Stewardship at Bethlehem
The essential goal of the stewardship ministry at Bethlehem is to help focus our hearts and our lives on the things that really matter. By growing in our faith, helping others, and being good stewards of the abundance that God has given us, we can focus on the richness of being rather than the richness of having.
As part of building our relationship with God, each year we ask you to give a gift of gratitude for God's blessings. Your annual giving strengthens our church and allows us to be part of a community of faith that makes a difference in people's lives.
For more information about Stewardship at Bethlehem please contact Chris Haugen at 612-312-3402 or chaugen@bethlehem-church.org.
Slow Down to Celebrate
Everyone is invited to the Celebration Brunch on Sunday morning, 8:30 am-12:30 pm, in Iverson Hall as we celebrate the generosity of the Bethlehem community. Hosted by the Stewardship Ministry team.
Slow down and celebrate the many, generous blessings of God.
Tax Reminder for Your Congregation
A provision in the tax bill recently passed by Congress reinstates the ability of those age 70 1/2 years and older to make distributions of up to $100,000 per tax year from Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) directly to a charity of their choice without having to claim it as income. Since the tax bill was passed so late in December, the act allows for a charitable distribution made through January 31, 2011, to be claimed as a 2010 gift.
Year End Giving
As always, we thank you for your continued commitment to and support of Bethlehem. If you are considering a year-end gift to church, here are some ways to give:
· Stock: A gift of stock can be deducted from your income tax at fair market value and will allow you to avoid capital gains tax.
· Simply Giving and Auto Give with your local Bank: This may be a good time to consider electronic giving either through Simply Giving or auto give/bill pay through your local Bank. These are both convenient ways to give because there’s no need to write checks or bring cash to church, and Bethlehem receives your contribution even if you are unable to attend. In addition, debit/credit cards have been added to the Simply Giving option if you would prefer to give to Bethlehem via this method.
If you have any questions, please contact Chris at 612.312.3402 or chaugen@bethlehem-church.org. Please note that year end gifts must be postmarked or received in the church office by Saturday, December 31. and that stock gifts take a few extra days to process. Additionally, please use a 2011 giving envelope or indicate in the memo line of your check that your gift is for 2011. Any gifts in a 2012 envelope will be considered gifts for the New Year!
Designating Your Thrivent Choice Dollars
Starting in 2010 you can designate Bethlehem as the recipient of your Thrivent Choice Dollars, a program for Thrivent members. Those eligible for "Choice Dollars" can help direct Thrivent Financial's charitable dollars to nonprofit organizations and congregations. If you are a Thrivent member and would like to direct your "Choice Dollars" please visit https://www.thrivent.com/thriventchoice/ or email Thrivent at mail@thrivent.com.
