Finance Committee

Committee function

This committee shall prepare a draft budget for the succeeding year.  The budget shall include the congregation’s share in support of the wider ministry being carried on in its behalf by the synod and the ELCA.

2007-2008 Chair Frank Leonard, Jim Monroe (Council Liaison)

The Finance Committee is also responsible for record keeping of contributions to the church, and issuance of quarterly statements to church members.  This committee also tracks attendance at worship services, and communion  participation of the members of the congregation as required by the constitution.  This committee also monitors gifts given to the church by outside groups who might use our facilities, such as the class rooms, fellowship hall, kitchen and the Omena House.

Funds

Good Samaritan Fund
This is the pastors discretionary fund used to help those in need who come to our church asking for assistance of one kind or another.

Memorial Fund
You may contribute to this fund at any time. Monetary gifts are made in honor or memory of a loved one. Gifts may be so designated and sent to the church office or placed in the offering plate.

Endowment Fund
This fund is generally available for those you would like to leave a legacy with Bethlehem Lutheran through remembering the church in their wills and trusts. It is used as needed for the mission of the church.

Missions and World Hunger
This is our opportunity as Christians to give to specific world wide missions that will assist those in our world who have nothing. It also is used to bring the good news of Jesus to those where the Word of God is not present.

Scholarship Fund
Contributions to the fund assist members of Bethlehem in their endeavors while studying at a Lutheran College or Seminary. In addition a scholarship fund has been set up with Trinity Lutheran Seminary for seminary students from this area.

Library Fund
This fund is for financial contributions for the ongoing purchase and maintenance of our Church Library.

Building Fund Air Conditioning Fund
These monies are for the ongoing upkeep of the church.

From the December Bethlehem Star

Finance Committee met Nov 14. They reviewed and approved minutes from the previous meeting; reviewed the financial statement

for the month of October. Noted: we are making budget because we do not have a full program staff (Youth & Family Ministry person).

A report was made of pledges received to date. It is anticipated that we will receive $285,600 (in pledges) & $$87,000 in non pledged

for 2007-for a total of $372,600. This is down from 2006.

The budget was reviewed and readied for Council. Discussion took place concerning the financial situation.