What is the Intentional Giving Pledge Drive?

It is time for the EBCRS community to assess how members and friends will contribute financially in 2023. East Bay’s operational spending plan is based on what is supported and collected. By making your pledge, East Bay has an indication of the funding available for 2023.

What is the goal of this year’s Pledge Drive?

$572,192.00

How do I know how much to pledge?

We encourage you to prayerfully consider what feels right to you, given your personal situation. Some people will choose a specific dollar amount while others will choose to tithe 10% of their gross income. Listen to your heart and give what you think is the right amount for you.

When is my pledge, or my online intention to give, due for 2023?

Our target date is June 1, 2023. By completing and submitting a pledge form or pledging online at www.ebcrs.org you support our budget projection for 2023. However, we accept pledges all year.

How does money I give to EBCRS differ from that to charity?

In terms of taxes, it is the same. Any money given to East Bay Church and identified as your pledge, gift, tithe, or offering is tax deductible. In terms of spiritual practice, there is a difference. Giving or tithing as a spiritual practice suggests giving to what spiritually feeds you. It is a way to experience the “law of circulation” in your life, which recognizes that the Universe is abundant and that “as we give, we receive.”

Where does the money I give to the EBCRS go?

Your contribution to EBCRS pays for basic day-to-day operational expenses. This includes staff, building and facilities costs, Sunday services, Community Outreach, Youth and Family Programs, prayer support, and many free groups and services. Your gift allows the EBCRS to expand its services, impacting a broader audience with our teachings.

May I give my time and service to EBCRS rather than a financial contribution?

EBCRS relies on both the financial resources and the generous gift of service that many community members provide. The time, talent, and treasure of our congregants vitalize our community. Every gift, regardless of size, makes a difference in fulfilling our vision of reaching people with our teaching.

What is tithing and why is it 10%? Where did the practice of giving 10% come from?

Tithing is based on an ancient spiritual practice from the Bible. To “tithe” is to give the first 10% of your gross income to the place where you are spiritually fed. Tithing is a way to put God first and practice trusting God as your source. Many people also find that tithing is a tangible way to express gratitude for all that has been provided. It is a way of sharing your good.

What if I only come to the EBCRS occasionally? Should I still make a pledge or gift?

If EBCRS has positively impacted your life, we encourage you to make a financial contribution. Any level of support that you provide allows the EBCRS to continue to serve our community and reach more people with our teaching.

How do you know I am contributing to my pledge?

When you use personal checks, the Kiosk, or credit cards, we automatically apply that gift to your pledge. When you donate cash, use the envelopes under chair seats in the Sanctuary and include your name in the space provided. We will also send you quarterly updates so that you can monitor your progress.

Can you charge me automatically?

Yes, we can! Fill out the Automatic Giving Program section of the Intentional Giving Card. Indicate the amount and whether your payment is weekly, monthly or one-time. Note: A new credit card authorization is required each year, even if you filled out a form last year and your information has not changed. You can also create an account online and have the funds automatically withdrawn as you desire. Please visit our website to get started.

Can I give online?

Yes you can! To set up your online Planned Giving, please go here and set up your reoccurring pledge.

Do I have to become a member to pledge?

No, but we would love you to become a member of the East Bay. For membership information, please email us at administration@ebcrs.org or contact our church office at 510.420.1003.

We invite you to support our church’s mission through your financial contributions.
Please complete the form below to set your Intentional Giving for our 2023 Give, Grow, Glow Giving program.

You Can Make Your Pledge by Filling Out the Online Form Below or
Download Our Fillable PDF File Using the Button Below
Please make checks payable to East Bay Church of Religious Science. Mail Checks to 4130 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609

Thank you for your commitment and support to our church community.
We pray that God blesses you abundantly for your generosity.

About Your Donation

At the East Bay Church of Religious Science, we are contributing to a greater good… starting right here at home!

As a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, our spiritual community is sustained almost entirely by the contributions of members and friends.

Our tax ID is 942220113 and you may receive a non-profit tax exemption for your contribution. If you would like to donate to East Bay, you may do so in a number of ways, with or without setting up an account.

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