Ways to Give
Giving is one of the ways we respond to God’s goodness in our lives. Scripture reminds us that God does not need our money, He desires our hearts (Matt. 6:21). As followers of Jesus, we are called to give cheerfully, regularly, and sacrificially, reflecting our trust in Him and our love for His Kingdom (2 Cor. 8–9).
Below, you’ll find the practical ways you can give, whether in person, online, or through other simple methods. We’re grateful for every expression of generosity that helps support the ministries and mission of our church.
Offering Bags
Two bags are passed during the Collection. The first bag (green): “B” (for Budget), General Fund/Ministry Shares of the Denomination. The second bag (red): Weekly collection for various causes.
In our evening services, offerings may be placed in boxes at the back of the church.
Donating Electronically
There are several ways to donate electronically, including e-transfer, The Bridge App and Direct Deposit.
E-transfer
E-transfer can be sent to treasurer@stratfordcrc.org. Donations will be automatically deposited. Please include in the message where the donation is to be directed: for example – General Fund, Ministry Shares, Deacons Fund or for the second collection (please put the name and/or date). If there is no message it will be divided between General Fund and Ministry Shares.
The Bridge
The Bridge App can also process your donations through its secure platform. Click here to donate.
Pre-Authorized Debit
Pre-Authorized Debit authorizes the bank to withdraw money from your bank account on a monthly basis to be placed in either the General Fund or a Trust fund for Ministry Shares. If you are interested in this option, a Pre-Authorized Debit Agreement can be made available on request. If you would like to sign up for this option, contact the treasurer Vanessa Koskamp.
Vouchers
Year end tax statements are issued for Vouchers. Cash can only be tracked to the giver if it is in numbered envelopes. To fill out a Voucher Request Form, please include the # of Vouchers for each dollar denomination, Grand Total and Your Envelope Number. Put Cash/Cheque with Voucher Request in an envelope and place in either Collection Bag. Within a few weeks the Counting Committee will have placed your vouchers in your mail slot.
The Total in Cash or Cheque for all vouchers are put into a Trust Fund. When you contribute to a specific cause, the vouchers are counted and moved from the Trust Fund to the Specific Cause Vouchers can be put into either Collection bag. Use your Vouchers like cash in the Offering Bags.
The total amount of Vouchers you request will be recorded and added to your end of year Tax Statement Vouchers cannot be carried over to the next year (you will still receive full amount purchased on your Tax Statement).
Church Envelopes
Each member receives a box of envelopes every December with an identification number. Your envelopes allow you to direct your offerings and receive a tax receipt. Second collection designations can be made on the “other” line of the envelope.
Multiple designations for second collection can be made on one envelope. One cheque can be written and causes specified.It is not necessary to write multiple cheques or use multiple envelopes.
If you forget your envelope, please mark your cheques with your envelope number which allows the counting committee to correctly designate your donations and allows for anonymity.
Unmarked envelopes are designated as follows: 80% goes to the General Fund and 20% goes to Ministry Shares.
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
2 Corinthians 9:7-8