RESPONSIBLE STEWARDSHIP

Generations of Emmanuelites before us have sustained the financial foundations of this church with the creation and stewardship of a pooled investment fund – what is commonly thought of as our endowment. Established in 1909 at the urging of then-rector the Rev. John Houston Eccleston, Emmanuel’s investment fund allows us to be the church we are today. Investment income – at least as much as annual pledges by current members – enables our day-to-day operations. 

As we launch this capital campaign, it is critical to understand that any funds we draw from our investments to support the campaign will reduce the income available to support our outreach and everyday operations as a church. While we expect to supplement our fundraising efforts by drawing from our investment fund, we must carefully balance current needs against the church’s continued long-term stability and strength. To the extent possible, we intend to preserve Emmanuel’s investment fund and count on the generosity and faithfulness of the Emmanuel family to fund this campaign.

Our last capital campaign, honoring our 150th Anniversary, endowed part of our commitment to outreach and provided for much-needed maintenance and improvements to the facilities. At that time, the members of Emmanuel rose to meet the financial imperatives of the moment. The legacy of those gifts can be seen, heard, and felt in our Sunday School rooms, our magnificent organ, and the comfort provided by improved heating and air conditioning.

Now, it is our time to make an extraordinary commitment to the Emmanuel of the future. All Emmanuel members and friends of the church are invited and encouraged to join in this effort at the level appropriate to their circumstances.