213th Annual Council
The Abundance of God's Love
January 25-26, Reston, Virginia
2008 Description of Budget Items, Both Income and Expense
INCOME BUDGET ITEMS
A.ANTICIPATED PLEDGE INCOME An estimate of total voluntary pledges from the parishes for the support of the mission of the diocese.
B. OTHER ESTIMATED INCOME TO SUPPORT DIOCESAN BUDGET
Total of miscellaneous income from various sources. Examples include reimbursement of office expenses (from diocesan institutions, such as DMS, The Memorial Trustees and The Trustees of the Funds), individual gifts and donations, and investment income from operating cash management.
C.VIRGINIA EPISCOPALIAN SUBSCRIPTIONS
In 1966, the Annual Council of the Diocese established a policy calling for each communicant household to receive the Virginia Episcopalian, and calling on congregations to contribute $3.75 per household to help defray publication costs. The Executive Board has raised the asking twice. In 2000, it was raised to $4.25 and then in December 2007, to $5.00 per household. The rate for non-diocesan subscriptions is $6.00 per copy. The 2008 Executive Board, aware that this covers only one-half of production and mailing will study additional increases to adequately fund this core area of diocesan communication.
D.HEALTH INSURANCE ADMINISTRATION REIMBURSEMENT
Three-percent of health insurance premium was approved by the 1995 Executive Board to reimburse the diocesan budget for expenses of plan administration (consultant, staff, postage, audit and account float). Diocesan auditors monitor the appropriate level of this account.
E.RESTRICTED INCOME
This line reflects income from restricted sources such as the Reid Trust income which helps support our mountain missions, income from the Episcopal fund which supports our bishops and other sources of restricted funds.
F.PRIOR YEAR INCOME
In 2008, there is no prior year income available.
EXPENSE BUDGET ITEMS
A.GENERAL CHURCH BUDGET Theology: For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body--whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free ... Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 1 Cor. 12:13 & 27
The Diocese of Virginia is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion, and our support of the general Church budget is a vivid reminder of this truth--the truth that in our differences we remain one in heart and spirit through Jesus Christ who continues to work through the people of the Church to fashion a new creation.
The budget formula of the general Church, revised at the 1997 General Convention and affirmed by the 2000 General Convention, asks the Diocese of Virginia for a pledge of 21% of total diocesan income after a $100,000 exemption. Total diocesan income is generally defined by the general Church as operating income from churches and all other unrestricted income sources based on the prior year's audit.
B.ECUMENICAL PARTNERSHIPS Theology: The King will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine,you did for me." Matt. 25:40
The Gospel of Jesus Christ is always word and deed. As we reach out to those in need, we become the voiceand the hands of Christ as a witness to our faith in the Cross.
B. 1.Chaplain Service of the Churches of Virginia, Inc.
Since 1920, the Chaplain Service has been assigning Christian chaplains to the juvenile institutions and prisons throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. Chaplains are assigned to four juvenile correctional centers and 33 prisons where they conduct worship services, lead Bible studies, counsel prisoners and coordinate volunteers. There are over 29,000 men, 2,000 women and almost 1,000 children incarcerated in Virginia. Two new prisons opened in 2007.
B.2.Refugee Resettlement
This grant, working through the Virginia Council of Churches' refugee coordinator, helps resettle refugees within the Diocese of Virginia as part of the Episcopal Church Refugee/Migration Ministries, and assists them in their adjustment in the United States. This is the largest resettlement organization in Virginia and in 2007, new refugee groups to Virginia included persons from Burma, Burundi and Iraq.
B.3.Virginia Council of Churches
The Virginia Council of Churches is the link among 38 judicatories, representing 18 denominational groups within the Commonwealth. For the 63 years of their existence, their task has been to "discover & manifest more fully the oneness of the Church" providing for interchurch study, planning, work & witness, fostering ecumenical action and encouraging relationships with other ecumenical, private and public agencies whose interests are consistent with the purpose of VCC and its member communions.
