Facing Financial Challenges at First Church

It is no secret that we are in the midst of difficult economic times—locally, nationally, and internationally. In the last two issues of the newsletter, there have been full-page appeals or updates from the church’s Finance Committee. This month, there is no such appeal or update—not because we have weathered the storm entirely, but because we are still in the process of making decisions about how best to deal with our situation.

As we make our way through these difficult times together, it is important for us to keep our eyes on God, remember our calling as disciples of Jesus, and ask for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. That is my commitment as pastor, and I believe it is the conviction of the leaders, members, and friends of First United Methodist Church.

There are several steps we have already taken to reduce expenditures, and there are others under consideration. The steps we have taken so far include:

• Elimination of a weeknight Vacation Bible School this summer.
• Elimination of the purchase of Sunday School curriculum on a “standing order” basis, except for the most basic resources for teachers.
• Elimination of cell phones for any staff member being paid for through the church budget.
• Closing the church office every Friday during the summer.=
• Reducing the number of phone lines. This may mean that you receive a busy signal when you call the church.
• Asking people to pick up their quarterly giving reports rather than automatically sending them via First Class mail.

In addition, I have indicated to the Staff Parish Relations Committee and Finance Committee my willingness to take a $250 to $500 per month reduction in salary, beginning as early as September 1, 2009. No action has yet been taken on this possibility.
In the meantime, I invite members, friends, and constituents of First United Methodist Church to continue to sustain the work of the church through their prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness.