Stewardship of Our Church

The theme of the FCCPA 2020-2021 Stewardship Campaign is 120 years of giving – generosity to build on! We have received much from our wonderful church community, and by giving back we can help our church community continue to thrive. We invite you to make your pledge today for the 2020-2021 FCCPA Stewardship Campaign.

In the midst of a world that can feel dizzying and full of turmoil, the presence of a steady and supportive community of faith is a true blessing. Even as so many of our routines have been disrupted, it has been inspiring to see how the continued presence of our worship services, children’s programs, and opportunities for online engagement are a ray of light.

While we confront the challenges of this moment, we can also look back (and forward!) to the many ways our church can foster community and create connections less virtual and more personal. Our summer service trips, and theater, art, and music programs have inspired. Our Pick-A-Parties, men’s and women’s retreats, and family movie nights have connected. Our outreach and community engagement have lifted up those around us. We look forward to bringing these back just as soon as we can!

All of these things require support. Over the past couple months our church leadership has worked diligently and carefully to develop a strong plan for the year ahead that will further the mission of our church, maintain our excellent programming and outreach for all ages and diverse interests, provide appropriate salary increases, and work toward repaying our debt. To meet this budget, we ask all who are able to consider a pledge increase of 4% relative to last year. We understand that in uncertain times, pledging can be difficult. Support at any level will be greatly appreciated.

This budget was developed with our regular operations in mind. However the coronavirus situation plays out, we are committed to maintaining our staff and programs at our customary level, and hope that you will support the church in this endeavor. Of course, we can also assure you that the church leadership will actively monitor the appropriateness of our various programs as things evolve and always seek to use our resources to support our church and community as best we are able in changing circumstances.

A summarized 2020-2021 asking budget, as well a summary of the income, expense, and giving trends, can be found elsewhere on this website. A pledge form with a return-addressed envelope was mailed to you or you can pledge online. Remember that your gifts are kept confidential and our foremost goal is 100% participation. Please share with me or a stewardship committee member any questions or concerns you have.

We encourage you to participate in the life of your church as you are able through both financial support and volunteer activities. Remember that your gifts are kept confidential and our foremost goal is 100% participation. Please share with me or a stewardship committee member any questions or concerns you have.

Thank you for being part of building the steady, supportive, and joyful community of First Congregational Church of Palo Alto.

With deep appreciation,

Loren Baker (Moderator)

Stewardship Committee: Peggy Brinkmann, Greg Evans, Cathy Gauthier, Bing Heckman, Lynn Mitchell, Blake Putney, Grant Sontag

Please Pledge Today!

Thank you for supporting the First Congregational Church of Palo Alto with your treasure, time, and talents!