As we have shared in previous staff meetings, all of our resources belong to God. We are temporary stewards of the generosity and sacrifice of our congregation, and we carry a sacred responsibility to manage those resources with integrity, discipline, and transparency.

Recently the lines regarding acceptable expenditures have become blurred. For the sake of clarity we need to reiterate and tighten our existing guidelines.

Church-issued credit cards and reimbursement requests are to be used strictly for ministry-related expenses that directly support your approved budget and programming. Materials, curriculum, and ministry supplies fall within this category and should follow the procedures we have already established. However, expenses for meals, coffee, snacks, gifts and other treats for yourself, our staff or volunteers are not acceptable. This includes buying said items as a gesture of appreciation or fellowship. While the heart behind those actions is generous and kind, they are not an appropriate use of church funds.

If you would like to show appreciation to a fellow staff member or volunteer you are welcome to do so personally. A handwritten note, a text message, a word of encouragement, or a gesture paid for out of your own pocket are meaningful and appropriate ways to express gratitude.

For perspective, over the past twenty years, I have personally paid for any meals or coffee with members or staff. That has been my practice, and it reflects the standard we are asking everyone to uphold.

We value you and appreciate the work you do. We trust you understand and agree that it’s our responsibility to steward the church’s finances carefully and consistently. If you have any questions about a specific expense before making it, please ask in advance. We would much rather clarify beforehand than address repayment afterward.

Going forward, all check requests need to be approved and signed by your Supervisor, and all credit card purchases will be reviewed by the Business Office and/or your supervisor and any concerns will be addressed individually. The reiteration of these guidelines is for your protection and to ensure a property system of checks and balances.

Thank you for your faithfulness in how we steward what God has entrusted to this church.

Pastor Jeff