As Christmas approaches, a lot goes through our minds: what to give everyone, who to invite to that special party, and where will we eat Christmas Dinner? In addition to all the planning is the nagging thought, “have I paid enough in taxes and have I paid my 2018 Church pledge and what am I […]
As year end approaches, each of you finds yourself in a different situation. Some of you are employed with an income. Maybe there’s a possibility of a bonus. Some of you are retired and on a fixed income. Still others are “between jobs” at the moment, but possibly with a large severance or buyout payment, […]
Here are two cut/paste articles to include in your church’s newsletter or Sunday morning bulletins during October, November and early December. We suggest running each one multiple times. Please call if you have questions. Gifts of Stock – A Great Way to Give to [Your Church’s Name] Many of us have stock that has appreciated substantially during […]
As we travel around the great state of Virginia, savvy investors point out that the current bull market has just become the longest in history. (Others say it has another 18 months before we can truly say it is the longest.) Regardless, people are concerned that a bear market must be right around the corner. […]
I have an Investment Advisor who never forgets a birthday, anniversary or special occasion. I began to think about all the special things she does and I realized that we, in the church, often do not appreciate our givers like that. Many givers would say that they don’t need a thank you, but bottom line […]
Many of you have asked how the current questions and issues surrounding the denomination will affect the Foundation and Development Company. The short answer is that we don’t know for certain – only time and prayer will tell. You may be aware of the key elements in the forthcoming timeline: In August, the Commission on The […]
As I travel from church to church, all I hear is “We need more money!” Has this conversation come up at your church? Do you meet your budget or do you have the funds you need for mission work? Does your church have maintenance issues that they can’t afford? Many churches tell me they don’t […]
Because of the new tax law, many people may find it more useful to use the new standard deduction ($12,000 for individuals and $24,000 for couples) and not itemize their deductions as they have done in the past. Some people, however, may want to itemize their deductions, but aren’t sure whether they will have enough […]
Have you looked recently at what banks are offering individual investors using CD’s? I did some research and the results are amazing. I found a bank that pays 2.4% on a 12-month CD. The only bad point is that you have to invest $25,000 to get that rate. Rates ranged from 2.4% all the way […]
We’ve been working on Stewardship Resources, trying to be ready to help churches with their Stewardship Programs. Many churches we’re seeing have checking accounts and different funds, not drawing any interest or if interest bearing, they’re not drawing very much. What is good stewardship? Stewardship is having a Fall Campaign to ask people to pledge, […]