This year, you will notice two figures on our Tree of Giving. One represents what we need to cover our estimated year-end expenses,* and the other reflects what we need to fully meet our budget. Last year some of you asked why both weren’t shown. We are displaying both — and I want to share why each matters.
The estimated expense number is simply what we need to break even. The budget number — though higher — is also important. More than a decade ago, Wilshire adopted a Unified Budget approach that gathers all income and expenses for our ministry into one faithful picture. It allows us to work together as one body, supporting every ministry through the annual appeal rather than relying on separate fundraising. This frees our leaders and staff to focus on worship, care, teaching, service and outreach.
Our Unified Budget also relies on year-end surplus to fund essential projects and unexpected needs. We budget about $120,000 annually for building contingencies, but this year our needs have far exceeded that — more than triple — due to water intrusion, elevator work, electrical upgrades and other improvements that come with an aging facility. We’ve been able to address these only because of your generosity in past surpluses.
Looking ahead, much work remains to maintain our facilities and sustain the ministries that shape our shared life. Your year-end giving is vital to helping us meet these needs with confidence.
During this season of giving and gratitude, I invite you to hold Wilshire in your prayers. As you reflect on the numbers before you, may you also reflect on the ministry we share — the lives we touch, the worship we offer, the disciples we nurture and the community we serve. And may you consider how you can help us remain on solid footing for today and for the future God is leading us toward.
Thank you for the ways you give, care and serve. We are grateful for you.
Grace, Peace and Love,
—Tim
*Our expenses are lower than the overall Unified Budget because several areas came in under projections, including Support (about $115,000, mainly due to lower-than-expected property insurance, security/alarm service and other costs), Personnel benefits (about $55,000 due to retirement and group benefits being lower), Learn and Worship (about $85,000), along with other smaller line items.