How do I make a pledge? You can make your pledge online CLICK HERE. Or you can CLICK HERE to download a pledge card. Complete the card and drop it in the offering plate or mail/deliver it to the church office. You can initiate a new pledge at any time.
Our annual Stewardship program takes place in October. At that time, pledge cards are distributed to all members. The completed cards are brought forward during worship on Consecration Sunday in November.
Who will know the amount I pledge? Pledge commitments and pledge payments are recorded by the office secretary. The Chair of the Board of Trustees is also aware of individual pledges.
How much should I pledge? This is a very personal decision, and we suggest that, as a starting point, you reflect on the blessings you have received in life and what ECC means to you.
No really, how much should I pledge? In the Bible, those who choose to “tithe” committed themselves to giving 10% of what they received to God. That meant 10% of their crops were offered in sacrifice, or 10% of salaries were given to the church. In today’s world, with competing interests, 10% to the church is an amount that might create financial stress rather than a cheerful gift to God.
The United Church of Christ suggests proportional giving, whereby you commit yourself to pledging a specific portion of your income. While some members may be capable and comfortable with 10%, others may be more comfortable with something less. The important thing is to make a commitment and give joyfully. The chart below lists proportional giving amounts.
Can I just give what I’m comfortable with each week when the offering is taken? While these gifts are gratefully received, they do not give your church leaders an idea of anticipated support so that they can plan for the year to come. Pledges allow them to do that more confidently.
Are pledges the church’s only source of income? The income portion of our operating budget consists of pledges, investment income, loose plate offerings and miscellaneous income. Currently about 70% of our budget is funded by pledges.
What happens if my financial circumstances change? Your pledge can be increased, decreased or cancelled at any time by contacting the church office. You are not legally required to complete your pledge, and the church will not pursue unfulfilled pledges.
Does the United Church of Christ provide financial support to ECC? Actually it’s the other way around. We support the Connecticut Conference of the UCC and the national UCC each year so that ministry and outreach might be possible in struggling areas of our denomination, our nation and the world.
I am not member of ECC. Am I supposed to pledge? Even if you have not officially joined our congregation, we hope that, by getting to know us and joining us in worship, you would feel comfortable supporting ECC and its ministry. Your pledge is a way to express your endorsement of who we are and what we do.
And if I have additional questions or concerns? You can address your questions to any member of the Stewardship Committee, church lay leader or pastor. Thank you for your prayerful consideration!