I have spent more time pondering the budget crisis. If I am redundant, please forgive me.
The shepherd and I moved here a year ago. We took a pay cut in spending power. We also have a business that took a serious financial hit through the move. Additionally, our cost of doing business went up dramatically because we had been more centrally located and shipping rates are based on zones.
Ed was the elder talking to the shepherd about pay and benefits. Ed offered the shepherd less than the elders as a whole had agreed upon. Because we felt God was calling us here, we came despite the pay cut. Ed also promised a review of the salary to be done in six months.
Now that we are here, it has become clear there is a budget crisis. There is a shortfall of several thousand dollars a month. There are no cash reserves. There is less than a week’s offering in the bank.
The elder in charge of finances was at the last budget meeting. He interjected that the last time the church was in such a predicament, the church just cut salaries 10% across the board. The elders have not spoken to the congregation about any of the money. They have not communicated a vision. They have failed to lead. Perhaps instead of threatening my ability to care for my family, the elders should communicate a vision worth supporting. I know for every percentage of pay cut, I will encourage the shepherd to cut time spent working at the church.
People give when they trust leadership and the vision. Obviously there is a lack of trust in the leadership and vision. For my children to suffer for the elders’ lack of communication is wrong. The shepherd and I can make up for the funds if the Shepherd has more time. If the church shows no more loyalty to us, why should we sacrifice for them?