MONEY MATTERS

Concerns

Isn’t money the root of all evil?

No, the Bible maintains the “love of money” is the root of all kinds of evil.  1 Timothy 6:10 says, For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”

Why do churches keep asking for money all the time?

Frankly, it turns me off and I think it does the same to lots of others. If people want to give that’s fine, but I don’t think they ought to be talked into giving money.

People shouldn’t be “talked into” giving money to God’s work. The Bible says we should give because we want to, and “not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7).

At the same time, churches and other ministries need money to operate; to be blunt, if they don’t have any, they’ll go out of existence. Even Jesus’ little band of disciples had a treasurer, and the Bible mentions several women who “were helping to support them out of their own means” (Luke 8:3). In our own ministry, we have always tried to make people aware of the opportunities we have before us, and encourage them to support us if God leads them to do so.

Can I trust the church with that much money?

If you’re willing to trust the church with your kids and teach you God’s word then you can probably trust the church with your money.  Trinity is completely transparent about its finances and has consolidated how financial gifts are handled in order to avoid confusion and best track them responsibly.  Checks and balances have been implemented to preempt any question as to the integrity of the money counting and allocations.  Money from one fund cannot be transferred into another fund meaning your designation is honored completely.  With regards to spending, monies are not spent without the blessing of the Consistory.

Giving because you want to

Q: Want to give thanks to God and deepen your faith?

How has God blessed you? How can you share those blessings with others?
Those are two fundamental questions of faith.

At Trinity, many of us find that committed giving of our financial resources is an essential spiritual discipline, one that deepens our faith in God as it also helps others.

Q: Why pledge?

First and foremost, pledging to your faith community is an expression of your hope for our ministry together.

Second, pledging also allows Trinity to plan for the year ahead, so we can create a budget that empowers us to do the things God calls us to do.

Trinity is wholly sustained by the yearly pledges of members and friends. Without such generosity, our ministries of worship, education, outreach and welcoming wouldn’t happen. But with this generosity, Trinity continues to grow, sharing the life-giving power of God’s love with an ever-wider circle.

Q: Are there other ways to give?

Yes! One-time gifts often help fund special programs. You can make them in honor of someone important to you – or in memory of someone who has blessed your life.

Trinity has several special funds that provide for needs and programs beyond the yearly budget (General Operating Fund) including the Memorial Fund, the Deacon’s Fund, and the Mission of the Month.  Please consult with the Pastor Kirsten to discern how best to make an honorary or memorial gift.

Our investments began with bequests from the estates of members and friends. Remembering Trinity in your will leaves a lasting legacy, one that offers God’s love through the Trinity to future generations. Pastor Kirsten would be glad to speak with you about this important way of giving.

Above all, know that whatever you decide to give, your pledge, bequest, or special gift will be well used in support of Trinity’s ministry in this world, now and in years to come.

Scripture Passages

Tax Write-Offs

Trinity is a qualified charitable organization. You can claim church offerings on Schedule A of your federal Form 1040.  Our officers can provide you with a report at the end of the year for this purpose.  However, if the cash you put in the offering plate is not identified with your name you will have to keep track of such donations on your own.

 

For information on Pledging, Tithing, Giving, click here.

For information on Online Giving, click here.