Frequently Asked Questions

"Can’t we have the St. Lorenz Foundation pay most of our expenses?"

The Foundation is indeed a very generous contributor to the ministries of St. Lorenz and makes it possible for us to do more than we would otherwise be able to. Its Board of Directors is composed of St. Lorenz members who work very hard to support the work of our congregation. However, it is an independent organization that is not directed by St. Lorenz leaders. The Board considers grant requests each year and determines which of those requests it will be able to fund.

Sometimes that funding provides direct support for operating expenses. In 2007, a little over $3.5 million was spent by our Operating Fund. The Foundation granted about $200,000 toward those costs (6%). Support for Operating Fund expenses for 2008 will be around $250,000.

In addition to support for Operating Fund expenses, the Foundation also is instrumental in funding special projects that enhance ministry here, but which are not a part of the Operating Fund budget. For 2008, the Foundation is providing support for such things as our Student Aid Fund, landscaping at church, our new church parking lot, a special stewardship emphasis this fall, building improvements at our Caring Ministries Center, some youth projects, marketing for our school, and many more.

We thank our Foundation for its generous support, but do not rely on it to fund a major portion of our ministry.