B.4.Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy
A non-profit, statewide, interfaith organization of over 20 judicatories committed to addressing social justice issues in Virginia through a full-time, year-round program of education and advocacy on issues of social justice. Key work in 2008 involves health care access, capping payday loans to reasonable levels in Virginia and environmental education. The center is also very active in monitoring legislation that is detrimental to religious entities.
C. SUPPORT OF YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS MINISTRY Theology: When Jesus said this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do nothinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receivethe kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." Mark 10:14, 15
Young people are not merely the church of tomorrow, they are a vital part of the church today. Our commitmentto education and camping programs is an investment of primary importance.
C.1.Robert Bruce Hall Diocesan Scholars Program
This fund was established in 1985 in honor of Bishop Hall following his death in recognition of his special interest in supporting scholarships to minority students in our six Church Schools. In prior years, this funding allowed for additional diversity of experiences for all students attending the Church Schools.
C.2.Grants for Ministries in Higher Education
Supports Episcopal chaplaincies and college programs on campuses within the Diocese of Virginia including James Madison University, University of Mary Washington, UVA, George Mason University, Northern Virginia Community College, Randolph Macon College and VCU. Supporting collegiate level young adults continues to be a diocesan priority.
C.3.Shrine Mont Scholarship Program
One of the greatest resources in the Diocese of Virginia is the camps and conferences program at Shrine Mont. This subsidy provides for general expenses (camp infirmary, insurance, etc.), camp subsidies and camper scholarships for young people. Offsetting the actual costs of the camps and conferences makes them accessible to a broader group of people in the Diocese.
C.4.Youth Ministry Development
A priority of the Diocese is the development of an energetic program for youth that networks and facilitates youth ministries across the Diocese. This supports the program development funding. 2008 program expenses plan to include Provincial and National level experience for our young Episcopalians.
C.5.Bishop's Minority Scholarships
A tactical shift in resources for 2006 led to this allocation for minority scholarships designed to support and encourage ordination as an option for continued service to God's call. The 2008 budget again places these resources as need-based aid for minority students at Episcopal seminaries.
D.MISSIONS & CHURCH PLANTING Theology: Wake up! Strengthen what remains ... for I have not found your deeds complete in the sight of my God ...This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people, but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Rev. 3:2 & 2 Cor. 9:12
Strengthening the Body of Christ through the planting of new congregations and the revitalization of existing churches is an exciting undertaking. The Spirit of God working in and through us provides the Bread of Life to those who have no church. It is, in the words of one sage, "One beggar showing another beggar where to find bread."
D.1.New Missions Budget
Support for new congregations has been a diocesan priority for many years. A successful new church start requires a multi-year partnership of financial support from the Diocese, the region and local congregations. Since 2006, the operating budget has focused our resources in support of assist existing missions, especially the many new church plants.
D.2. Church Planting, Commission on
The mission of the Commission on Church Planting is to mobilize the Diocese in the planting of new churches. The commission's 20-year strategy has identified over 50 potential new church locations. While the new missions budget is dormant for new churches, the commission must maintain oversight of our next planting opportunities.
D. 3. Aid to Mission Churches
In 2008, this item will provide assistance to 25 mission churches and church plants in the diocese.
D. 4.Mountain Missions (Supported by the Reid Trust)
St. John the Baptist, Ivy; St. George's, Stanley; St. Paul's, Ingham; Emmanuel, Rapidan; Good Shepherd, Bluemont; Grace Church, Stanardsville; and McIlhaney Parish.
