Each year in the month of March, our church goes through a period of reflection and renewal, in preparation for the start of its new fiscal year on April 1.
As a congregational church, we are self-governing and support ourselves financially. That means we each keep our church community going by contributing our time, talent and funds. The Annual Appeal is our name for the process of supplying information and awareness which help raise the funds needed for the ongoing operations of First Parish.
Particularly important this year is hiring a leader for our Faith Exploration programs for children, youth and families!
How does the Annual Appeal work?
We begin with a sermon this Sunday by Reverend Sophia focused on this topic, followed by social gatherings and the sharing of information. For gatherings, this year there will be nine Circle Suppers! These are potluck dinners (including one or two lunches) that provide an opportunity to share experiences in the church and consider how you can support the church. A sign-up sheet will be circulated soon. In addition, a one-to-one meeting with a member of the Giving Committee can be arranged.
The theme this year is “Lead with Love”, inspiring as each of us consider for ourselves ways the First Parish community brings meaning to our lives and how we might contribute.
Information about church finances will be available via our Annual Appeal brochure and on the FPW website. We are also planning a presentation after church on March 2nd that will include details on plans to hire a leader for Faith Exploration along with the annual budget. In the calendar below we highlight several events.
Remember, in this church no one tells us how much to contribute. We each decide for ourselves what to pledge (or “promise” to contribute) during the coming church year which runs from April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026. Pledges both large and small account for more than half of the church operating budget. Broad participation of members & friends is not only democratic, it’s the key to maintaining healthy church finances.
Annual Appeal Calendar
- Sunday, Feb. 23 – Stewardship Sunday Service
- Saturday, March 1 – Circle ‘Supper’ at FPW – 12:30-2:30pm – with childcare
- Sunday, March 2 – Faith Exploration and Budget information – after church service
- Friday, March 7 – Circle Supper at FPW – 6-8pm – with childcare
- Other dates in March – More Circle Suppers – Information soon
- Sunday, March 31 – Official Pledge Period ends
- Monday, April 1 – New Church Year begins
- Saturday, April13 – Annual Meeting – after church service
Sincerely,
The FPW Giving Committee
John Portz
Michael Collins
Clint Sours
Bob Shay
Larry Hanawalt
Jean Merkl-Gorman