Dear Church Family,
As spring once again returns with its promise of rebirth and renewal, we want to thank you for your generous giving over the first three months of 2026! You are helping the church to meet its expenses and making it possible for God’s work to be accomplished in Eaton Rapids and beyond.
Specifically, through March, revenue toward the Unified Budget was $137,000, which fell just short of our actual expenses of $141,000, and our budgeted expenses of $139,000. During the first quarter of the year unexpected furnace repairs, an unanticipated amount of snow removal and salt, and higher heating bills added extra costs that are now behind us. We are looking forward to a more “normal” spring and summer. And, we know we can depend on your continued faithfulness when the expenses for the church continue to rise just as they do for you at home and at work.
As you know, your support of the Unified Budget helps to pay for the essentials like staff salaries and benefits, office equipment, online streaming, music and video licenses, energy bills, and Ministry Shares as part of our connectional giving as United Methodists. In contrast, gifts to the Building Fund (which are needed too!) help pay down the church’s mortgage for past capital improvements and help fund present and future ones as well. Every dollar you give to these two funds makes a real difference!
But nothing is more important than our investment in our staff through the United Budget! The increased focus on discipleship, youth, and worship is paying off. We have all witnessed the renewed engagement of our children and youth. New adult visitors are returning and becoming members. Young families with children are getting to know each other and finding a church home. The future of FUMER is coming into view!
Thanks to you, our church touches many lives in many ways. We continue to be amazed at the way God provides for the ministries of First Church! Thank you for your continued prayers, generosity, and support. Thank you for giving back to God a portion of what he has given you.
On behalf of the Finance Committee,
Steven Peters, Chair