What is a pledge?

A pledge is a promise to donate a specific amount to St. John’s over the coming year.

 

Why can’t I just donate one time?

We are asking you to make a commitment to pledge so that our budget for mission and ministry can reflect a predictable and stable source of giving. Occasional gifts are welcome, but they don’t allow the Vestry and ministry leaders to plan a year’s worth of opportunities with a reliable budget.

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What amount should I pledge?

Think prayerfully about the place of St. John’s in your life and the love that it represents, and come to a faithful decision about the amount to give. 

 

How do I fulfill my pledge?

A pledge can be fulfilled through a one-time payment or multiple payments. Payments can be set up in a number of ways:

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• Cash or check in an envelope in the offering basket or mailed to St. John‘s

• Recurring payments made through your credit card* or bank.** 

• Donation of stock

• Tax-free IRA distribution(s) for those 70.5 years of age or older

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* If you pay your pledge with a credit card, you will be asked to contribute an additional amount to cover the credit card processing fee.

 

** There is no fee for transactions via ACH/bank account.

 

How do I fulfill my pledge with an IRA distribution?

You can transfer assets directly from a traditional IRA to support St. John’s, an easy, tax-efficient way to fulfill your pledge. If you are 70.5 years of age or older, you are able to make a tax-free gift of up to $100,000 from your traditional IRA directly to St. John’s. If you are 73 or older, you can also use this transfer to satisfy your required minimum distribution. 

 

What if I find I can’t meet my pledge?

Please be in touch with Annie Kao, Stewardship Associate, at akao@stjohnsec.org or 410-461-7793, ext. 224, and let her know that your life circumstances have changed and you will need to adjust your pledge.

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What if I need assistance with my account or making my pledge? 

Contact Annie Kao, Stewardship Associate, at akao@stjohnsec.org or 410-461-7793, ext. 224. Please note that Annie is part-time, and it may take a day or so for her to respond to you.