D. 5.Special Ministries and Other Expenses
D. 5. a. Special Reserve
Money in this budget line will be used to assist with the establishment of Iglesia de Santa Maria through debt reduction. D. 5. b. Diocesan Contribution for Scholarship & Small Church Institute
As a sponsoring diocese for the annual Carolina/Virginia Small Church Conference held in North Carolina, we provide program money and scholarships for diocesan leaders to attend. D. 5. c. CCM Miscellaneous Funds
These funds are available through the Commission on Congregational Missions in assisting mission churches which encounter unexpected expenses during the year. Experience suggests that missions significantly reducing their requests or asking for no assistance should be encouraged, but that flexible provision be made for changing and unexpected circumstances.
E. PROGRAM COMMITTEES OF THE EXECUTIVE BOARD AND DIOCESAN MINISTRIES Theology: Keep on loving each other as brothers and sisters. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering. Hebrews 13:1,2
In addition to the huge variety of programs carried out through our local parishes, these program committees support specific ministries which enable us to offer and communicate the love of God in Christ through practical caring.
E.1. Aging, Committee on
The Committee on Aging is a resource for parishes in engaging our Senior Adults for the second half of life. This work encourages and promotes continuing spiritual growth throughout the later years of life; and assists parishes in meeting the needs of their senior adult members. Annually, the Committee sponsors Fall Camp at Shrine Mont, a Senior Ministry Award in memory of The Rev. Jeanne Biggar and Ms. Elizabeth Power and a 50th wedding anniversary celebration at a convenient diocesan location.
E. 2. Communications, Committee on
Provides individual communications consultation to parishes and diocesan groups in cooperation with diocesan staff.
E. 3. Ecumenical and Interfaith Commission
Provides information and education for Parish Ecumenical Representatives; promotes and implements our LARCUM Covenant; nurtures interfaith and interchurch dialogues & encourages the priority of ecumenism in all mission & ministry of our Diocese. In 2008, a joint Lutheran/Episcopal clergy conference is planned to be held at Shrine Mont.
E. 4. Education, Committee on
Purpose is to encourage, promote, develop, coordinate and support the efforts of all who are involved in Christian education. The committee newsletter is in demand in the Diocese and beyond. Annual Parish Education Day, regional events and monthly network meetings are held for anyone interested in Christian education.
E.5. Mental Health, Committee on
Equips our churches to support and incorporate mentally ill persons & their families into the local parish, so they may find their parish to be a vehicle of God's grace to them, and that our churches are welcoming communities of faith to all. Education wil be a key element of 2008 programs, including the use of Families Throughout the Lifespan workshop materials.
E. 6. Ministries in Higher Education, Committee on
Provides an overview of current ministries on campuses within the Diocese, to determine needs for campus ministry within the Diocese. Provides programs for students and faculty involved in higher education, and in 2008, a Centerbury Retreat will be planned and lead by the involved students. Representation at a Province III College Event and diocesan council are also planned.
E. 7. Parish Youth Ministries, Committee on
Strives to enable young people to be full and active participants in the life of the Church. Organizes diocesan youth events & promotes youth involvement at the local, regional & diocesan levels. Provides staff support for Council and training & leadership in youth ministry to adults and youth around the Diocese. 2008 programs include the Bishop's Confirmation Teaching, Senior High Weekend, Happening and the Episcopal Youth Event (EYE) which will be held this July in San Antonio.
E. 8. Parish Nurses, Task Force on
Provides resources to parishes for setting up and maintaining a health ministry committee and/or parish nurse ministry.
E. 9. Prison Ministry, Task Force on
In prior years, the Prison Ministry Task Force has been a collaborative effort among the three dioceses in Virginia to effectively minister to our brothers and sisters incarcerated in the Virginia penal system.
E. 10. Race Relations, Committee on
Supports the Diocese, its churches, committees, commissions and related organizations in eliminating racism and encouraging cultural diversity, recognizing and incorporating the diverse & enriching gifts of all races and cultures. Ongoing, innovative exchange work with the Diocese of Liverpool highlights this committee's work. 2008 looks to focus on the next step for this committee.
