FINANCIAL PLANNING 2026

God continues to richly bless our church family, and your generosity is truly commendable. The leadership remains committed to being faithful stewards of the many blessings He has given us.


Each year, the Shepherds ask the Financial Planning Team to prepare a budget to guide the funding of MacArthur Park’s ministries. After gathering requests from ministry leaders, the team presents a proposed plan to the Shepherds for review and approval.


A vital part of this process is asking every MacArthur Park family to prayerfully consider their giving for the coming year. For more than 35 years, this has helped us manage our resources wisely. The Shepherds have committed that our annual budget will be based on the total amount communicated through Family Planning Cards.


In preparation for the 2026 financial plan, each family is asked to complete a confidential Financial Planning Card by October 19, 2025. These cards reflect your family’s intended weekly contribution for the coming year.


We understand that some families may be able to give more and others less, but every card makes a difference in helping us plan responsibly. No one monitors individual giving; the information is used only for planning purposes.


We hope your family will embrace this opportunity for financial stewardship by participating in the planning process. If you have questions, please feel free to speak with any Shepherd.


Financial planning information

Is the Financial Planning Card a vow, promise, pledge, or commitment to contribute the designated amount?
No. It is a plan, not a commitment. Circumstances change—income and expenses rise and fall. The planned amount is simply a good-faith estimate of giving for the coming year.


Is this practice scriptural?
Yes. Jesus taught the principle of “counting the cost” before undertaking an endeavor (Luke 14:28–32). In the same way, our congregation considers its budget based on what members intend to give.


Didn’t Jesus teach against being concerned about the future?
Jesus warned against worry and anxiety, not planning. As noted above, He also taught about counting the cost. Planning wisely is not the same as worrying about the future.


Why are you pushing for money?
Leadership is not pushing for money but for participation. As Scripture implies, we can only “build” what funds allow.  If members choose not to participate but later give, we cannot budget effectively, and ministry efforts are limited.


Should I feel guilty if I cannot meet the amount I planned?
No. Life changes and things happen. 


Are Financial Planning Cards really confidential?
Yes. Elders know who has participated, but only a finance elder sees amounts. These figures are not shared with other elders or anyone else.


Is this the best way to manage church funds?
Yes. Over the past three decades, this method has provided realistic budgets without the need to ask for additional funds mid-year. Many members with experience in other churches affirm the effectiveness of this planning approach.


What if I can’t or don’t want to participate?
Leadership understands different circumstances. Members are still encouraged to take part by completing a card with a blank dollar amount. 


Why is it important for your family to participate in the planning process?
As part of the MacArthur Park church family, it takes every member working together—including in financial stewardship—to grow in ministry and service. Your family’s participation is vital.


What if I’m not sure how much to put on the card?
The amount is between you and God. Prayerfully consider how He has blessed your family and how you can bless others. Simply write what you believe you can give per week in 2026. It is okay to put a small amount—or even “$0”—if you cannot give right now. We still encourage participation and pray your situation changes.


What if my income changes?
Life happens. You may be able to give more or less than planned. Contributions are not individually monitored against your card.


Why does the budget have to be balanced with the total of the Financial Planning Cards?
This ensures good stewardship. Under the guidance and approval of the Elders, the Financial Planning Team sets a plan that funds ministry requests without exceeding the total of the cards received.


Who serves on the Financial Planning Team?

  • Chairman: Shayne West
  • Members: Glen Gray, Dave Reynolds, Sam Wells, Kevin Haley, Lynn Harlow, Brett Perkins, Alan Babcock, and Richard Shough


Can I give my contribution through automatic bank debit?
Yes. Many families use ACH debit for weekly or monthly giving. Forms are available in the church office and Family Room.  


Can I give electronically?
Yes. Use our MAC-APP or website (www.macarthurchurch.org). You can give anytime or set up recurring donations.