What Does It Mean to Be a Christian Steward?
A starting place is the recognition that God has invited us to be responsible for our lives and resources. With God in our lives, we are better stewards in the world.
We are all stewards of some possessions and influence. The question is: “What kind of steward of our resources are we?
Making Your Pledge
Each year, the people of Walnut Creek United Methodist Church (WCUMC) are asked to make a stewardship pledge for the upcoming calendar year. Your pledge is a one-year financial commitment to support the ministry within our congregation, to the larger United Methodist Church, and to the world. A pledge made in connection with the current stewardship drive is to be paid by December 31, 2025. You can make your pledge by filling out our online pledge card.
What is an Appropriate Pledge Amount?
The amount of one’s stewardship pledge is a personal, spiritual decision. The biblical concept of tithing (contributing 10% of one’s income to the church and other worthy organizations) is a standard to prayerfully consider. Some may be able to equal or exceed the tithing level. Others will pledge at a lower level. All pledge contributions, regardless of the amount, are gratefully received as an expression of your commitment.
Giving Percentage Guideline
| Annual Income | 3% | 5% | 7% | 10% | 12% |
| $250,000 | $7,500 | $12,500 | $17,500 | $25,000 | $30,000 |
| $200,000 | $6,000 | $10,000 | $14,000 | $20,000 | $24,000 |
| $150,000 | $4,500 | $7,500 | $10,500 | $15,000 | $18,000 |
| $100,000 | $3,000 | $5,000 | $7,000 | $10,000 | $12,000 |
| $50,000 | $1,500 | $2,500 | $3,500 | $5,000 | $6,000 |
| $30,000 | $900 | $1,500 | $2,100 | $3,000 | $3,600 |
Why are Pledges Important?
Pledges are essential to WCUMC’s planning process. Each year, committees submit their goals and the estimated cost to achieve them. Your Finance Committee will take these estimates and start to build our budget. Once 2025 pledges are received, our Church Council will finalize the budget.
What is the Conference Tithe?
The Conference Tithe is our denomination giving to the United Methodist Church. It supports ministries that reach beyond our local church. For example, through our Conference tithe, we support summer camps and youth programs that affect hundreds of lives in the California-Nevada Conference and beyond. Our Conference Tithe also supports other programs like promoting health and clean water throughout the developing world.
How Many Households Give?
Typically, around one hundred local households give each year. More online members are giving regularly as well.
How are Pledge Donations Paid?
People fulfill their pledge in the manner that best meets their circumstances. One may give weekly, monthly, quarterly, or annually via cash, checks, or automatic bank withdrawal. You can also donate online. Pledges may also be paid with securities. Should circumstances change, the pledge can be increased or decreased.
How are Pledges Submitted and What is the Time Frame?
First, you need to complete your online pledge card. Then upon receipt of your pledge, you will be notified by our Financial Secretary. During our worship service on November 17th, 2024, we will consecrate those gifts given for 2025. Be Blessed! And thank you for supporting the Walnut Creek United Methodist Church!