Giving to AMBS increases

Giving to Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary during the 2008–2009 year increased over the previous year.

Contributions to the AMBS Annual Fund, which covers operating expenses, were up 5.82 percent, resulting in $1,457,811 in 2008–2009, compared to $1,377,633 in 2007–2008.

An increase in alumni giving helped create this result. The number of alumni making contributions grew from 413 to 573, and their gifts increased 30 percent to $161,848. In addition, giving from faculty, staff and board members increased by 40 percent to $70,621.

“In a difficult financial environment, many people gave more,” Nelson Kraybill, AMBS president, said. “It is an extraordinary sign of commitment and grace. Thanks be to God.”

He continued, “There are people all across Canada and the United States who realize the urgency of preparing congregational and missional leaders. The financial support for this pastoral and theological seminary shows that the church is taking this seriously. We will do our part to partner with congregations to provide the best training possible.“

In spite of the increases, giving fell short of the goal for the year, which was $1,715,000. One noted decrease was in giving from congregations and conferences; that total dropped by almost 10 percent.

Estate gifts have not yet been counted in the annual giving total, because these gifts are used for long-term investments if possible. A portion of each estate gift will be added to the Annual Fund so all expenses for the year will be covered.

For the 2009–2010, there are several ways the seminary will maintain fiscal strength. Employees have pledged to give five percent of their earnings back to the seminary for the year, a total of approximately $106,000. Where possible, expenses will be cut, and some savings will occur from normal changes in staff and activities.

“The employees’ pledge to give back to AMBS shows a measure of our willingness to sacrifice along with others in a time of economic uncertainty,” Kraybill explained.

July 2009 / Mary E. Klassen