Fewer dollars, greater need at churches

Churches nationwide are definitely feeling the pinch during this economic downturn. If ever there was a time for Christians to be faithful in their giving, it's now. 
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Article from the Atlanta Journal Constitution:
Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Mike and Susan Sowers are eking out a tough economic year. They have faced serious family illnesses that kept them away from their jobs, and Susan’s father died.

Still, despite the lost income and extra expenses, the first check they write every month goes to Hamilton Mill United Methodist Church.

“We have full confidence that with God’s guidance we will have what we need and will be blessed for doing so,” Susan Sowers said. “And so far the needs have been met. My old car just keeps going and going. I thought I would buy a new car at the beginning of this year, but we did not. It has done OK.”

While churchgoers across the nation are facing hardships similar to those of the Sowerses, they all haven’t followed the Gwinnett couple’s example.

Many churches are facing the most severe drop in donations in a generation as the economy sputters.

Job loss is driving the decline, according to a recent survey coordinated by the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University. As congregants’ donations dwindle, churches are looking for ways to cut costs. At the same time, they also are seeing a growing need for their services.


Full article here: