Every year, pledges to the Annual Fund support the operating budget of St. Michael’s, funding our worship, Christian education, outreach and mission, building and grounds, staff and other programs. The Annual Fund is critical to the life of St. Michael’s. St. Michael’s maintains a balanced budget each year, with every dollar put to wise use invested in the people, place and prayerful plans of St. Michael’s.
FAQs
What is St. Michael’s annual budget?
St. Michael’s 2024 operating budget was approximately $2 million, almost 90 percent of which comes exclusively from your pledge dollars.
How are my pledge dollars used?
Pledges fund our programs, outreach, operations, communications, worship, music, building and grounds maintenance, utility expenses and personnel expenses for clergy and staff.
How can I pledge?
During the Annual Fund campaign, pledge cards are mailed to each St. Michael’s household. You can complete a pledge card and return it to the church on Pledge Sunday or by mail, or contact our Financial Administrator, Susan Little or Director of Development Catherine Fain to pledge. We encourage you to make your pledge during the Annual Fund campaign if you are able, however, pledges are accepted throughout the year, and all pledges are confidential.
How much should I pledge?
First and foremost, pledging is a spiritual endeavor. You are returning a portion of the gifts God has given you for the work of his kingdom. We encourage you to spend time in prayer asking for guidance. Our average pledge for 2024 was approximately $3,500. The size of your gift doesn’t matter; your participation at any level matters most.
Does my pledge make a difference?
Yes, every single pledge, large or small, is important as we strive to reach our goal! Each year our staff works with the Vestry to plan our operating budget for the coming year. This helps us know what benchmarks our parish needs to meet to ensure that we will have a fully funded budget for the coming year, and, in turn, can provide our parishioners with all of the wonderful programming, support and community we all hold so dearly here at St. Michael’s. In fact, making a pledge during the Annual Fund campaign is one of the best ways you can help us plan for the next year.
Can funds from the Holy Michael Foundation be used for operating expenses?
No, the bylaws of the Holy Michael Foundation prohibit its funds being used for St. Michael’s operating expenses. Our annual budget is almost wholly funded by your generous pledges. We do not rely on the Foundation as a source of funding for church operations. The Foundation is intended to expand our parish’s ability to support important missions and ministries outside of the church. We encourage you to consider HMF in your planned giving; if you would like more information on the Holy Michael Foundation click here or email our Director of Development Catherine Fain Southard.
When do I pledge?
It is most helpful for us to receive your pledge during the Annual Fund campaign in order for the Vestry to prepare and approve the coming year’s budget in a timely manner. We appreciate receiving pledges as soon as possible, ideally by Pledge Sunday, which is typically in mid-October or soon thereafter.
How do I pledge?
Give and pledge online through our secure, confidential portal.
Complete a pledge card and mail to St. Michael’s.
Place your filled out pledge card in an offering plate.
Use our direct debit option.
Send a confidential email to Susan Little, financial administrator, or contact Catherine Fain Southard, director of development, to submit your pledge. If you’d prefer a pledge card, please contact Catherine.
