Preparing St. John’s 2026 Budget

The fall season is upon us, and with it comes the time to prepare St. John’s budget for 2026 — the Finance Committee’s largest responsibility of the year. Beginning in October, the committee will meet several times to review this year’s spending patterns and make adjustments for the year ahead.

As always, we remind ourselves that the budget is a plan, not a promise. We do our best to anticipate income and expenses while remaining flexible to changes that may arise. Some of the key questions we consider include:

• How accurate was our 2025 budget compared to actual spending? Do adjustments need to be made? Are there opportunities to reduce expenses?
• Have any Boards updated their plans or projects that would affect expenses?
• Are there new initiatives that need funding, such as our upcoming 150-year celebration?
• Are there any ongoing initiatives that are no longer in scope?
• What are the Conference recommendations for pastor salaries, and can we meet them?
• What changes in benefit costs must be included?
• How has giving to current expenses compared with expectations? Are we seeing a shift toward Capital or Benevolence giving? What is a reasonable goal for 2026 giving?
• How have our investments performed, and what percentage drawdown from the 3Q balance feels appropriate?

In recent years, budgeting has been especially challenging as our staff has continued to change. This year brings similar challenges — we still have positions to fill — but also new opportunities. With a new senior pastor in place, we can begin thinking about fresh programs to support both our congregation and the wider community. We will plan carefully for these possibilities, knowing that circumstances may evolve throughout the year.

Key Dates for the 2026 Budget Process

• Monday, Nov 10: Presentation of budget to Council
• Sunday, Nov 16: Budget information handout available for pickup
• Sunday, Nov 23: Budget hearing
• Sunday, Dec 7: Congregational vote

If you have questions or comments about the budgeting process, please reach out to any member of the Finance Committee:

Chair: Grace Bruen
Board Representatives: Gayle George, Steve Hendricks, Judy Leslie, Charles Sisian
Stewardship Representative: Liz Rivett
At-Large Members: Susan Hendricks, (open position)

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