The assembly passed a budget for 2009 of $3,326,400 carrying an anticipated deficit of $280,000. Janet Neff, member of the synod’s Finance Committee, acknowledged that we don’t know where the deficit monies will come from. In the past when the synod has had a deficit, monies have been withdrawn from the Fund for Mission. The Fund currently has a balance of $1.3 million dollars. 53.5 % of the budget is sent to the ELCA to support the ministry of the wider church. The ELCA goal for synodical giving is 55%.

At a meeting of the presidents and vice presidents with synod staff they were informed that giving to the synod’s partnership support is up just $2,000 from twenty years ago. Over the same period, total receipts by congregations is up significatnly. Overall congregations are giving less of their income to the synod.

“We need to decide if the work we do together is important,” said Pastor Serena Sellers, assistant to the bishop.

Acknowledging that the synod does not have a development office, synod treasurer, Dick Reimet, said that we presently depend on pastors to take information back to congregations to support the synod.

“If voting members will all take back information it will help to keep people better informed,” said Reimet. He encouraged everyone to share the ministries that the synod engages in so that people will be better informed.