E. 11. Stewardship, Committee on
Assists parishes in stewardship by teaching the Biblical principles of Christian Stewardship and by planning a year-round stewardship program.
E. 12. Stewardship of Creation, Committee on the
Develops teaching materials and other resources for use at the diocesan, parish and personal levels to encourage people to identify ways in which they can become better stewards of the environment. 2008 will see a conference called "Care of Creation" with ties to Millenium Development Goals, as well as sustainability and clean energy.
E. 13. Women in Mission and Ministry, Committee on
These funds will enable the committee to reproduce and distribute curriculum to empower women within the congregations in their ministry and mission. The committee seeks to raise up awareness of the opportunities in both ordained and lay ministry. A highlight of each year is the Annual Clergywomen's Breakfast at Annual Council. Also planned for 2008 is a Women's Leadership Workshop to be held in October.
E. 14. Program Development and Committee Support
Provides funds for the Diocesan Program Director to use to develop diocesan programs.
E. 15. Human Need, Commission on
Established in 1989 by the 194th Annual Council as a voluntary fund to provide one-time grants (seed money) to local churches, clusters of churches, or regions, for programs which address human need. Particular emphasis is placed on volunteer hours and local supervision as well as accountability. Since 1989, this fund has disbursed over $650,000 in grants for programs addressing human need. As no direct contributions to the fund are used to cover administrative expenses, this amount allows for expenses to manage the program oversight. This is a component of the diocesan effort to meet a 0.7% asking for Millenium Development Goals.
E. 16. Education for Ministry Fee
Education for Ministry is a comprehensive four-year program based on the core curriculum of the School of Theology of the University of the South. Lay persons meet weekly with a mentor to become confident in a thorough understanding of Scripture and the Christian tradition, to learn to find God's presence in everyday life and to decide how to live in response to that presence. This line item is primarily the cost of the diocesan contract with Sewanee which dramatically reduces diocesan participant program tuition.
E.17. Emergency Preparedness, Task Force on
This Task Force completed their work in 2007.
F. CANONICAL MINISTRIES AND BISHOP'S COMMISSIONS Theology: It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors, and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Ephesians 4:11-13
Identifying and honoring the call and training of men and women for lay and ordained ministry in the Church is an essential and joyful aspect of our diocesan life. All baptized Christians are called to the ministry of Jesus Christ.
F. 1. Ministry, Commission on
While the work of the Commission on Ministry is focused on broad oversight and coordination, as detailed in Title III, Section 2, the implementation of specific processes is done by the committees of the Commission.
F. 1. a. Committee on Discernment
Mission is to develop and oversee the discernment process of both lay and ordained ministries: recruit, train and support Diocesan Spiritual Discernment Facilitators; design and deliver Diocesan Discernment Retreats; provide advice and counsel to the Bishop on matters related to discernment; serve as a resource on discernment for the diocese. F. 1. b. Committee on Ministry in Daily Life
Develop and oversee policies and programs that affirm and develop the ministry of all baptized persons. F. 1. c. Committee on Leadership Formation
Develop and oversee the policies and procedures for leadership formation for laity, deacons, and priests; develop and oversee the Episcopal Leadership Institute; develop and present Campfire Conferences; provide advice and counsel to the Bishop on matters related to leadership formation; serve as a resources on leadership formation to the diocese. F.1. d. Committee on Diaconate
Develop and oversee the process for the formation of the vocational deaconate. This is the result of a resolution recommending implementation of the vocational diaconate as a separate but equal order of clergy in the diocese. F. 1. e. Committee on Priesthood
The priestly formation process is the focus of this committee. F. 1. f. Young Priests Initiative
Responsible for the recruitment, selection and oversight of persons under 25 years of age, who are exploring a possible call to priesthood. F. 1. g. Diocesan Board of Examining Chaplains
Review and evaluate the General Ordination Examinations (GOEs) for persons seeking priesthood. F.1.h. Committee on Continuing Clergy Formation
In 2008, COM begins oversight of the work of this committee that develops and administers the Fresh Start program for newly ordained clergy and clergy new to the Diocese.
