Where does all the money go?

The Stewardship Campaign raises the funds to operate the church. A fair question is “Our Stewardship efforts raise a lot of money, so where does it all go?”

At 54% of our budget ($421,848.03 in 2004), our biggest expense by far is salaries and benefits for our employees. Our priests and staff are committed and dedicated, and they deserve competitive wages and benefits. Investing in our people is the best investment we can make as we work to build the Church of the Redeemer in the future.

The second largest expense category in our budget relates to the cost of operating the Church and maintaining its buildings. Those costs are significant, and in 2004 they accounted for 33% of our budget or $261,413.52.  Our church building is a treasure that has been given to us on loan. We must take care of it properly to preserve it for future parishioners to cherish and enjoy.

The third largest budget category incorporates our Diocesan Assessment. At 13% of our budget ($103,615 in 2004), this pledge is a way that we as a parish help support the broader Episcopal Church. Parishioners can be proud of the help that they are providing. Your Wardens and the Vestry make every effort to conserve and economize, but the fact is that a 119-year-old Church the size of ours is fairly costly to operate even before the cost of programs and offerings is considered. Please be assured that all contributions are greatly appreciated and every effort is made to spend the collected monies wisely and judiciously. If you have any questions or comments about the church budget, members of the Vestry would be happy to discuss them with you.

Please help us make Stewardship successful.  Make a pledge to support the Redeemer.