At its February stated meeting, the Session approved the various apportionments for the 2010 Benevolences (mission giving). I will do some commentary on a few items, but first want you to know exactly what the Session did so you can take appropriate pride in their work.

In years past, after figuring out what amount of money should be budgeted for various operating expenses, the Session has designated an amount equal to 10% of that total and adopted that 10% figure as the amount budgeted for benevolences. Then that benevolence figure was divided between various works, agencies and organizations. Thus the total budget for the church was: operating expenses, plus 10% of anticipated operating expenses to arrive at a total budget for FPC, Ingram.

For 2010, the Session used the same basic procedure, but changed the amount for benevolences from 10% to 11%. The Session believed it was justified in doing this for several reasons. First, was a true sense that the LORD was calling us to do so. The whole process was approached very prayerfully and when the suggestion was made that we go from 10% to 11% everyone present "just knew" it was the right thing. Second, because of the faithfulness and generosity of the members of FPC and of others who contribute to the church, we are blessed with some financial reserves in our church accounts so that we have kind of a "cushion". Third, we trust God. We believe that when we do what He asks us to do, even if it seems unusual, that He will provide what is needed so we can accomplish His purposes. And we do not believe that He wants us to keep large cash surpluses on hand. Fourth, as moderator of the Session, if every member had not had a sense of peace about approving the increase, I would have counseled against doing it.

Now some comments about some specific recipients of benevolence money. Christian Assistance Ministry (CAM) based in Kerrville. Primarily offers food, but also some clothing and, when finances permit, assistance with prescription meds and utility bills. FPC is a long standing supporter. Their portion was increased to $1750. Alpha-Omega Life Center is a pro-life "crisis" pregnancy ministry. AOLC’s list of services is long, but all are related to pro-life, pro-sexual integrity, pro-family matters. Their portion was also upped to $1750. (I have served as president of the board of directors, but my term of eligible service is coming to a close the end of March. I refrain from voting on Session matters pertaining to AOLC.) The Beth Shalom Fellowship of Churches is our mission partner in Nepal. These are the folks we visited in October, 2007, and with whom Dieter and Claudia Walter work closely as consultants and advisors. These Nepali brothers and sisters are doing a great job of evangelism and church planting. They also operate a Bible school for training Christian leaders from all over Nepal. Their amount is $1250. On its own the Adult Sunday School Class supports a health worker at Panchkhal, Nepal. The health worker is a member of the Beth Shalom Aanpaghari Church. FPC also provides some support for the Walters. Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship, an evangelistic outreach to unreached ethnic groups is receiving $1000. (Presbyterian) Medical Benevolence Foundation will receive $1000 towards their work in relief and self-development in health care matters.

That is not an exhaustive look, but representative of how the Session is directing the investment of benevolence money in the work of God’s kingdom. A complete breakdown will be included in the March 7th worship bulletin.

Please continue to pray for all the recipients of FPC’s mission giving as well as the Session as it seeks God’s mind in matters of money and outreach. You should be proud of the Session and the care and diligence of its individual members. Further, you should be gratified that God has blessed you who are the donors and given you a part in His great works.