Giving at South Church

Even 2000 years ago, Jesus knew that talking about money – how we use it and where it comes from – was the only way to save us from being consumed by it. Here at South Church, we believe in cultivating faithful and transparent conversations about finances – both our personal finances and church finances.

or keep reading to learn more about giving at South Church

We’re proud that over 90% of our budget is made possible by South Church families.

Unlike some churches that are supported by a denomination, South Church is primarily supported by families in the church. Some are from generations past who left legacy gifts, but the majority are folks just like you. These funds support our pastoral staff, youth and music programs, community and mission outreach and maintaining our historic building.

Every gift – no matter how big or small – can have an impact, and why we depend on every member and friend of South Church to prayerfully discern at what level their family can support our ministries.

When you give to South Church, you’ll always know where your gifts are going.

At South Church, we prioritize mission trips for our youth, meals for our hungry brothers and sisters, and affordable housing for our neighbors. From local soup kitchens and international disaster relief charities, to staff budgets and building maintenance, no matter the size of your gift you’ll be able to see how we use every dollar to minister to the greater Andover community and the world. Our financial administrator and church leaders work hard to prepare yearly narrative budgets that detail how the church finances have been used. Throughout the year, our church council receives monthly updates about the financial health of our church. When you take a look at the ministries of South Church, and how we use gifts, we think you’ll feel good about what you find.

Every gift – no matter the size – makes a big difference.

As a church supported by our members and friends, every gift goes a long way. Most families support South Church by making a yearly “pledge.” Every year, families prayerfully consider how much they feel called and capable of giving to the church. There is no correct amount nor amount too small. Some families pledge $100 a month, while others pledge $5000 a year. The average pledge is around $3000 a year. While life situations arise and we are not always able to fulfill our pledge – grace abounds! Even when we’re uncertain about what next year will bring, any amount helps our volunteer leaders budget and plan ministries for the coming year.

What is a pledge?

A pledge is a good faith promise by church members to give a set amount over a calendar year to support South Church. Pledges help our church leaders draft a responsible budget for the coming year. Last year 225 households made a commitment to sustain our programs and outreach throughout the year. Families choose to fulfill their pledge in a variety of ways: Monthly electronic donations, weekly checks, and/or one-time stock donations.

There are three easy ways to pledge

1. Realm

You can use our secure, integrated church management software to make your pledge, set up your own recurring payments, and monitor your giving history. If you haven’t activated your account, email Joanne. If you need help registering, or making a pledge, watch these videos or email Joanne. You can always log-in at OnRealm.org

2. Google Form

If navigating Realm is difficult for any reason, you can fill out this simple Google Form. You do not need a Google account. Note that this form will not allow you to set up options to fulfill your pledge, only record your pledge.

3. Pledge Card

If you didn’t receive a pledge card in the mail, or need a new one, let us know.