Start Planning Now
Now is the time to begin brainstorming about what your congregation might do in the way of a special project in 2011 to advance one or more of the missional directions of the MNO Synod. These are renewing and empowering congregations, strengthening lay and rostered leaders, answering the spiritual hunger in our communities, tackling poverty and fostering hope in rural settings.
Applications for small grants up to $2,000 to support such projects are available from the Synod. Applications will be accepted up until September 30. A grants committee appointed by Synod Council will review the applications in October and make a recommendation to Synod Council who will in turn make a final decision at its November meeting. Successful applicants will receive their funds early in 2011 to begin implementing their projects.
Guidelines for completing an application to the Small Grant Program and as well as an application form can be downloaded from the MNO website. The guidelines and form can also be obtained by calling the Synod office. 204.889.3760. |
The MNO Synod Foundation for Mission and Ministry Inc. (The Foundation) has an asset base of $336,511 as at December 31, 2009. This resource continues to grow because of the generosity of synod family members. The strength of the asset base allows us to award grants for mission and ministry projects in the MNO Synod on an annual basis.
There is a strong need to grow the assets of the Foundation and we ask you to encourage people in your congregation to look at a variety of ways to assist the church in this regard.
Consider a bequest to the church, that a certain portion of an estate be given to the church.
Purchase a gift annuity in which the church invests the money and is committed to paying the donor a guaranteed income for life. The church receives the remainder of the principle when the donor dies. Give a life insurance policy as a gift. It may mean donating a paid up policy that the donor no longer needs. Take out a new policy that is owned by the church and which is payable to the church on the donor’s death. Charitable remainder trusts such as cash, bonds, stocks or real estate gives the donor ongoing income from the investment or the donor may convey the stocks and bonds directly to the church.
Planned gifts that celebrate special occasions and milestones are also a way to recognize the church’s ministry. This may be for weddings, anniversaries, graduations, etc. |