F.2.Addiction & Recovery, Commission on
F.3.Congregational Development, Commission on
This commission has expanded the work of the Vista Task Force assigned to create a strategic plan and provide resources for congregations in the development of their mission. The budget provides resources for an annual contract with Percept, Inc., Parish Development Overnight conferences, consultants and matching funds for revisioning processes.
F.4.Liturgy and Church Music, Commission on
Using diocesan guidelines, plans and implements diocesan worship services and represents the Diocese at the National Liturgical Conference.
F. 5. Standing Committee
Exists by Canon to help conduct the constitutional affairs of the Diocese. It is a board of counsel and advice to the Bishop. Participates in the process toward ordination, the approval process for incurring church debt, and giving and withholding of consent for the consecration of new bishops. In rare cases, it may act as the ecclesiastical authority.
F.6.South African Partnership, Commission for
A group of concerned clergy and lay persons committed to fostering & nurturing a relationship and joint venture in ministry between the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia and the Anglican Diocese of Christ the King.
F. 7. Province III Representation
Province III deputies represent the Diocese of Virginia at provincial Council and Synod meetings. Representatives are elected by Annual Council. The expense is primarily an assessment based on baptized members, plus a small allocation for the expenses of our deputies.
F. 8. Meetings and Expenses of the Executive Board, Deans, Presidents and the Budget Committee
The canonical responsibilities of the Executive Board include carrying out the directions of Annual Council between sessions of Council, oversight of the budget adopted by Council, submitting a proposed budget to Council, oversight of inactive churches, approval of sale of property belonging to the Bishop, the Trustees of the Diocese or mission church property.
F.9.Prevention of Sexual Misconduct, Commission on
This commission provides training for the prevention of sexual misconduct and assists the Bishops in responding to individuals and congregations when misconduct or allegations of misconduct occur. 2008 will see the implementation of the new web-based training modules developed by the Church Pension Group.
F.10.Professional Standards and Support, Commission on
As of 2008, the work of this commission has been assumed by the Committee on Continuing Clergy Formation of the Commission on Ministry.
F.11.World Mission, Commission on
This commission's work is in sponsoring, scheduling, and supporting domestic and foreign mission trips for youth and adults so that they may live out the great commission. The long-term goal is to reduce program budgetary asking to administrative only, much like the Diocesan Fund for Human Need, and allocate the income from the Diocesan Fund for World Mission endowment managed by the Trustees of the Funds.
G. NON-ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES OF MAYO HOUSE
G. 1. Clergy & Diocesan Conferences
This line supports those conferences held for both clergy and laity, both at Roslyn and Shrine Mont. 2008 programs will include the Administrative Professionals Retreat, Healthy Congregations Workshops, spring and fall clergy conferences and the Small Parish Retreat.
G. 2 VE & Communications Expenses
Expenses associated with producing six issues of the VIRGINIA EPISCOPALIAN, the online e-COMMUNIQUE, other publications and flyers, as well as web page support.
G. 3. Insurance for Churches & Organizations
This line item covers the Blanket Fidelity Bond which covers all church-authorized employees who handle money, as well as the liability and property insurance for vacant and undeveloped buildings and land.
G.4. Real Estate Tax (Undeveloped Land)
This item covers the real estate taxes on the undeveloped church site properties owned by the diocese.
G. 5. Clergy Deployment Expenses
Costs incurred by the Deployment Office including consultant subsidies for congregations needing assistance and the costs of background checks for churches unable to afford those costs. Publication costs of church and clergy search manuals are incorporated under this line.
G. 6.General Convention Representation
This line transfers annually an amount to the reserve account to pay the costs for deputies to travel to General Convention every three years. The travel expense for diocesan staff is paid from the regular travel accounts.
