Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church

GROWING FAITH
With an Attitude of Gratitude

Frequently Asked Campaign Questions

1. Why do we have this debt? Did we build more than we could afford?
The debt is primarily the result of unpaid building loans. Previous campaigns did not generate the funds necessary to fully finance our new addition. Before starting this project, the church leadership expected the need to complete multiple campaigns in order to pay for our facilities. With congregations our size, multiple campaigns for a building project is very common.

2. What is the campaign goal and is it all going toward our debt?
The campaign study indicated the ability to complete a $650,000 campaign over a three year period with a faith goal of $750,000. Even if we reach our campaign goal, we will still carry a debt of approximately $1.5 million. We are going to have to conduct this campaign as well as make future efforts to eliminate our debt. Church debt is similar to a home mortgage in that we have an obligation to make monthly payments. Unfortunately, unlike a home mortgage there is no tax deduction since the church pays no taxes. Every dollar of interest or principal payment that is reduced is a dollar that can be directed to essential church ministries.

There has been a proposal to direct 5% of campaign funds to special building projects of our mission partners. This will be decided at our May congregational meeting.

3. How is the mortgage being paid?
Contrary to what many members believe our mortgage payments are not paid out of the general offering fund but out of a building fund. These are our two main accounts. The general fund is supplied by our regular offerings and is used for all of our expenses other than the mortgage. The building fund is supplied by special capital campaigns. The most recent, “Forward in Faith” was completed in December 2008. We are now beginning the “Growing Faith, with an Attitude of Gratitude” capital campaign. Our goal as stated above is to make our regular mortgage payments and reduce our debt.

4. Can the church’s debt be refinanced to lower the interest?
We currently have a 25 year Adjustable Rate Mortgage loan with Thrivent Financial for Lutherans with an interest rate of 4.875%, adjustable every 5 years. The first 5 year anniversary is in October of 2010. The church Finance Committee is exploring possible options for refinancing.

5. Is this the right time to conduct a campaign considering the economy?
The economy is a concern for most, but as previously stated the church must meet its obligations. Therefore, a campaign is necessary to continue paying down our debt. We are asking each member to consider a pledge to the best of their ability and most importantly ask for God’s guidance.
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6. What if my financial situation changes after I pledge?
It is understood that pledges are made in good faith by members who fully expect their circumstances will enable them to fulfill their commitment. If your circumstance changes, we ask you to notify the church that the total commitment may not be forthcoming or that you desire a longer timeline than originally planned. Conversely, if your situation changes positively, it is never too late to increase your commitment.

7. Why do we need a professional fundraising firm and how are they paid?
Our congregation doesn’t have the necessary experience or volunteer time to maximize our potential for a campaign. It has been proven that by hiring a firm to assist with a campaign, churches increase giving far beyond the costs. We have hired Mark Davy & Associates, a local consulting firm with 20 years experience. They have assisted over 350 churches with campaigns for building and debt reduction. They are paid based on a predetermined fee and not a percentage of pledges. Mark Davy & Associates will be our partner in this campaign from beginning to end.

8. When does the campaign begin, how long will it last and how will it be conducted?
Education of the congregation will begin immediately. We will have a campaign kick-off weekend during the month of June. Shortly after, every member will be contacted either through personal visits or mail.

There will be no hard-selling. We believe this campaign will succeed because you see your gift not as an obligation, but rather as the means to ensure the continued development of the nurturing Faith community.

9. How will we include all members in this campaign?
Each member will be sent the same amount of information regarding the campaign and most importantly each household will be asked to give. “Not equal gifts, but equal sacrifices.” is the theme that best describes this effort. Not everyone can make a large gift, but everyone has the ability to make a sacrificial commitment. It is the leadership’s hope that all will make a pledge to this important campaign.

10. Can I volunteer to help?
Absolutely! Campaigns are successful because people are willing to pitch in to accomplish the objectives. For general information on the many ways you can get involved please contact any member of the capital campaign leadership team: Ron Christenson 442-2470, Scott Deadrick 442-2370, Ross Hanson 442-4030 or Charlie Vacek 442-8841.

11. What is the vision for Faith Lutheran Church in the next five to ten years?
The vision for Faith Lutheran Church is to continue as a warm and welcoming community. We hope for growth in membership while maintaining the current friendly environment. In order to be responsible stewards we must work to eliminate our debt. When we have reduced it to an affordable amount, consideration for building on to our facility is a great possibility. As this campaign moves forward, the leadership promises to keep the congregation updated on future plans.