Why does the Church always want more money?

As many of us today are recognising it isn’t easy to keep pace with rising prices and our church is not exempt. Consideration has to be given to how we continue to support the positive things that are going on in the Stewartry and in the wider world. Over the next few weeks the Session will proceed with the design and roll out of a Stewardship campaign. Perth Presbytery has exhorted us to buy-in to the piloted Church of Scotland stewardship programme which offers to encourage churches to promote what we do with the money we raise. In whatever way the Stewartry addresses the question of giving it is clear that we need to focus on what we are giving for, to whom and to what purpose.

Year to date

While Treasurers focus on keeping the books balanced it is always encouraging to report some good news. I am pleased to note that the number of Gift Aid donors in the Stewartry has increased a little and givings in the “open plate” have also increased compared with the same time last year. The Chancellor has confirmed that any offerings made by Gift Aid will still allow us to claim back 28% from the Treasury. [At the time of the Annual Stated meeting it was not clear whether this percentage figure was going to be reduced in the Chancellor’s Budget.]

If you wish to review how you give to our church please contact Pat in the office or me. We have the forms and leaflets to explain how to become a Gift Aid donor and we shall try our best to assist you.

Russell H. Mann Treasurer

Our Church Charity Number is SCO30799

Giving to the work of The Stewartry

Regular givers to The Stewartry of Strathearn either use:

1 Standing Orders through their bank, or,

2 the Freewill Weekly Offering envelope scheme.

Members who have not received their envelopes for 2008 should contact the church office and a batch will be delivered to you.

Should you give regularly and not require the coloured FWO envelopes please let us know.

We do appreciate members and visitors who use the white Gift Aid envelopes (available in the vestibules of the churches) but do remember to fill in your name and address each time you use one.

Gift Aid Donations

If you pay tax please consider using the envelopes or completing a Standing Order form available from the church office. When you complete the appropriate form return it to us and we will relieve the Chancellor of the Exchequer of some finance for the work of our church.

Open Plate Donations

Although many members and visitors use this system we would prefer that they consider the envelope system which ensures we can plan our income against our expenditure.

Regular Review

The work of our church in The Stewartry of Strathearn continues with the goodwill of our members and friends and we are indebted to everyone who considers the amount they can afford to give to maintain the work in our corner of God’s kingdom.

Occasional Givers

Should you be a visitor to this site and/or someone who appreciates the work of the folk here in The Stewartry of Strathearn we will be delighted to accept donations. If you are a tax payer please give your name and address and quote SCO30799

Thank you

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