H. BISHOPS, COMMUNICATIONS, STAFF, & SUPPORT
Theology: Now we ask you, brothers (and sisters), to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work … 1 Thes. 5:12, 13
The ministry of Bishops is the heart and core of what it means to be an Episcopal diocese. They bring with them the hearts and faith of all the Diocese to each parish in their work and ministry. They demonstrate in word and deed the possibility of incarnational love lived out in the lives of persons. Supporting them is a gifted staff with diverse talents.
H. 1. The Episcopate
H. 1. a. Bishops
This category covers the majority of compensation (salary, housing, social security, pension, health & life insurance) for the bishops. 2008 returns the diocese to a full year of three bishops. The clergy compensation minimum, as in past years, is used for 2008 compensation. The Episcopal Fund pays for much of the pension expenses of the Bishops. H. 1. b. Assistants to the Bishops
This category covers total compensation for 3 Administrative Assistants, the Deployment Officer, Youth Ministry officer, one-third of the Diocesan Program Director, the Coordinator of the Ordination Process and the Bishop's clerk. H. 1. c. Other expenses of the Office of the Bishop
This line covers hiring Assisting Bishops for parish visitations, and other miscellaneous expenses of the Bishops' offices.
H.2. Staff
H.2. a. Other Staff
This category funds the staff costs for diocesan program and administration. It reflects the total compensation and benefits of 11 full-time positions (Treasurer, Secretary of the Diocese, Communications Assistant, Financial Administrator, Benefits Administrator, Accounting Assistant, Assistant Program Officer, two full-time Administrative Assistant, Receptionist, and Mailroom/Maintenance Clerk), half of the expenses of the Stewardship and Development office, and a one half-time time Administrative Assistant. H. 2. b. Temporary Assistance
The covers temporary assistance during the year to maintain a high standard of customer service ministry.
H.3. Support
H. 3. a. Automobile and Other Travel Expense
This category supports diocesan travel for the bishops and staff, including automobile costs, insurance, mileage reimbursements, conference registration fees, airline tickets, hotels, meals and other transportation. This also includes annual depreciation expense for diocesan vehicles. H. 3. b. Office Supplies, Equipment & Services
Costs associated with the Mayo House and northern Virginia offices are funded here. Expenses include telephones, printing, postage, copying, office equipment, service, supplies and maintenance. Annual depreciation of office equipment is included. H. 3. c. Building-Related Expenses
Expenses related to the upkeep of Mayo Memorial Church House are recorded here, including property insurance, utilities, maintenance and custodial care. H. 3. d. Professional Fees
This category covers costs of the annual audit of the diocesan books and an allowance for legal expenses. H. 3. e. Other Operating Expenses
Expenses in this category includes disability insurance for diocesan staff and miscellaneous expenses of operating Mayo House. H. 3. f. Reserve Accounts
These reserve accounts include allowances for the Bishops attending the Lambeth Conference ($4,000), the Mayo House building & equipment reserve ($7,725); and the auto replacement fund ($7,500).
I. Micro-Economic Development Projects
The Budget Committee of the Executive Board hopes to respond to domestic and foreign micro-economic initiatives when these funds are available. The Budget Committee hopes to maintain these funds, in conjunction with DFHN and DFWM, at a level consistent with the general Church resolution guidelines of 0.7% of unrestricted income.
J.Capital Campaign Expenses
The Fifth Century Fund campaign is closed, although ongoing support of Mustard Seed Grants is conducted through the work of the Stewardship and Development Office.
K. Episcopal Transition Fund
With the election of Bishop Johnston in 2007, there is no longer a need for this item in the 2008 budget.
L. Interest Expense
This budget line covers the Interest expense and fees related to the line of credit acquired by the diocese. This line of credit was established to provide adequate cash flow during 2007 and 2008 in light of increased legal expenses. This line item is being funded by restricted income from the Episcopal Fund.