Intentional Change
The past 12 months have taught us that many things can, and do, change. For the past three years, Alliance leaders have been meaningfully realigning ministry efforts and responsibilities. Why? To actualize our ministry impact. President John Stumbo explains our reason well in his Blog N. 90,* as “mission fulfillment”!
There have been some strategic changes in the giving process. Remember the variety of “special funds”? There was the vehicle special, work-of special, outfit fund, approved special, “I-don’t-remember fund”…you get the idea. The new GCF is succinctly a 2-part message — You can give to the whole work of the Alliance, or You can give to a worker you love, i.e. to my [IW] ministry. It’s a simple as that!
Giving to the whole work of the C&MA (the GCF) is a benefit for all workers. The My Ministry segment represents a portion of what it costs to keep an IW on the field — which includes their compensation, language study, children’s education, rent, etc. as well as their projects, their vehicle, work-of, outfit funds, etc. This involves all Alliance IWs, under all 4 structures - aXcess, CAMA, Envision & Marketplace Ministries. And, giving either way counts as giving to the GCF.
One aspect of this new 2-part message, is that all IWs are encouraged to raise a bit more of their costs. This is specific to each IW, their context and ministry. Some people are aghast, troubled by learning that our missionaries are raising some of their own support. Technically speaking, Alliance IWs have always raised part of their support - it was included in their role in “missions tours” and their ministry of reconnecting with local Alliance churches. They also raised their own funds, if we include the various specials. In a way, that’s not changing. This new funding model simplifies our giving and is a great opportunity with which we can all engage. It is also a meaningful opportunity for sending & partner churches, as well as for home districts!
As our GCF funding model is being updated, so is the technology for online giving. Donors will be able to support the IW they have a relationship with, and the whole work of the Alliance. Watch for further updates on the Alliance website.
By-the-way…in previous years, there was a percentage assessment applied to monies raised for work, project, vehicle and outfit funds given to IWs. This percentage (15%) went to the GCF. As of July 1, 2021, this assessment ceases to be in effect. In essence, providing a “boost” to IWs as they encourage giving to the new GCF — a whole Alliance budget. Just one more way we see beneficial changes in 2021!
Thank You for Generous Giving in 2020
Note: In this article is a graphic you can use, a video clip that help communicate the story, useable quotes, an encouragement to engage, and a “thank you” to celebrate.
Dave Manske
Missions Mobilizer
North Central District of The C&MA