Stewardship at Christ Clarion

Jesus said, “Give, and it will be given to you… for with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." 

At Christ Clarion, we translate this into “Called out in fellowship for service.”  Our church is the base from which members and friends attend to each others’ spiritual and physical needs, and address Christ’s call to serve those who are hurting, near and far away.  The congregation’s stewardship commitment makes it possible to staff and maintain the facility, and support our worship, pastoral care, Christian education, and mission functions.  Since Christ Clarion has no endowment fund, members’ annual contributions fund all these activities each year.

We believe that the church – those people who follow Christ - is the body of Christ.  It exists because people are called to continue proclaiming and living the message of Christ.  Although Christ Clarion is a tiny part of the worldwide church, it is our part.  Over the years, Christ Clarion’s members and friends have given our church a high priority in their lives.   In addition to receiving the blessings of living within the church family, they have kept the church strong by contributing generously. 

Pledges of Cash

Members satisfy their pledges in the manner most suitable to them – weekly, monthly, and lump sum gifts are all common.  However, by gifting in advance at the end of the previous calendar year, you can take advantage of tax deductions sooner.  For example, if you make next years annual gift in December of this year, you can deduct the amount from this years taxes.

Pledge of Appreciated Securities

An outright gift of appreciated stock eliminates any capital gains tax and allows you to claim an income tax deduction based on the full market value of your securities, regardless of your original cost.

 You would avoid the capital gains taxes you would normally have to pay on the sale and you may be able to deduct the full value of stock gift against your income taxes.

By paying your stock gift pledge for the following year in advance, (i.e.,  December of the current year), you can take the deduction for the current year.  This can be a valuable year-end tax planning strategy.

It is always a good idea to consult your personal tax advisor to make sure this strategy makes sense for your specific circumstances.

Capital Improvement Gifts

Christ Clarion would be delighted to accept a specific “special” gift that goes directly to our capital improvement fund, or to a specific project.  Our annual Choir/Instrumental services, and our organ and piano were funded with special gifts.

Memories and Tributes

When someone special in your life passes away, a gift to the Church can honor the person.  We will notify the appropriate family members and notify the congregation in the bulletin at your request.  In addition, Christ Clarion could be offered as an alternative in lieu of flowers for funeral arrangements.  Many of our beautiful trees were also given in honor of those who were special to members, and they are a lasting tribute.

Gifts By Will

You may be able to contribute to the Church by naming Christ Clarion in your Will than would be possible with an outright gift.  You may fund such a gift with cash, marketable securities, real estate, tangible property or closely held stock.