Over half spent away from Emmanuel

It has always been our aim to reach a point where the church is in a position to give more money to work outside Emmanuel than we spend on ourselves. We have achieved this goal over the last few years. Since 2002 our support for UK-based Gospel work outside Wimbledon has doubled and our support for work overseas has increased by 50%.

…. but two points for prayer

Thanks for the increase in regular giving of 2.3% over the last year. Please pray that regular giving would continue to increase.

Please pray for wisdom for the church council and various committees in deciding how best to use our resources for God’s glory.

How Emmanuel’s finances differ from other churches

Emmanuel is part of the Church of England but as a “proprietary chapel” we are financially independent. We neither contribute to, nor receive support from, the central funds of the C of E. Thus we are wholly responsible for:

• Paying the salaries of the incumbent, Jonathan Fletcher, the three full-time associate ministers, Ben Shaw, Jane Leggett and Charlie Newcombe, and several part-time pastoral assistants on the Cornhill Training Course
• Meeting the running expenses of Emmanuel, including the costs of the church premises, three houses and two flats
• Our support for Christian work outside Emmanuel

What does the Bible tell us about giving?

As a starter, we can recommend Robin Weekes’ sermon series from autumn 2003 which provided lessons on Christian giving based on 2 Corinthians chapters 8 & 9. You might like to order these talks from the sermon library.

Reviewing your contribution

Those of us who decide to make regular contributions to Emmanuel will receive a letter every few years from Emmanuel encouraging us to consider increasing the amount we give in the light of inflation, salary increases etc. But please feel free to increase your giving at any time! All you need to do is to contact your bank and change your standing order.

Any questions?

If you have any questions about the above, please feel free to talk to Caroline Bayly, the Emmanuel Treasurer.