Interim Dean and Priest-in-Charge's Note
Dealing with the muck of life is essential to care for all of life and love, as well as caring for a home; all of it requires taking care of business. As we begin a new year, we must do the same. One can imagine Mary and Joseph creating a sacred space in a stable long ago.
I am pleased to share that we are 85% towards achieving our pledging goal again this year – which is about where we were this time last year. As of last week, 58 members have pledged. The mode and median gift are $1,200, and average gift is $2,957. The distribution is almost a perfect normal curve, with a few very generous souls leading the way. The range is wide from a pledge of $50 to a pledge of $75k. On the happiest of notes: we achieved our pledge goal last year, and nearly everyone at all levels of giving are giving more. The strength of our cathedral church is growing, thanks be to God.
We were successful in growing our revenue last year, but unfortunately income from our properties fell short – both in terms of the market rate values and demand of the properties we lease, and use of our beautiful cathedral for film and events. Despite this setback, last year you achieved record high giving in comparison to the past four years. We will need to adjust our spending by tightening up and making a few difficult decisions; however, after, the future of St. John’s Cathedral will be bright. Cutbacks will be necessary unless a few more generous souls give more. We have the capacity to make all things possible.
I am working on a budget that will get you through the construction phase of both the Flower Project and Fig Project, and into a gorgeous new space. Once the Fig Project is finished, you will also have the income to purchase what you need, with money to spare.
Being church is never about taking without giving. In the future there will be enough to make wise decisions about ministries that will allow the light of Christ to shine brightly in Los Angeles and beyond. There will also be enough to care for our neighbors in old ways and new, and in ways that we have yet to imagine.
In the meantime, please remember and give thanks to our wonderful, and devoted staff who work hard daily to care for your cathedral home. When you give, please think about the people you support, and the beautiful church and music entrusted into our care. Caring for each other requires dealing with the muck of life, such as finances, and the ordering our lives in such a way that allows us to care for each other. Thank you for caring deeply and being the church.
With love and gratitude,
Anne+
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