Generosity in giving is a commitment to be good stewards of our God-given resources. Intentional giving to First Presbyterian places our lives and resources before God as an offering and a shared sacrifice. Gratitude is a natural response to grace, and it is not only a responsibility but a privilege for every member of this church to give back.

Each fall, the stewardship campaign asks FPC members to commit resources for the coming year to support the church’s programs, ministries, outreach, and operations. The campaign raises awareness among our members of the significance of their ongoing support and encourages a yearly commitment to this particular outpost of God’s kingdom. The stewardship campaign’s primary focus is inviting our members to submit a pledge. Pledge commitments provide vital information for the Finance Committee to create a budget for the following year.

No. We need everyone in the congregation to give at whatever level they can—every pledge and gift counts. The average gift of slightly over $7,500 reflects the need for many contributions to build a complete budget that supports the ministries of First Presbyterian.

Pledging is a mechanism for planning. We are a church that works best in a climate of information. The more information we have, the better we can plan for the year ahead. Your pledge allows that to happen. We recognize that some in our congregation come from different faith traditions, and some of those traditions don’t include a habit of pledging. Think of your pledge as an estimate of what you can commit under your current circumstances.

Of course. There are those in our congregation who give regularly but who do not make a pledge. We are enormously grateful for their generosity! However, pledging enables us to plan our budget more accurately. The more information we have to work with when creating the budget, the more accurate it will be by anticipating what resources will come in during the year.

Life happens, and it is okay to change your pledge! A pledge estimates what you hope to give in the coming year. It is an estimate, not a legal document. We recognize that circumstances change and that you may need to amend your original estimate. Let the development office know your anticipated change, and we will gladly amend your pledge. Don’t hesitate to contact a pastor if a difficult life circumstance impacts your pledge: they are here to support you.

The church’s budget consists of several components. These include pledged giving, non-pledged giving, income from the endowment, tuition from early preschool, recreation income, and other income. The Finance Committee, with input from pastoral and staff leadership, has the primary responsibility, with the approval of the Session, for determining the budget each year.

The average pledged contribution in 2024 was about $8,500. Below is a guide to help you consider what amount works best for you. Your participation, regardless of the amount, will make a difference and is an expression of your gratitude for blessings from God.

All gifts are a recognition and a reflection of our gratitude and God’s boundless grace. Your contribution to First Presbyterian supports all areas of church life: Education and Discipleship, Mission and Service, Worship and Music, Buildings and Security, and Administration and Operations. Each contribution helps ensure the vitality and sustainability of these areas, which are vital to living out our mission.