Questions & Answers



Question: Why are we conducting a capital fund appeal at this time?
Answer: We have talked for years about the need for making the church more handicapped accessible, a larger, safer narthex and providing air conditioning. We are now faced with the additional need for a general facelift of the building interior. In this, the 125th year of our existence, we believe the appropriate time has come to solve these problems, and, in doing so, advance our ministry and our commitment to serving the twin cities area.

Question: Why did we choose the theme, "Growing with Joy!"?
Answer: We have chosen the theme "Growing with Joy!" because Saron is a place of growth and Joy. In the Bible, Saron is a fertile plain where flowers grow. For us, Saron is a growing, living, faithful congregation of God. A building improvement is simply another sign and necessity of our future and faith.

Question: What is the estimated cost of the project?
Answer: The total estimated cost of the project is $550,000.

Question: What is included in the cost?
Answer: The project will include a new entrance Narthex, a meeting room and two new handicapped accessible restrooms. Mechanical additions include a new electrical system, air conditioning throughout the building and a full-sized, 4-stop elevator. The three stained class windows in the back wall of the sanctuary will become three doorways from the sanctuary to the new entrance/Narthex. The stained glass windows will be installed in the new Narthex wall.

Question: What are the financial goals and how were they chosen?
Answer: Kairos analyzed our membership and financial statistics (including our recent history of giving) and took into account the scope of our project and the economy of our community. They determined our potential would allow us to reach or exceed a goal of $300,000 during the next 3 years. This represents new money, over and above our current donations to this congregation and funds previously received for the building.

Question: How does this goal relate to the total cost of our building project?
Answer: Once this goal is achieved we would have most of the entire project paid for in three years. ($550,000.00 project cost, minus $300,000.00 in capital funds pledge). At the end of three years we will be contracting a long-term mortgage for the remaining amount. Any gifts that can be given early in the process will save us interest expenses in the long term.

Question: When do we plan to break ground and begin construction?
Answer: Preparations for breaking ground next spring are already underway. A telephone pole is being moved out of the way. Our utility lines are being moved to for the new addition. We should be ready to break ground this spring of 2001.

Question: How does my response to "Growing with Joy!" affect my support of current expenses and benevolence?
Answer: It doesn't! Your "Growing with Joy!" response is a totally new commitment. All money received from this commitment will be directly applied to our building project. We pray that you will continue supporting the ongoing programs and outreach of our church by uninterrupted and undiminished ongoing support to our annual needs.

Question: How will I be contacted for my response?
Answer: During worship services of our Appeal Sunday, December 3rd you will be given the materials necessary to complete your response. If you are not ready to make your response that day or cannot attend worship on that weekend, you will be personally contacted by a member of the Finale Team. During the following week they will bring your materials and answer any questions you may have.

Question: How much should I give?
Answer: Everyone has to decide that for him/herself, but there are some guidelines for your consideration:
- Reflect on the blessings given you by a generous God and give out of joy and gratitude
- Ask God for direction, pray and meditate over a period of time, be open to the Spirit.
- Be informed by reading all the literature sent or delivered to you during this appeal.
- Attend a Mission Focus Gathering to hear the story and receive positive encouragement by your peers.
- Attend the Prayer Vigil on November 4th and once again ask God for guidance and courage.
- Give until it feels great and it takes your breath away! It will be the best investment of your life!

Question: How long will my commitment continue?
Answer: The commitment is for 3 years and is over and above your regular giving to the congregation. Your response card gives you options on how to configure your gift since not all people will want to give in the same way. Some will give one large, up front gift while others will give so much each week, etc.

Question: May I give stocks, real estate, insurance, or other gifts in kind in addition to cash gifting?
Answer: Absolutely! You are encouraged to think of assets in addition to cash. For many people this is the best (and smartest) way to give. Giving stocks, property, jewelry, cars, or other appreciated assets as a charitable donation is beneficial to both you and the church. If you think you would benefit from more information on this topic, call Dick Bell or John Olson or the corporate office of Kairos @ 1-800-851-3019.

Question: Will there be an opportunity to give specific gifts?
Answer: At the appropriate time during our 3 year giving phase, the "Appeal Advisory Team" will establish a list of needs to complete our capital project for those who wish to give specific gifts (sometimes in memory of a loved one). Specific guidelines for this giving opportunity will be clearly developed and made available to all people of the congregation.

Question: What if my financial situation changes or I move out of the area before the end of the 3 year giving period?
Answer: At anytime during the giving phase, your commitment may be increased, decreased, extended or cancelled by notifying our Financial Secretary. If you should move out of the area we hope you would be involved in another congregation and offer your support. We will be honored and grateful if you are willing to fulfill your commitment, but you are certainly under no obligation to do so. No matter what your circumstances, we ask you to support us in your prayers and to remember that you are always welcomed and loved.





Copyright ©2006 by Saron Lutheran Church - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED