Stewardship – Institution to Sanctuary

November 2, 2025

Sue and I have been members of this church for 34 years. We moved to Farmington in 1991. As I consider our stewardship in 2025, two words are on my mind.  Institution and Sanctuary. In 1991, we joined the First Presbyterian Church in Victor located in an historic building on Main Street. I was born a presbyterian. I was baptized and confirmed at the First Presbyterian Church in Oneonta, NY. I transferred membership to FPCV from Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh where I was ordained a Deacon. FPCV continues my legacy of Presbyterian worship, ordination, liturgy, learning, mission, and action aligned to faith in Jesus.

In 1991, we joined an Institution.

In 2025 FPCV has been transformed in many ways and so have I.  These changes are positive but also challenging. They mirror changes in our culture, community, media, politics, and more.  We are being transformed into something new! We have created a new Vision Statement that emphasizes our future dreams and priorities.

 In a constantly changing world, we remain rooted in God, honoring our past, embracing our present and trusting in our future. Our community of faith is a hub of spiritual practice, where we are transformed to be the hands and feet of Christ, ready to serve and be served. 

In 2025, I am increasingly part of a Sanctuary. A place and community dedicated to meaningful worship, cultivating individual faith, and serving our community. We serve our community through Victor Farmington Food Cupboard, Community Dinners, Family Promise and so many other ways.

Financial stewardship is an essential part of living our vision statement. 

Here are some summarized facts for your consideration.

For 2025 are projecting:

Expenses         $206,000

Income              $190,000

Deficit               $16,000

We model tithing as a church. This means that 10% of our income ($19,000) is given to local and national mission organizations. This deficit was planned for 2025. We are on-plan thanks to the diligent management of our staff and leadership. We have savings of $150,000 which is used to cover this shortfall. Compared to many churches is a small savings. FPCV has never been blessed with a huge portfolio of endowments. We are a real-time stewardship church that depends on the on-going generosity of our members. As we finish 2025, we are grateful for your generosity.  Let’s strive for a balanced budget!

Looking ahead to 2026. This is our preliminary budget.

Expenses         $211,000

Income              $190,000

Deficit               $21,000

Expenses are higher due to general inflation and unexpectedly higher gas and electric rates. We are challenged to grow income in 2026 as we acknowledge the passing of several members. 

At worship on November 23rd (or before) we are asking you to make your 2026 pledge. If you are able, please consider increasing your giving by 5% or more. With your generosity we will reduce our deficit in 2026 and avoid unsustainable reductions in our savings. After receiving your pledges, the Session will finalize a 2026 budget that will be shared at our annual congregational meeting.

Finally, we publish monthly Treasurer’s Reports with many more details. Contact me, I am happy to discuss this information.

David Henderson and the Stewardship Committee