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A gentle reminder from the government of the increases in the National Living Wage and the National Minimum Wage from 1st April as provided for in the Autumn Budget last year. For churches with paid employees, the rates, which reflect a 6.7% increase, will be as follows:
Most employees will receive the National Living Wage, but those who are aged 20 and under should receive the minimum wage.
Whilst for a significant number of churches, this increase will present a financial challenge, it is worth remembering that “The labourer is worth of his (or her) wages” (1 Tim 5:18)
Many of our churches are listed historical buildings, and even those that aren’t have a story to tell. The House of Commons Culture, Media, and Sports Committee is currently investigating how best to protect our heritage assets.
The enquiry will investigate issues regarding funding support and the practical aspects of sustaining and maintaining these important building assets. In particular:
Whilst the Churches Legislation Advisory Service (CLAS) has made an initial submission to the Committee, it is suggested that members of church governing bodies monitor progress via the Culture, Media & Sports Committee websites.
Encouraging local community groups and businesses to engage in maintaining churches and associate buildings should not be seen simply in terms of attracting financial support. This is also an outreach opportunity involving people, drawing them into our church fellowships and should not be ignored.
It is self-evident that computers are now integral to everyday life. For most of us, they are essential, not only as part of our working life but also in managing our personal information and finances. Very few churches currently exist without using a computer in some form or another to hold important administrative and financial information.
Threats to computer I.T. systems come in several forms
The Home Office has established a consultation aimed at reducing the threat posed by the criminal infection of computer systems with malicious ‘ransomware’ software. The aim is to increase the reporting of such incidents and reduce the amount of money paid out as ransom. The consultation is due to end on 8th April this year.
Whilst there have been several high-profile incidents
It would be unwise to think that smaller organisations are immune simply because the sums involved might not be as large. A church or charity with even a modest regular income from collections, donations or grants is regarded by the criminal fraternity as “fair game.”
With all that in mind, how are your church’s computer systems protected?
This might just be the time to review your church’s computer systems security.
If you are interested in learning more about how to protect your computer systems, please let us know by filling out our 1-minute questionnaire.
The Competition and Markets Authority has issued a checklist for funeral directors with the aim of ensuring they are fully compliant with the regulations governing their industry and specifically with the Funeral Markets Investigation Order 2021.
In recent years, funerals have become a significant area of business. Whilst the secularising of society has resulted in an increasing number of “non-religious, non-church” funerals, there are those who still wish to have a church funeral.
So, here’s the question. Do you ever run a check on the firm of funeral directors who seek to use your church periodically or who you might refer to the family of a deceased member of the fellowship?
Your church may have used a particular firm for many years, but how do you know whether or not they are compliant with current industry regulations?
It’s a simple question but not one that’s easy to answer readily. Here are some of the issues
These are just a few security issues worth periodically reviewing.
Ecclesiastical has some helpful advice on these issues in its February Church Matters
Getting funding for church projects – whether a new building, renovations or ministry expansion – can feel daunting. As Brits we shy away from asking for money, even when it’s for gospel ministry. But what if churches approached fundraising differently?
In an article kindly provided to ACAT by Kingdom Bank, they look at how switching our mindset from fundraising to relationship-building can make all the difference. Instead of seeing financial support as a transaction, churches should build long term gospel partnerships. People need time to journey with you before they’ll commit to regular giving.
The article also looks at the power of vision – while mission informs, vision inspires. Churches that clearly communicate the impact of their ministry are more likely to get generous support.
Beyond tithes and offerings, the piece looks at alternative funding options like grants, legacy gifts and matched-funding campaigns, and the benefits of working with a bank that understands church finances.
To read the full article and find out how to strengthen your church’s approach to stewardship, click below.
