Frequently Asked Questions about Pledging
What is a “pledge”?
A pledge is a promise to donate a certain amount of money to the church within the church fiscal year (January 1 to December 31).
Why pledge and how is my pledge used?
Pledge payments are used for the yearly operation of NSUC. Pledges pay for the programs and work of the church including worship, music, outreach and children’s, youth and adult religious education. Pledge income pays for the salaries of the minister and staff and for the operation and maintenance of our facilities.
When members and friends pledge, the church can establish a realistic operating budget for the coming year. Those who pledge receive written acknowledgement of contributions (quarterly statements) to use for their own budgets and tax purposes.
Do I need to be a member to pledge?
Anyone can make an annual pledge to NSUC, member or not. Those who pledge but do not choose formal membership are known as “friends.”
Do I have to pledge to be a member or friend of NSUC?
Everyone is welcome to attend services at NSUC, with no financial obligation. However, we believe that financial support is one of the responsibilities of all congregants, if they are able. We strongly encourage you to live your values by making a pledge consistent with your individual circumstances.
In keeping with the guidelines of the Canadian Unitarian Council we ask individuals to pledge 3% of their gross annual income. By way of example, a $1,500 pledge represents 3% of a $50,000 annual gross income.
Generally a “contribution of record” is required to maintain your membership at NSUC. However, if your financial situation precludes you from making a contribution, you may confidentially obtain a waiver. Please speak to the minister.
When should I pledge?
Any time is fine, but the best time to pledge is during the fall canvass. New members can expect a call from a canvasser to discuss your pledging intentions.
Will I receive a bill or statement?
It would be most convenient if, when you pledge, you could provide the church with 12 post-dated cheques. Regardless of how you pay your pledge, you will receive a quarterly statement indicating how much you have pledged for the year and how much of that pledge has been received.
However, if you have paid your pledge in full and have no other contributions during the quarter, no statement will be sent. Calendar year statements are sent out in January for tax purposes.
How does the pledge relate to the weekly collection during Sunday services?
Some people fulfill (or even make) their pledge by putting a cheque or cash in the weekly collection plate in an envelope marked “pledge”; or you can write this on the memo line of a cheque. Other funds collected during the services (cheques not marked “pledge” or undesignated cash) are donated to selected beneficent causes and organizations outside the church; each month we support a particular organization chosen by our Social Responsibility Committee for our support.
Pledges are very important relative to the weekly collection because the commitment you make at the beginning of the church year allows us to plan, whereas weekly donations do not support the work of this church, but rather good works outside our church.
