As part of our regular practice, we wanted to give you a quick snapshot of where we stand after the first quarter of our fiscal year. We typically give bigger updates halfway through the year and at year-end, but we like to keep you in the loop along the way, especially when many of you ask, "How are we doing?"
The reason we share financial updates is twofold: First, because Jesus taught us that where our money goes, our hearts follow. It’s a great opportunity for each of us to reflect on where we’re trusting Him with our resources. Second, we’re committed to using what God has given us to reach as many people as possible and care for one another, both locally and globally.
So, how are we doing? We set a budget of just under $4 million for this fiscal year (July through June), and in this first quarter, we've raised $853,000, which includes $788,000 from our One Fund and an additional $65,000 in other income. Not bad for a quarter that typically sees lower giving during the summer months!
While we've spent a bit more than we’ve brought in—about $880,000 in total expenses—we’re optimistic. Historically, our second quarter, especially around November and December, is when we see the most giving. So, we’re excited to see what’s ahead!
By the way, 58% of our giving this quarter came from those who give monthly. A huge thank you to those consistent givers—you’re making a tremendous impact!
We also wanted to highlight Heart of the City. The number of people we’re able to help through this outreach has tripled since last year, and we’ve doubled the amount of income provided for assistance. That’s over 100 families per month that we’re reaching with tangible help, and most importantly, the love of Christ. This growth is exactly what we envisioned when we began this ministry, and it's incredible to see God working through it.
As we continue to grow, our goal is 100% participation. Whether it’s through prayer, giving, or volunteering, every bit of involvement counts and helps us fulfill the mission God has given us.
Thank you for being part of this journey, for your generosity, and for your prayers. Let’s keep growing together and making an impact for His Kingdom.
Kingdom Investment
July 28, 2024 • Stacy Carter
This past year has been an incredible journey of faith, growth, and community impact.
As we reflect on the many ways God has worked through us, it’s clear that we have so much to celebrate and be thankful for. Here are some of the highlights that showcase the power and love of God in our midst.
There's a lot of Kingdom work we've invested in this last year, and our CFO, Stacy has done a phenomenal job with our leadership team. We have many things to celebrate and rejoice over!
A Year of Transformations and New Beginnings
Taste of Grace: 110 people attended this event, fostering connections and welcoming new members into our community.
Baptisms: Over 100 baptisms took place, not just within our church but in various retreats, camps, and home groups, symbolizing renewed faith and commitment.
New Families: 241 new families joined Grace Kids, bringing fresh energy and excitement to our children’s ministry.
Youth and Adult Engagement: Our youth and adult groups have seen remarkable growth, with youth involvement doubling and adult participation in discipleship groups reaching 768 members.
Heartfelt Outreach and Local Impact
The Heart Of The City: This initiative has tripled its reach in the last two years, impacting numerous families with nearly 1,000 volunteer hours and over $122,000 in financial support.
School and Holiday Support: Through initiatives like Gearing Up For School, Joy Drive, and Christmas parties for CityTeam, we’ve provided essential support and heartfelt moments of joy for many in need.
CoffeeHouse Ministry: Serving around 1,100 people monthly, our Coffeehouse has become a haven of peace and connection, welcoming both believers and non-believers alike.
Global Partnerships and Mission Work
Living Water and Africa New Life: Through these partnerships, we’ve supported essential missions trips and the sponsorship of 578 children, ensuring they receive education, food, and healthcare.
Supporting Missionaries: We’ve backed numerous missionaries, from local university outreach to international media ministries, expanding our reach and impact across the globe.
Financial Stewardship and Community Support
Generous Giving: With a total income of over $3.6 million, we’ve managed our resources prudently, ensuring that every dollar is used effectively to support our ministries and outreach programs.
Debt Reduction: We’ve paid off $500,000 of our long-term debt, positioning ourselves for continued growth and impact.
A Call to Action
We are here for the Kingdom of God, and when His Kingdom breaks through, we celebrate every victory. We invite you to join us in this mission, to be a provision to the broken and a light in the darkness.
Let's Stand Together
As we reflect on the past year and look forward to the future, let's remember our mission. Whether you're a student, teacher, government worker, stay-at-home parent, or business professional, you are called to carry the Kingdom of Heaven into the world. Let us represent a God who is good, gracious, and loving in all that we do.
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Your support, prayers, and participation make all the difference. Let's continue to partner with Jesus, bringing hope, grace, and salvation to those around us.
