Recognition/Memorial Program Policy

INTRODUCTION:

In recognition or memory of persons, individuals, families, groups of friends, business associates and others. May establish a memorial or dedicate a gift to the church.

SELECTION OF USE:

The selection of use for a gift will be subject to mutual acceptance by the donor and the church. For example, certain ornamentation, appointments, statues, and other items normally associated with other denominational churches, sects or religions, may not be ordinarily appropriate in a United Methodist Church. Also, items of functional or esthetic value should be of specification and design suitable to and harmonious with items currently in use, or items planned to be in use, and with the general architectural design of the physical structure. If a selection of use by the donor is not made within one year,  the church will make the selection at its discretion.

TRANSFER OF FUND:

Initially and until implementation, the funds provided for a gift will be deposited in a special fund account, and expenditures for the item should be paid from this account.

RECORD OF GIFTS:

The Endowment Fund Committee will maintain  permanent records of all such gifts in a memorial book.

PLAQUES, PLATES, LABELS, ETC:

Inscribed plates or plaques should not be placed on gifts. In case of books, hymnals, etc., precedence has been established and dedication labels should continue to be used in the inside covers. A plaque listing recognition and memorial gifts of $25 or more will be displayed in the church building. (The bells for the Bell Choir are constructed with a plaque on each bell.)  Placement of the plaque will be determined by the Trustees.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF CONTRIBUTION:

Acknowledgment of contributions shall be made within a month of receipt in a formal and standardized manner.

ADMINISTRATION:

The Endowment Fund Committee shall administer the Program. The Finance Committee shall make recommendations to the Church Council and proposed items should be subject to review with appropriate and effected organizational units.

PROGRAM PUBLICITY:

A listing of suggested gifts shall be reviewed, updated and published periodically by the Endowment Fund Committee.