What Does It Mean to Be a Steward?

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:21

God calls us to be good stewards of all we are given – creation, relationships, our bodies, our talents, money and other material gifts of all sorts.

Generosity as a Way of Life

Generosity is a matter of action, intentions, and heart. One way to describe it is the grateful outpouring of gifts to others, out of our love for God. Outpouring is a terrific description, since the priceless treasure of the gospel (and all the gifts of covenant, relationship, and life that go with it) comes from God and is meant to be poured out, through our living, upon others. A starting place is the recognition that God has invited us to be responsible for our lives and resources. With God in our lives, we are better stewards in the world.

Making Your Pledge

Each year, we are asked to make a stewardship pledge for the upcoming calendar year. Your pledge is a one-year financial commitment to support the ministry within our congregation, to the larger United Methodist Church, and to the world. A pledge made in connection with the current stewardship drive is to be donated in the coming year. You can make your pledge by filling out our online pledge card or by returning your paper pledge card.

MAKE YOUR ANNUAL PLEDGE FOR 2027 HERE!

FAQs

What is an Appropriate Pledge Amount?

The amount of one’s stewardship pledge is a personal, spiritual decision. The biblical concept of tithing (contributing 10% of one’s income to the church and other worthy organizations) is a standard to prayerfully consider. Some may be able to equal or exceed the tithing level. Others will pledge at a lower level. All pledge contributions, regardless of the amount, are gratefully received as an expression of your commitment.

How Many Households Give?

Typically, around 350 local households pledge each year. More online members are giving regularly as well through reoccurring Vanco donations. Annually, we hope for 100 increased pledges and 50 new household pledges.

Why are Pledges Important?

Pledges are essential to help us budget as a church; programming, church staffing, building upkeep, various missions and ministries, and our Apportionments (our tithe to the Oregon-Idaho Conference and the greater UMC) all rely on giving to the Operating Fund. Our Church Council and Finance Committee rely on these pledges to forecast where we can grow our ministry.

How are Pledge Donations Paid?

People fulfill their pledge in the manner that best meets their circumstances. One may give weekly, monthly, quarterly, or annually via cash, checks, or automatic bank withdrawal. You can also donate online through Vanco. Pledges may also be paid with stock donations, QCDs or RMDs. If you’d like to donate through a stock transfer, please contact the finance office for the appropriate form. If you have questions about a QCD or RMD, the church finance office can answer your questions.

MAKE YOUR ANNUAL PLEDGE FOR 2027 HERE!