News from MCC of Greater Dallas

Last Sunday, the Board of Directors presented information on the first quarter finances of MCCGD. Our per capita giving is approximately $54 per person which is awesome! In a time of economic recession, we understand that there are many financial stresses for people so this level of support of the church is especially appreciated! Expenses have exceeded income due to some items that were/are behind. The first quarter of the year is also hit with several annual expenses. We have reduced our expenses by reducing the Pastor's salary, eliminating the Office Manager position and eliminating our contribution of 1% to MCC's church planting. Fundraising ideas accompanied by volunteers to plan/staff them would be greatly appreciated. While attendance has been lower this year than the same time period last year, statistics show that it is only lower by 6 people. We are aware of a number of our members who currently have to work on Sundays. (We are looking at ways to engage these people in community.) We are also aware of people who have altered their frequency of travel to the church due to fuel costs. Within the church, there are members who have lost their jobs and who are at risk of losing their homes. While these are not the only factors, they are identifiable factors that have affected income and attendance. Copies of the financial statement are available at the church.

The Lease for our space is up for renewal. The Lease contained an option to renew with an increase of $500 which would make our monthly lease cost $7,500. The Board was able to negotiate the adding of two extra rooms for a total of $7,556 per month including the construction costs. This doubles the size of the space for both Children's Church and the Nursery! It may seem strange to increase the size of our space at a time that we are cutting back staff. Remember that the rent was going up anyway! This is a win-win. We have to pay more yet we get more space for our children.

Conversations were had about communicating volunteer needs, recruiting volunteers, respecting our shared property, taking care of our space and several other items related to our life and work together.

The Pastor gave a brief update on the "Would Jesus Discriminate?" campaign plans and invited the congregation to join in a Conference Call Prayer Meeting. (Details on future calls will be in listed in these emails.)

Remember that Board Meetings are open. You are invited to ask Board Members your questions. You are welcome to review financial statements. This is your church! Thank you for your support and involvement!