How much does St. Martin’s need?
A. Last year about 280 households pledged about $480,000 to Annual Giving. That number is lower than it was in 2004. Some give significantly more, others give less. Annual Giving represents about 60% of the revenue source for the church budget. To fully fund the existing program, we should have about $560,000 in Annual Giving Q. I do my part and pledge what I can each year. Why am I always asked to give more? A. Because St. Martin’s needs grow and change. Each year, some pledgers move away. Others die. Many costs just rise. Take fuel. Despite a bargain contract price for the upcoming heating season, our price per gallon has doubled since 2004. That’s $10,000 right there. Insurance and benefits are also on the rise. The clergy and staff have made great strides in cost containment over the past few years, yet these combined factors require about a five to eight percent increase in pledge income each year. Just to stay even. And because our pledges in 2005 were lower than 2004, we need to
