We have received virtually all of the member stewardship nonbinding pledges, and this program seems to be having a positive effect on our finances.
I initially feared that the pledge program might be met with skepticism or resistance from some members who had negative previous experiences or negative preconceptions about the idea.
To foresee any such concerns and deal with them in a constructive way, we designed the program with heavy involvement from the regional pastors, pastors and local congregations.
Ministers and members gave valuable input and enabled us as much as possible to discover people's concerns and deal with them in a constructive way. The result was a truly collaborative effort that reflected the genuine needs of ministers, members and us in Pasadena.
By and large, ministers and members supported the program, and I am thankful for the response. We received a few negative comments, of which some were constructive, and others were really out of anyone's control.
To date, our members have pledged $23 million. This is a bit less than we have budgeted for, but we expected this to be the case because not everyone who contributes will pledge.
In order to address this, we will develop a number, which, when multiplied by the pledged amount, will give us an accurate picture of what income will be.
This number will be refined over the years and will probably change and become more consistent and reliable. For this year, the multiplier will be about 1.25 or so.
The pledges seem to be stabilizing our income. Although the system is not perfect, most of you responded positively and gave it the benefit of doubt.
I am gratified by the results and thank you and congratulate you on your Christian stewardship. Truly, many, many of God's people have their hearts in this church and show it by their generous tithes and offerings.
March 18, 1997, WN, page 15
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