: Contributions of appreciated stocks, bonds, or property are encouraged and can offer significant support with potential tax benefits for the donor.

As you consider these options, remember that giving is more than just a financial act; it's an act of worship and trust, a partnership in God’s mission. Through our faithful stewardship, we strengthen our relationship with Christ and show our love for the church community.

Please take a moment to consider how you can support our church in 2026. Pledging helps us plan better and ensures that the vibrant ministries we value can continue and grow. If you haven’t received a pledge card in the mail, they are available in the church office and in the worship guide for the next two weeks. You can also call Stefanie Johnson, our Finance Manager, in the church office to make your pledge over the phone.

Thank you for your generous hearts, your prayers, and your commitment to the life and work of our church. May God bless each of us as we give with joy and faith.

With gratitude and hope,

Dale