April 20, 2006

"Asking and Thanking"

I recently heard a startling statistic. As recently as 1995, 55% of all charitable giving went to churches. But in the past 10 years, that percentage has dropped to 35%. When I asked "Why?" to the firm which presented those numbers, I was told, "Because churches don't do a good job of asking or thanking their contributors." Many other non-profit groups are doing a lot of asking and thanking -- my mailbox is bombarded with contacts from groups like Red Cross, alumni associations, hospitals, and other charities. When I contribute to any of those requests, I can count on receiving lots of notes of appreciation -- and even more requests for my gifts.

We in the church, of all places, should do a better of job of both asking and thanking people.

So, let me start that process by THANKING all of the United Methodists in Indiana for your generosity. The recent reports from our financial groups in each conference have been very encouraging. The CFA (Council on Finance and Administration) in South Indiana reports that income is up over $200,000 compared to this time last year -- and that is the best in 3 years. As the South Conference considers moving toward a Tithe model for 2007 (final decisions on that will be voted at Annual Conference in June), I hope that we can continue this good trend of support.

Meanwhile the CFA of North Conference reports that their Tithing model started off very slowly -- most local churches did what they were told, they waited until the end of January to send in 10%, and so that meant almost no income in January. However, the most recent report is that after such a slow start income for 2006 is now virtually even with that same time period in 2005. That bodes well for the rest of the year as the tithing process grows. Yes, there are some rough edges still to be worked out in the tithing model (especially we have learned that most local church treasurers wait to receive some sort of statement), but the results are encouraging.

So, let me say a very hearty "Thank you" for your generosity.

Let me also be sure to ASK you to continue to grow in your personal stewardship, moving toward a tithe if you are not there yet, and let me also ask each local church to keep growing in your support of our missions, our special offerings, and our connectional ministries.

God has richly blessed the United Methodist people of Indiana, and we all have lots of opportunities to give and to share those blessings. Let me remind you that your own local United Methodist Church is the place to start with your generosity.

from Bishop Michael J. Coyner

Indiana Area of the United Methodist Church
"Making a Difference ... in Indiana
and around the world"

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