Why This Campaign Matters
Covenant United Methodist Church carries approximately $358,163 in debt. Every month, a portion of our resources goes to interest payments instead of ministry. This campaign is our chance to change that — together.
We are currently paying $50,000 a year in debt servicing. Our interest rate has changed, which means it will now take longer to pay off the debt. That means more of our resources going to banks instead of ministry, staff, outreach, and facility needs.
Reducing this debt by half would free operating dollars for ministry, demonstrate faithful stewardship, and position Covenant for growth without the drag of legacy debt.
Campaign Timeline
Campaign introduced in worship; brochures distributed
Hear from Covenant members about why they're giving; commitment cards distributed
Bring your commitment card to worship; online giving available
Final total announced; thanksgiving and praise
How You Can Participate
There are multiple ways to give, and every gift — at every level — matters. Choose the option that works best for your household.
Giving Options
| Option | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| One-Time Gift | Single gift during the campaign | $1,000 today |
| 3-Month Pledge | Equal monthly payments, May–July | $200/mo = $600 |
| 6-Month Pledge | Equal monthly payments, May–Oct | $150/mo = $900 |
| 12-Month Pledge | Equal monthly payments, May–Apr | $100/mo = $1,200 |
| Stock / Assets | Transfer of appreciated stock | Tax-advantaged for donor |
Ways to Give
Commitment Card
Available in worship or from the church office. Bring to the altar on Commitment Sunday (April 26).
Online
Visit covenantaustin.org/give and select "Debt Reduction" as the fund.
Check
Make payable to Covenant UMC with "Debt Reduction" in the memo line.
Stock Transfer
Contact the church office for transfer instructions. Potential tax advantages for donors.
Every Gift Adds Up
You don't have to give a large amount to make a large difference:
| Monthly Gift | × 12 Months | × 25 Families |
|---|---|---|
| $25/mo | $300 | $7,500 |
| $50/mo | $600 | $15,000 |
| $100/mo | $1,200 | $30,000 |
| $200/mo | $2,400 | $60,000 |
Make Your Pledge Online
Ready to commit? Fill out the form below to submit your pledge. You can also pick up a commitment card at worship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I give to debt reduction instead of other needs?
We are spending $50,000 a year just to service our debt. Every one of those dollars is a dollar that cannot go to children's ministry, missions, staff, worship, or outreach. Reducing our debt frees up operating dollars for years to come. Think of it as an investment in Covenant's future ministry capacity.
Will this affect my regular giving?
No — and this is very important. We are asking for gifts that are above and beyond your regular tithes and offerings. Please do not redirect your regular giving to this campaign. The church's operating budget depends on consistent weekly and monthly giving, and we need both.
What if I can't give a large amount?
Every gift matters. A family that gives $50 a month for 12 months contributes $600 toward the goal. Multiplied across the congregation, these gifts add up powerfully. We are asking everyone to pray and participate at whatever level is right for their household. No gift is too small.
What happens if we don't reach the goal?
Every dollar raised will go directly to paying down the debt. Even if we fall short of $175,000, we will have made significant progress and reduced our monthly interest burden. There is no scenario in which giving to this campaign is wasted.
How can I help beyond giving?
Pray. Pray for the campaign, for the congregation, and for generous hearts. You can also help by sharing information with fellow members, offering a testimony, or simply encouraging others to participate. A campaign succeeds when the whole church owns it.
Questions?
Contact the church office at (512) 346-3124 or speak with Pastor Wilson directly. We're happy to talk through any of this with you.