Our annual stewardship campaign continues to progress successfully and all indications are that we are well ahead of where we were this time last year. We have received 138 pledges thus far. However, we still have 54 pledge cards that have not been returned yet.

The Finance Committee will begin the budgeting process next week. The Committee's preliminary work will include revenue estimates based on pledges received and projections of pledges yet to be received. With 54 pledge cards still outstanding, the preliminary budgeted revenue will be very conservative and probably much lower than it will end up being. Many committees working within our five principal ministries are planning on growing and thus will be requesting increases in funding next year. We also know that expenses will be going up in a number of areas next year. Until we get more pledges in, the Finance Committee will not be able to effectively budget for 2015.

We're still early in the budgeting process, but I would urge those of you who have not sent in your pledge for 2015 to do so. It will greatly facilitate the planning and budgeting process for all of our parish activities in the coming year, which is going to be an exciting and successful one for our church family.

Blessings,