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Good Morning. I’m George Ittner, Junior Warden at All Saints, and this morning we are kicking off our annual Stewardship campaign. As you know, a successful campaign is absolutely vital for All Saints to fund parish ministries and programs in the coming year. The theme this year is Faith Grows Here. Over the next two weeks, you will hear fellow parishioners speak about their experience here, their faith, and their thoughts on Stewardship. I know you will be interested in their stories…and warmed by them.
My job today is to talk briefly about the campaign and where All Saints stands financially.
This year, 2020, our operating budget was planned with revenues and expenses closely matched. During the year, we received help from the Payroll Protection Plan which was a Godsend and allowed us to protect staff from layoffs at the Church and Parish School. These funds provided a one-time boost to our finances, and we now estimate that we will end this very difficult year somewhat favorable to budget.
In planning our finances for 2021, we recognize the need to plan for increased expenses due to the coming move back into the Sanctuary and the return, at some point during the year, to normal Sunday services. Additionally, we face the need to hire a full-time Music
Director. But, be assured, we will continue our stringent control of expenses overall and will seek to budget pledge income at only a one percent increase.
We’re doing everything we can think of to keep the campaign reasonably short and easy for you. It is our hope to have the campaign wrapped up by All Saints Day, November 1st. This week you will receive a stewardship packet in the mail. It has a letter from Aimee along with answers to frequently asked questions. Also enclosed is a Ministry Pledge Card.
If you pledged last year, the amount you pledged will be indicated on the card. If you are new, please do pledge. We need your help, and we are grateful for every pledge received. Once you have filled out your card, simply put in the stamped, already addressed envelope, and mail it off. We know that pledging is a matter to be considered prayerfully, but the Stewardship Committee has tried to make the mechanics as easy as possible.
This is a moment to be particularly thankful for our life together at All Saints. The reconstruction of our sanctuary is nearing completion, and we know the separation necessitated by the virus will end. I invite you to join the Clergy, the Vestry, and me in making a pledge to continue, and strengthen, our ministry in 2021. Thank you.
