Stewardship Drive 2026-27

Dear Starr King Members and Friends,

 

Last fall, one of our services involved everyone, including the children, receiving money to distribute somewhere in our community where it would be unexpected and bring joy. To the surprise of many of us, it brought us joy to distribute this small gift as we lived our mission to cultivate more love in the world.

 

Our Fellowship is sustained by our generosity as members and friends. The joy and community we experience is because we provide the financial contributions to pay our minister and staff, fund our Sunday services, maintain our building, support our Plymouth community, and contribute our fair share to the UUA.

 

This year, our Finance Committee is asking us to raise $205,000 through our pledges. This is less than our budget for the 2026-27 budget year, but our leadership recognizes that these are uncertain times which pose financial challenges for individuals and families. The shortfall will be made up from past accumulated surpluses in a financial reserve and a generous gift that supports a key budget item for several years.

 

We need an overall increase of 4% over last year’s giving to reach our goal. We can achieve our $205,000 budget goal if enough members and friends who have not previously pledged are able to pledge this year, and those who can do more are able to increase their pledge by 4% or more. 

 

Those newer to our community and pledging for the first time can consult the giving guidelines in the Stewardship packet. The packet includes a letter from Reverend Linda Barnes, a review of our financial data, and the pledge form for the 2026-2027 budget year. We will also send you a brief email with information on what you pledged last year.

 

Last year your pledges to our stewardship campaign provided essential support for our Fellowship. We hope you will reflect on the value of our community to you as you consider your pledge for the coming year. 

 

In these difficult and complex times, being together for worship and fellowship brings resilience, comfort, and wisdom as well as the opportunity to spread more love in the world.

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With love and gratitude, your Stewardship Committee,

 

Mary Hazelton, Chair                      

Mary MacIntosh                   

Andrea Sutherland

Susan C. Scrimshaw                       

Nancy Chaddock                   

Bob Gannett