2025 Pledge Campaign FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Pledging and Stewardship

How can I make a pledge to St. Timothy’s?
You can pledge online via this Google Form.

Or you can download a pledge card to mail through the following links:

Or you can make your pledge via Realm.

What does it mean to make a financial pledge to St. Timothy’s?

Making a pledge is promising to give a specific amount of your financial resources to St. Tim’s over the course of one calendar year. 

Why is pledging important?

Your gifts of time, talent, and treasure make things happen both at St. Tim’s and in our wider community! For Episcopalians, stewardship — pledging back to God a portion of what God has given you — is part of maintaining one’s spiritual life. It allows us to reflect on the gifts God has given us and show our thanks. There is also a practical reason for pledging: St. Tim’s plans our entire year of events and operating budget based on the pledges that are received. This helps us continue all the programs you and our church love and rely on! If we don’t have enough pledged income, we may have to cut some spending on some areas of ministry. 

Where does my pledge money go?

100% of your pledge money keeps St. Tim’s moving forward as a church. Pledges fund our priest and staff salaries, music, education forums, building repairs, many of our community celebrations, heat for all of our buildings, etc. They also help us participate in events like Compassion Week, support Santa Maria Urban Mission, and supplement the Little Free Pantry. None of that would be possible without pledge dollars. 

How much should I pledge?

Your commitment should be an intentional response to God’s gifts in your life. After looking at your income, consider what percentage you are called to return to God. No pledge is too small or too large. Our hope is that you become a member of our community and participate as the hands and feet of Christ in the world.

I am not a member. Do I have to join the Episcopal Church to pledge?

No. We would love to have you pledge and you do not have to be a member of the Episcopal Church (or any church!) to pledge. Anyone can join our community and we welcome you! 

What are different ways to make my pledge?

There are three ways to make your pledge: fill out a pledge card and bring it to church on Sundays or the office during the week; log onto sttims.org/realm and make your pledge; or email our treasurer, Vance Wagner (dvwagner@gmail.com).        

Can I give stocks or other financial instruments?

Yes, this is a great way that may help you to offset capital gains. Please contact the treasurer for instructions for donating securities (Vance Wagner at dvwagner@gmail.com).

Are my donations tax deductible?

Yes, they are tax deductible. St. Tim’s is a 501c(3) organization. You will be able to access a statement that details all the donations that you made during the year.

Who knows my pledge information?

Your pledge is kept confidential among the treasurer, bookkeeper, and rector.

Is Stewardship all about money?

No, it is about a faithful, intentional way of life that deepens our relationship with God and one another. Stewardship is the responsible management of our God-given resources of time, talent, and treasure. To that end, the mission of St. Tim’s is to promote awareness in the congregation that God is the source of all that we have and all that we are. In Christ’s name, we have a responsibility to participate in the life of our church family and our work in the community – just as our church family gives to us.

I have another question.

Please email the Stewardship Chair (Todd Hausman: todd.hausman@gmail.com) and/or our Rector, the Rev. Nikky Wood (nikky@sttims.org).