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On Sunday, November 16, Saint Barnabas held a Financial Stewardship meeting to reflect on our shared mission and financial health. The conversation centered on transparency, sustainability, and faithful planning for the future. Financial stewardship isn’t just about balancing numbers—it’s about sustaining the mission that shapes lives. As we enter this season, we invite you to consider how you might respond.

Our goal is not simply meeting a budget—it’s 100% participation in God’s mission. Click to watch the video of the forum below to be informed and get in the spirit of supporting our parish and community.

Where we stand today

Over the past six years, we’ve seen average Sunday attendance fluctuate and the number of pledging households decline, even as the average pledge per household has increased. This tells a story of deepening individual commitment—but also a challenge for sustaining our shared life.

    • Recurring Income:
      Pledge and plate contributions have slipped from $1.8M in 2019 to $1.7M in 2024.
    • Expenses:
      Clergy and staff costs have risen by 12%, creating a gap between income and expenses.
    • Reserves:
      We’ve relied heavily on Vestry funds to bridge this gap, a trend that is not sustainable.

The Good News

Despite these challenges, there are bright spots:

      • Ministries like Family Promise, music programs, and contemplative offerings continue to thrive.
      • Our foundation endowment (about $4M) provides stability, though most funds are restricted.
      • Leadership and staff have already taken bold steps to reduce costs, operating 40–70% under budget in some areas.

What’s Next?

We’re committed to closing the gap and planning for growth:

        • Budget Adjustments: Personnel reductions and operational efficiencies will save $302K annually starting in 2026.
        • Energy & Efficiency: LED lighting, AC automation, and vendor renegotiations are reducing overhead.
        • Communications Audit: We’re investing in telling our story better—because growth solves challenges.

How You Can Help

Financial stewardship is about more than balancing a budget—it’s about sustaining the mission that shapes lives. As we approach Gratitude Sunday, we invite you to:

✅ Make or increase your pledge
✅ Offer your time and talent to support ministries and operations
✅ Pray and discern how you can help us continue saying “yes” to God’s call

Our goal isn’t just 100% pledge participation—it’s 100% participation in God’s mission.

About Saint Barnabas

Welcome to www.saintbarnabas.org, our church community’s online expression of our life and mission. If you are looking for a place that feels like home, a place where friends remember your name and become excited when they see you across the patio, a place where members share the value of deep, life-changing faith in Jesus, you’ve come to the right place. All are welcome.