The work of community

​By Laurie Gaumer, CGS Treasurer
So, it’s my turn to write an article. What do I say?
Well, I want to start by saying what a loving and dedicated group of leaders we have here at here at CGS. They work hard and they invest their time, talent and financial gifts. I hope each and every single one of us will take time to say, “thank you” as we move through our Sunday and again, over the weeks to come. Our leadership have come together by the Grace of God and I happen to know that this kind of loving-kindness doesn’t happen everywhere… believe you me!
Then, I want to say something about being treasurer for CGS. When I said I could handle this role, I didn’t have a clue about what I was stepping into. Had I known then what I know now, I doubt I would have been open to the possibility. Treasurer is a very big job and while there are many ELCA resources available to assist in the task, I am not inclined to implement the guidelines without the opportunity to review, discuss the details, and find consensus as we move forward. Our audit committee is doing their work and the finance committee will be reactivated soon. These are two big pieces for making sure our process is functioning well, with the checks and balances needed in the system. Our tellers and checkers continue to do their fine work, both counting and working alongside each other to assure the integrity of our gifts, while providing solid reports to our finance secretary.
Then, where our finances are concerned, I want to say that we are stable. I was concerned when our renter departed (I know, oh ye of little faith… I am DEFINITELY the Thomas of the crowd) so it has taken me some time to become comfortable with where we’re at where finances are concerned.
To date, we have experienced average giving levels of nearly $22,500 a month. And where expenses are concerned, we have averaged costs of nearly $33,000 a month, with costs exceeding giving levels by $10,500 a month. However, our bank balance is healthy… earlier in the year we transferred the gains from our investments, turning those gains into real dollars and making cash flow a reality.
My feedback as treasurer is simple… when it comes to finances, please:
· catch up on your giving levels if you are behind
· review your giving levels, consider giving at higher levels, and implement those increases now
· consider giving of your time and your talents, as well as your financial resources… your leaders have been excellent models for how that can work
· if you have an expense, please write up a check request, attach your original receipts and turn it in to Laura Rinde so CGS can reimburse you for an authorized expense
· thank the CGS staff for their devotion to our ministry
· thank your CGS leadership, who give in so very many ways…
Let me know if you have questions about the feedback from your devoted friend, Laurie Gaumer, who also happens to be your treasurer this year.