OKUMC SPIRIT IN ACTION | 7
Second Mile Pledges: Q&A WHAT
is it?
The pledge system is a way for churches to choose which ministries to support financially through their apportionments. It’s not really new. Churches have already been supporting these historically-connected ministries - Circle of Care, Cookson Hills, Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministries, Neighborhood Service Organization, Restore Hope, and Skyline Urban Ministry - through voluntary apportionments. This system simply puts the church into the driver’s
WHY
seat and allows them to choose which program(s) they would like to directly support. After election, pledges will be added to churches’ apportionment statements; the conference office will serve as a conduit and allow churches to pool their resources to support these vital ministries. Churches can raise these funds with special offering days (like Mother’s Day or Easter); hold small group fundraisers; or invite the organization to send speakers.
are we doing it?
Each local church has leaders who know best which ministries its members are most enthusiastic about supporting. Where one church might prefer to serve children, another may prefer homeless adults as a ministry. While there is no right or wrong answer for which organization to support, each organization can
HOW
directly reach churches with their message, and churches can have closer relationships with the organizations they serve. This allows the organizations to be supported by local churches rather than a denominational body. The pledge system allows the supported organizations to budget for expected gifts.
(and when) do we pledge?
Churches can choose how to make their pledges. Their yearly apportionment form has a suggested amount tailored to their giving history. Church leaders can change those amounts. The apportionment form has a tear-off section which can be mailed in, or they can go online here to make those designations. The six organizations will now have the capacity to
reach out directly to churches and cultivate working relationships with their members. The pledge system will be available through January, but churches are encouraged to complete it before Dec. 15. If you have any questions, please reach out to Derrek Belase at dbelase@okumc.org.
