All is Well™: Diocese of New Jersey Totally Freaking Out over Finances

from Stand Firm by Greg Griffith

Dear Friends in Christ,

You will find below an urgent message from the Diocesan Council and the Finance and Budget Committee of the Diocese of New Jersey.

This appeal arose out of the very sobering results of the annual appeal to congregations for financial support of our diocesan mission. With gratitude for all of the pledges that have been received thus far, and with respect for the fact that many churches have fewer financial resources available, I am, nevertheless, asking you to do the following:

*Read the Council's message and discuss it with congregational leaders in the coming week.

*Reconsider your congregation's 2012 Fair Share Pledge and, where possible, increase your 2012 Pledge.

*Renew your commitment to work, pray and give for the mission of the wider Church.

Please note that the Council and I are committed to a review of the current Fair Share Pledge system in the coming year. We will see to it that a report with recommendations will be presented to the 2013 Diocesan Convention. The financial health of our Diocese will be of interest as the Episcopal Election Committee prepares for the election of the 12th Bishop of New Jersey in 2013.

I write with gratitude for you and for all you do in the service of our blessed Lord and for the well-being of our beloved Episcopal Church. God is good; all the time. At all times and in all places, then, let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

Faithfully yours, in Christ,
+George