For too many churches, the budget is just an annual chore that we have to go through. The treasurer and/or the finance committee take charge and plug in numbers. The church board then approves it which is then approved at the annual meeting. For too many churches, the budget is also the annual reminder that we’re failing financially, and we don’t have a plan to turn it around.
If you don’t have a clear vision/mission for your church, that’s the first priority. The vision needs to be clear enough to where you can see how it should affect you financially. The budget then becomes the plan or assignment for each dollar to move us one step closer towards realizing that vision. It’s no longer a chore. It’s a vital part of the work.
Useful Links
- Dakotas United Methodist Foundation: http://dakotasumf.org/
- PathVisor: http://pathvisor.com/
- Dave Ramsey’s Budgeting Advice: https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/how-to-have-a-healthy-church-budget
- Madison UMC’s Mission: https://www.madisonumc.com/about-umc-and-our-mission