Giving Update

Dear Marble Family Member,

Thank you for your generosity and continuing to give so faithfully as we work through our new financial reality. At the end of March 2023, congregant revenue (giving from pledging, plate and special gifts) was $1,118,164. The budget for congregant revenue for the full fiscal year (July 2022-June 2023) is $1,692,796.

We truly hope to be able to end the fiscal year strong with congregant giving matching our budget number, or even expanding to reach the challenge goal of $1,800,000 set forth last fall during the stewardship campaign.

We are especially grateful for those of you who have made special gifts, caught up on your giving or gave a Marble Match for the Easter Offering. We the congregation of Marble are fully responsible to be stewards of our beloved Marble Church and each of us plays a role in keeping Marble a strong place of spiritual growth, life and mission.

On the expense side, our prudent staff have continued to contain spending and do creative ministry with fewer financial resources. Nine months into the fiscal year, we have had expenditures of $2,890,784 from a total budget of $4,259,880 (see our 2022 Annual Report for more detail on the FY2023 budget).

We will continue to update you on the financial situation of Marble, and are grateful for your support and partnership as we journey through this time together.

For Fiscal Year 2023, we have taken several positive steps toward financial independence and sustainability, but we still have challenges.

1. For the first time in decades, we have received no financial appropriation from Collegiate.
2. We have continued to draw less than budgeted from the endowment; so far this fiscal year we have taken $137,000 less than budgeted.
3. Our expenses continue to be down in most departments because of very prudent spending by the Marble staff.
4. We have replenished the endowment to its 2021 level through additional bequests received and reimbursement of the boiler project by the developer of the site next door.

The good news is Marble Collegiate Church will continue to thrive, but we need to be transparent about what is necessary for that to continue. Church leadership is committed to prudently managing the congregation’s financial resources and annual budget, and the congregation is being asked to increase its financial support.

What does this mean for each of us?

• For those unable to offer an increase in annual giving: Thank you. Please know that your gift is cherished. Every dollar is important and appreciated.
• For those who are financially able to increase your annual giving: Thank you. Your increased support is critically important and appreciated. Marble needs your help now.

We ask that you prayerfully consider how you will give of your time, talent, and treasure to support Marble’s ministry in this troubled world. Marble offers the healing, hope, care, and community so many seek.

View past communications: our Annual Report, Letter on the 2023 Budget and Strategic Plan.

Finally, please reflect on these words from 1 Thessalonians 5:18 as you pray for God’s guidance during this season we call “Simply Gratitude”:

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

With much love and gratitude for your prayers and support of our beloved Marble Collegiate Church,

Gratitude Sunday Committee
Dr. Michael Bos, Senior Minister
Rev. Susanah Wade, Co-Chair, Gratitude Sunday Committee
John Hupalo, Co-Chair, Gratitude Sunday Committee
Jenny Chan
Richard Davis
Clay Hale
Karla Hendrick
Monique McKenzie
Michelle McSween
Al Minderman
Christina Morano Keiser
Larry Schafer
Stan Williams

Here's How to Give

• Give Online
• Bring the “Expected 2023 Annual Giving” card to Marble
• Mail the “Expected 2023 Annual Giving” card to Marble
• To contribute your time, reach out to ministry leaders to see how you can be of service. If you need guidance, please contact Kim Sebastian-Ryan and she can help connect you.