Presence Offering FAQs
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHY A SPECIAL OFFERING?
As part of God’s plan to grow the faith of the people in His church, He calls us to sacrificial giving from time to time. This special offering is an opportunity for us to grow in our faith, make a difference in the lives of people around the world, and prepare us for what God wants to do through our church in 2012.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE REGULAR OFFERING AND THIS SPECIAL OFFERING?
The regular Connection Church offering is the proportional amount (the full tithe of 10%) that we set apart and give throughout the year. From time to time there are opportunities to give in a sacrificial way. The Presence Offering is one of those sacrificial occasions that stretch us to grow in our faith. The special offering should be over and above what you regularly give.
HOW MUCH SHOULD I GIVE?
Please prayerfully consider a sacrificial gift that will stretch your faith. The precise amount you give is between you and God. One suggested way to give is to make this your largest Christmas gift this year. The issue is not equal giving but equal sacrifice. What amount can you give that will stretch your faith?
WHEN SHOULD I GIVE?
The best time to give will be in December. Please pray about making your best gift during this month. However, you can continue to give through January 2012. Please use the Presence Offering envelopes or include a note designating that your gift is for the Presence Offering. For those who would like to make special arrangements to give an early 2012 gift to the Presence Offering simply contact our office via email (kristi@theconnectionchurch.org) or call 512.295.1740.
ARE MY GIFTS TAX-DEDUCTIBLE?
All gifts to The Connection Church, whether via the regular offering or this special offering, are completely tax-deductible. Be sure your gift arrives at our office before Dec 31, 2011 to ensure that it can be applied to your 2011 Giving Statement. Please be sure to include your name and address when you give so that a receipt can be sent to you in early 2011 for your tax preparation. You are not required to utilize a tax-deduction for your gift, but it is available for all gifts.
HOW WILL I KNOW WHAT WE RECEIVED IN THIS OFFERING?
Please pray for God’s guidance as we all give sacrificially. You will be updated on our giving progress through our e-news, website, and during the Sunday services. Reaching this goal will be a celebration of what we can do together as we stretch our faith under God’s leadership.
Have additional questions? Please contact Kristi West in The Connection Church office at kristi@theconnectionchurch.org or call 512.295.1740.