Emmanuel Pledging FAQ

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Pledging is our response To God's love. Here are some commonly asked questions (and their answers) about stewardship and pledging.

Why should I pledge my Prayer, Presence, Gifts and Service to Emmanuel? What does Emmanuel do with my money and contributions of prayers, presence and service?

God calls on us to make tangible commitments to God with our money and through our actions toward others. Jesus said that the greatest commandment is to love God with all our heart, mind and soul, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Through our financial gifts and our contributions of prayer, presence and service, we live out our Christian faith. When you offer your prayers, presence, gifts and service to Emmanuel you are praising God and deepening your faith (Worship), caring for your neighbors (Pastoral Care), helping people in need in our community and through the world (Outreach and Missions), teaching children, youth and adults (Spiritual Formation), sharing the Good News with others (Evangelism) and maintaining our facilities which are not just our home but home to numerous community service groups (Property) and much more!

Does my pledge really matter?

Absolutely! First, your pledge is vital for your own spiritual life. On numerous occasions, Jesus warned of the danger of placing your trust in wealth rather than in God. He stated the situation plainly when he said, "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." If your treasure is wrapped up in material possessions, your spiritual life will be empty. If you are rich toward God, through your contributions to make your church, community and world a better place, your life will be more fulfilling.

The second reason your pledge matters is because Emmanuel's budget is not supported by a handful of large gifts. It takes all of our gifts combined to support the mission and ministries of Emmanuel. You must be the change you wish to see in your church. If there are things that you want to happen at Emmanuel, participate in making them happen.

What does Emmanuel need from me in 2005 and beyond?

We need your contributions of financial support, prayer, presence and service to maintain our vital ministries and to keep our talented staff. Prayerfully consider working towards a tithe (10% of your annual income) by increasing your donations each year until you are giving 10% of your income and time to God's work.

Lifetime Stewardship - Are there other giving options?

There are a number of Planned Giving options available that my make sense for your particular situation. Some, like a simple bequest included in a will, are straight-forward ways of ensuring that your support to Emmanuel will continue beyond your lifetime. Others, like Life Income Annuities and Charitable Remainder Trusts, can provide you with a current income tax deduction and ongoing income along with the opportunity to designate a future gift to Emmanuel. Contact the church office for more information about Planned Giving.