A budget, while it looks like just numbers on a page, is really a vision and mission document. It’s how we fund the ministries to which God is calling us. A vibrant congregational life is reflected in these numbers. Some of the highlights and changes for 2023:
- We’re projecting a 5% increase in offering income. It’s a stretch for us, but the congregation has consistently been generous, and the council believes this is what we need to engage our mission this year.
- All children and youth faith formation events are fully funded in 2023 at pre-pandemic levels.
- Vacation Bible School returns this summer.
- Two summer youth trips are planned.
- More maintenance and repair expense has been moved to the capital budget due to generous giving to that fund.
- Wednesday night dinners are included in the budget to be available at no cost for those who can’t pay.
- A 3.5% cost of living increase is included for all staff.
- Room 99 Expense is now included in the Outreach Budget.
- Full staffing for the first full year in several years, including new position for worship livestream begun last year.
- Full complement of repairs to avoid deferred maintenance in capital budget, representing strategic planning by the Facilities Committee.
- Reparations to the Native American community included in the capital budget (see reparations link for more details).
