Financial situation for one-third of Presbyterian churches is at least “good” even with economic crisis
Seattle Presbytery
By Perry Chang, Research Services
Even though the income of three in five congregations has declined in the wake of the economic crisis that began in late 2007, leaders of more Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) congregations describe their congregation’s current financial situation as “excellent” or “good” (30 percent) than as “in serious difficulty” or “in some difficulty” (24 percent).
Leaders of half of congregations say finances are “tight, but we manage.”
Majorities of PC(USA) congregations have felt the impact of the economic crisis in the form of less money available from investments and savings accounts, less money available for mission and benevolence, more requests for cash assistance, more unemployment among church members, a staff salary reduction or a salary freeze, and challenges for capital campaigns and building programs. Few congregations, however, have delayed filling staff positions or laid off or furloughed staff as a result of the crisis.
These findings are from the spring 2010 survey of PC(USA) congregations, part of the larger Faith Communities Today 2010 survey.
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