Friends and Members of MBCC,
Cutting to the chase, as many of you know, like many places in the world, we are having to adjust to recent economic realities and struggles. Below is a recap for those that were not able to attend the congregational meeting on Sunday. Keeping in mind the energy and movement that has taken place where over the past few months in our new space, there is cause to be optimistic about our future, while at the same time being responsible with the funds that you all have given to the ministry.
A little recap of the meeting . . .
This past Sunday we had a congregational meeting to discuss our year-to-date finances and budget forecasting for the year. MBCC's budget is available at [2009 MBCC INCOME and EXPENSE]. During our conversation, we were reminded that our congregation has faced tough times financially before. We were also reminded that God is faithful, God does miracles, and that we should pray for the following situation.
A recap of where we stand financially . . .
Big Picture
From a cash flow perspective, we started off the year with about $17,000. We now have around $9,000 in cash. In terms of income and expenses, at the end of April, we were at a deficit of $8,389. This deficit arose because, although our expenses are coming in under budget, our income is also coming in well under what we had budgeted. The major shortfall in our income comes from offering. At the end of April we had hoped to receive around $40,000. Instead, we have received under $25,000. Roughly speaking, every week, we are collecting about $1000 less than we had anticipated receiving.
How Did We Get Here?
Two reasons: (1) 2009 has been a less than stellar year for the global economy and (2) we moved. When we created the budget for 2009, we were operating based on income figures from past years. This has been a tough year for markets worldwide and for many people in our congregation. In the process of relocating to Ocean Avenue and switching to an evening service, some people who had been attending our church did not make the move with us. Both of these factors had an impact on our offering income, which we haven't been able to recoup.
Where Do We Go Now?
If you have not yet pledged to MBCC but plan to start giving, plan to start giving later in the year, or plan to increase your giving, it would really help us to know about your plans so we can factor them into our budget. If you have done so already, please consider giving through our secure online service [eGive], fill out a pledge card next time you are at church or e-mail Katina with your plan.
Also, Session is meeting on May 19 to take stock of our situation and re-budget. If you have feedback, ideas, concerns, please, e-mail Katina. Session will discuss your insight and your thoughts would be very much appreciated!
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