January’s tip:
           Offering Envelop: According to a representative from www.americanchurch.com <http://www.americanchurch.com/> , offering envelops can be a key to improving the financial position of your church. However, there Is a new “bell and whistle” on the market – a monthly envelop system. These envelopes are designed to be mailed on a monthly basis, much like an electric bill or monthly car payment. Churches have discovered several things happen. These envelopes “remind” folks of the financial commitments they made to their church on a regular basis, promoting the discipline of giving faithfully to God, even on weeks they are away. Second, they allow the church to have a monthly contact with members in the area of mission and finance. A note can be included with each month’s envelopes highlighted some specific area of mission supported through the generous giving of each church member. This directly ties people to the mission their giving supports on a frequent, timely schedule.
 
February’s tip:
           Saturday financial seminar: According to recent statistics, Americans have reached an all time low in terms of their savings accounts and habits. Few people have the ability to overcome even the most basic of emergencies caused by health or work loss. They need help within the area of controlling their finances God’s way! Call the Portland ABCO office today (503.228.8394), and inquire about a Saturday financial seminar to help your congregation Get Out Of Debt!
 
March’s tip:
        Will and Estate planning: Your churches most faithful and committed givers are making decisions each and every day about their finances. Help provide them with opportunities to keep God in the equation! Their church home and mission work has always meant a great deal to them. Periodic will and estate seminars will help them plan their future with God in the mix. Virtually 95% of gifts made through the American Baptist Foundation are left to support the work of local mission in the church where that person worshipped. One of the best things you can do to develop a financial base from which to launch new ministries and renovate your facilities is to hold a wills seminar every year. This service is provided free of charge by your ABCO Region, through our membership in the American Baptist Foundation. Call the Portland ABCO office today (503.228.8394) for information on how to reach your American Baptist Foundation representative Rick Barlow, or email Rick directly at RBarlowABF@msn.com.