How is Jubilee Church financed?
God has called us to do a job. From the outset, this church has consisted of people who are willing to devote their time, energy and money to this task. We believe that giving away a proportion of our income to finance the work and ministry of the church is an important part of Christian commitment and something that the bible clearly teaches.
What are the benefits of giving?
Behind the Bible’s instructions to all believers to give, there are a number of reasons for giving. The apostle Paul lists some of them in 2 Corinthians 9:6-15:
• generous giving generates rich rewards (v.6)
• we experience God’s love and favour (v.8)
• God’s grace is multiplied to us (v.10)
• it results in thanksgiving to God (v.11)
• people’s needs are met (v.12)
• it creates gratitude (v.15)
Furthermore, giving should be characterised by joy and cheerfulness and no one should give either reluctantly or under compulsion (v.7).
What are the principles for giving?
Paul gives helpful instructions on this issue. In 1 Corinthians 16:2, he sets out at least five principles for giving:
• Periodic – “on the first day of the week” – choose a set time for your giving
• Personal – “every one of you” – we are all invited to participate
• Planned – “set aside” – let your giving be thoughtfully planned
• Proportional – “in keeping with his income” – the proportion is far more significant than the amount
• Purposeful – “when I come no collections will have to be made” – our primary commitment is to our own church
How are our church finances organised?
Jubilee Church Derby is a registered charity, number 1162660 and is therefore subject to the law governing charities. In April 2016 we changed our trust status from a Charitable Trust (no. 1097142) to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO - 1162660), this change of structure allows greater flexibility and room for growth in the future. There are five trustees who between them oversee the church’s finances. The team currently consists of: Adam Civval, Elizabeth Crump, Sandeep Manaktala, Graham Pyman and Jo Willoughby.
What are the safeguards against mismanagement?
We seek to implement the principles set out in the New Testament regarding the management of money given for the purposes of financing ministry. For example, taking great care to do what is right in the eyes of both The Lord and accepted good practice; avoiding any grounds for criticism of the way monies are administered; involving a team of trustworthy people, not just one person.
An annual report of our financial activities is submitted to the Charity Commission each year. These are available to view at any time.
Warning on Credit Card Giving
We would warn against the irresponsible use of credit cards in any situation, and giving is no exception. It is unwise to go into debt for any reason but especially where giving towards the work of the church. If you are struggling with Debt or need some advice please use the information below. Here's an article which explains more...
Debt Advice
If you are a regular attendee of Jubilee and are having financial difficulties, please do the following:
Firstly, speak to your LifeGroup leader, an elder or someone else you trust - don't struggle in silence.
Secondly, the following organisations offer financial advice and help with managing debt and it may be beneficial for you to make contact with one of them:
Christians Against Poverty (CAP)
The Jubilee Project - Run by Derby City Mission