At First Church, we strive to model stewardship rooted in simplicity and generosity. When we think about stewardship, we constantly ask: What has God given us, and how can we be most faithful with it
We encourage every individual and family to consider these questions:
- How can we live simply, acknowledging that God has provided more than enough?
- How can we give generously, knowing that our giving is both a blessing to others and an act of thanksgiving to God?
As a church, we hold ourselves to the same standard. Our leaders prayerfully steward our resources so that our budget reflects both faithful simplicity and generous outreach.
How Are Contributions Used?
When you give to the church budget, your contributions are carefully allocated to support both local and global ministry:
- 50% stays with your worshiping community (Downtown, Andover, or Offerings).
- 25% supports church-wide needs (staffing, insurance, printing, and more).
- 11% goes to the Kentucky United Methodist Church for inter-connectional ministries (Aldersgate Camp, Wesley Foundations, new church starts, and global outreach).
- 10% is dedicated to Missions, directly serving and supporting others.
- 4% is invested in leadership development for both laity and clergy, as well as funding new communities of First UMC.
Special Contributions and Missions
- Capital Projects – Every dollar you give to a special offering designated for capital projects goes 100% to that project.
- Restricted Contributions
- Announced Special Offerings (disaster relief, Kentucky Methodist Children’s Homes, Wesley Village, UMCOR): 100% goes directly to that cause.
- Budget-Supported Ministries – Contributions under $1,000 are included in the regular budget; gifts of $1,000 or more go 100% to the designated ministry.
How Are Missions Funds Used?
As we work to make disciples across the street and around the world, our missions partnerships connect us with people we could not serve alone. Through church-wide Missions funds, we support the High Street Neighborhood Center. Each of our three worshiping communities also partners with local and global ministries to serve their unique contexts.
Want to Learn More?
- If you have questions, we’re happy to help!
- For questions about your contributions, contact Ryan Barr, Treasurer.
- For questions about the church budget or financial standing, contact Jennifer Gibson, Church Administrator, or Ryan Barr, Treasurer.
Together, we reflect simplicity and generosity, ensuring that every gift is used faithfully for God’s work in the world.
First UMC Endowment Foundation
The First United Methodist Church Endowment Foundation was established in 2001 to support and expand the mission of First Church beyond the annual budget. Gifts to the Foundation are tax-deductible and continue to give for generations to come.
Learn More about the Endowment Foundation
