By Sandee Steinberg, Chair, Finance Committee

It’s that time again. The initial budget process for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 will start soon. I will reach out to church committees, ministries, and staff to gather initial budget requests and income estimates. Please make sure to check your various emails (personal, church, and committee) for updates. 

The budget process involves two rounds: an initial estimate in the Fall and a shorter Spring process to finalize the budget. The main steps for the Fall (including dates) are:

Early November: Finance reaches out to church groups and staff for initial budget requests and income estimates.

Early December: Initial budget requests and income estimates are due.

Mid-to-late December: The Finance Committee creates an initial budget based on the information from the earlier 2 steps. 

Early January: The Finance Committee will present the initial budget estimate to the board.  The board and stewardship will use those numbers to set a goal for the annual pledge drive.