Heartland and Money

What does Heartland believe about money?

• God owns all things and trusts us to use them to bless Him and other people. (Deuteronomy 10:14/Psalm 24:1)
• Jesus identified money as a spiritual issue in our lives. (In fact, over 2000 Scripture passages refer to money, including over half of Jesus’ parables.) (I Timothy 6:10)
• Tithing is a discipline that helps us to grow spiritually. (Malachi 3:10/Philippians 4:17/II Corinthians 9:6-15)
• God is a generous and sacrificial giver. (Ephesians 1:7-9; 3:14-21/I Timothy 6:17-19)
• The church should be accountable to both God and people. (II Corinthians 8:21)

For additional Biblical principles on money, visit Generous Giving Website.

How is money spent at Heartland?

We use financial resources given to the church to advance our mission of building a church for the unchurched. Monies support, weekly services, children's, youth and adult ministries, care and counseling as well as services, classes, special events, staff salaries and training, and the general operation of our church. Each year we have an additional "Year End Gift" to support a special initiative of the church. We recommend supporting the church first with your tithe (a tenth) and then using "above and beyond giving" to support the building fund (e.g. go. Campaign), missions and special initiatives.

How is the church accountable?

The church has a team of elders called the Trustees comprised marketplace professionals from within our church. They help to insure that the financial, property and legal affairs of the church are handled responsibly and with integrity. Each year the church hires an independent accounting firm to audit our finances. Their findings are reviewed by a volunteer Audit Review Team who make recommendations for the coming year. The audit is reviewed and approved each year by the trustees.

What is the ECFA?

We are members of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability, a national non-profit accreditation agency with the highest standards of financial integrity and accountability. We are one of just a handful of churches in the Kansas City area to achieve this level of accreditation. A copy of our ECFA approval letter for our most recent audit may be viewed here

How does our annual budgeting process work?

A preliminary budget is prepared by the Management Team. Careful consideration is given to ensuring both adequate resources to fulfill our mission and financial oversite in order that the church is not overly focused on money. New initiatives are considered each year as we strive to be effective with our human resouces while being efficient with our material resources. Once the budget is prepared it is approved by the Trustees.

What guidelines are used in setting salaries?

General salary ranges are set by the Trustees, using marketplace standards as indicated by the National Association of Church Business Administrators (NACBA). Staff salaries are then set by the Management Team using NACBA standards and the individual's performance against stated goals and the overall faithfulness and fruitfulness of the staff member. The compensation of the Senior Pastor is proposed separately by the Advisory Team and approved by the Trustees.

Can I get a copy of the annual budget?

Yes. You are welcome to request copies of our annual budget summary. Please contact Jim Gum, our executive pastor, for an electronic copy.

What other resources does HCC offer?

• Financial Peace University
• Crown Ministries
• "The Treasure Principle," by Randy Alcorn — Also available in the Heartland bookstore.