“An annual pledge differs from other charitable contributions. It is both a spiritual practice and a practical way to support the life and work of our Cathedral.”
Dear St. John's Family
We are about to enter the holiday season and as we move into Thanksgiving and Christmas, I hope you join will join me in another “season” of the church. That is the season of stewardship. Please take some time to think, pray, and reflect on what your faith and participation in and support of St. John’s, means to you. If this is a family decision, I hope this is a conversation for the entire family.
Then join me and take the next step which is to make a monetary pledge (a “promise” of specific support) for the ministries, worship, and outreach that will be funded for the months ahead. Your money funds SKIP church for our children, programs for youth, worship downtown and at Lakeshore, the amazing technology that draws our virtual community on television and YouTube, our wonderful music, our outreach ministry with Green Magnet Academy and the Volunteer Ministry Center, and the platform to host and offer bible studies, prayer, and learning opportunities by the dozens.
So, happy Stewardship St. John’s! This is a joyous time be thankful for one another and for the many ways we can Give and Live the love of Jesus Christ.
The Very Reverend John C. Ross
WHAT IS A PLEDGE?
A pledge is the amount you plan to contribute during a specific fiscal year. It is a financial commitment to the Cathedral that helps pay for our ministries, staff and building upkeep. Pledges enable us to plan responsibly and help establish a sustainable annual operating budget. It is also your way of affirming your membership at the Cathedral and your expression of gratitude to God for all that has been given to you.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A GIFT AND A PLEDGE?
A gift is a one-time donation payment and may go towards a specific fund. While these are greatly appreciated, what we really need are pledges. A pledge is the amount you plan to give during a specific fiscal year. It is a financial commitment to the Cathedral that helps pay for our ministries, staff, and building upkeep. Pledges enable us to plan responsibly and establish a sustainable annual operating budget which is why we ask you to pledge in the Fall for the following fiscal year.
HOW DO I PLEDGE?
Making a pledge is easy. Please click on the pledge button above or HERE to fill out our secure online pledge form. Your personal information will remain strictly confidential.
WHY IS MY PLEDGE IMPORTANT?
Our operating budget is based on the amount of pledges we receive each year. We do not receive financial support from the Diocese or National Episcopal Church.
WHY PLEDGE WHEN I CAN PUT MONEY IN THE COLLECTION PLATE?
We are grateful for the generosity of all guests who donate during the weekly offertory. However, as Members of St. John's Cathedral, we are called to make an annual pledge as stewards of this wonderful church community. Pledging enables us to plan responsibly and establish a sustainable annual budget.
HOW MUCH SHOULD I GIVE?
Giving is a spiritual practice that should be prayerfully considered. Scripture encourages proportionate giving or giving a percentage of one’s income as an act of thanksgiving for the bounty we have received, with the Scriptural tithe (10%) as a goal.
MY INCOME VARIES. HOW DO I CALCULATE HOW MUCH TO PLEDGE?
Your pledge can be your promise of the minimum amount you will commit to the Cathedral. If your income increases, you are welcome to increase your pledge. Please do not let a variable income prevent you from making a pledge.
DO I HAVE TO PAY MY PLEDGE ALL AT ONCE?
No. Many people fulfill their pledge weekly, monthly, or quarterly. Some set up a regular payment schedule by bank transfer or credit card.