Online Donations

What is Stewardship in the Episcopal Church?

Stewardship is about being grateful, responsible stewards of the gifts we receive from God.

More Than Money!

We believe that stewardship as more than simply contributing money to the church; it’s also about contributing time and talents, and volunteering for ministry and mission.

Giving and Pledging FAQ

Q: What does it mean to make a pledge?
A: Faithful stewardship is a commitment to manage one’s time, talents, or money as an expression of faith and a personal response to God’s generosity. An annual pledge represents a monetary commitment to help Grace to fund ministry and church operations, based in the faith that guides your stewardship of all your resources. A pledge is a statement of intent, not a legal obligation. It can be changed at any time.

Q: Why should I pledge? I have given faithfully in the past.
A: While every gift is greatly appreciated, pledging is a very important part of Grace’s budget planning.  Knowing in advance the total income we can expect from pledging allows our Vestry and staff to plan for the ministry that will be financially possible in the coming year. Over two-thirds of our income comes from pledges, so it is essential that we have an accurate estimate of this income when we budget.

Q: How do people decide on how much to pledge?
A: Pledging is a personal or family decision and many factors can go into deciding how much to pledge.  At Grace, we encourage parishioners to consider their pledge as a percentage of their income, rather than as a fixed amount for all.  Those who have higher incomes are able to and expected to pledge higher amounts.  An advantage of committing a percentage of income is that this approach has the flexibility to naturally adapt as our incomes change over time.  We have also encouraged Grace members to consider taking a step up in their percentage with tithing (10%) as an ultimate goal.

Q: How does Grace use the funds derived from Annual Pledges?
A: Annual pledges provide the funds necessary to keep Grace operational from day-to-day, all year round.  They pay for the clergy and staff who lead our worship services and music, who provide inspiration and leadership for teaching of children, youth, and adults, manage the communications and building.  Pledged funds also pay for maintaining the building in comfort with heat, A/C, and light, and for the materials and technology needed to support all of our ministries.  All pledges are greatly appreciated and funds are carefully spent with oversight from the Vestry.

Q: This is an important decision for me. I am concerned about my employment status / financial security. What if it changes?
A: Unexpected events happen. We know such situations can cause financial hardship, and we hope that you would share that you are experiencing such a hardship so that we can be supportive of you during such a time. Your peace and recovery are a priority for the church.  If you are unable to continue your financial commitment, please reach out to the church office. You can adjust or eliminate your pledge based on your new circumstances.

Q: I am unable to make significant gifts. Do small gifts make a difference?
A: Absolutely, small gifts matter and they do add up. For example, if ten more people pledged just $10 per week, it would cover the supplies, curriculum, and other practical resources for our children’s, youth, and adult classes. Yes, every gift makes a difference, and every gift is appreciated.

Q: What do I do next?

A: Pray—giving thanks for what you have been given. Then pray for All Saints and think about what it means to you. Ask God to guide you in the commitment you make for the coming year. Allow yourself to be led by the Spirit. Talk with your spouse, partner, or a trusted friend. We’re all in this together, and we all care about our parish. You will arrive at the right number to put on your pledge card. Discernment is important, but don’t wait too long. Let’s make it easy for the volunteers who have to follow up and try to get all those pledges in and the folks who have to plan our budget for 2024. Pledging early is a sign of your care for those who care for this parish.

Q: Do I receive a statement?
A: Yes, you will receive periodic statements of your contributions during the course of the year, both for your tax records and to confirm the accuracy of our records.

Q: How do I pay my pledge?
There are many ways to pay a pledge.  The most common are a check by mail, electronic transfer online, or by using cash or check placed in the offering plate in person.  Additional details are provided on our website: https://gracecarthage.com

Please contact the church office for further information, as needed, for less common payment methods such as appreciated securities, donor-advised funds, or for your specific situation.