PASTORAL & STAFF COMPENSATION FUND
Dear C4 ‘Ohana,
Wouldn’t you agree that we have been blessed with awesome pastors and staff who have been called to spiritually lead our C4 community!
I am blessed to communicate to you that our C4 Council has unanimously decided to form a pastoral and staff compensation restricted fund to augment the total compensation for those who are called to spiritually lead our community. Our initial focus with this fund is to increase the salaries of our C4 management team to the median based on national survey data (i.e., based on job description, size of church and location) and to start contributing to a retirement fund for the entire staff.
Typically, our pastor and staff compensation (salary increases and bonuses) are determined at the end of the year after all capital and ministry expenditures. However, it’s my heart and calling to steward the compensation for our staff with more strategic intention. I believe you agree with me that our pastors and staff deserve to be fairly compensated!
While our preference is to provide the increases from our general budget, the global pandemic along with our overall expenses (i.e., Kahala Mall rent), does not give us the margins to address this issue. Moreover, I am believing in faith that there are members in our community who are called to partner with us to address this issue today. Our longer-term intent is to include these items in our overall operating budget.
While the church has been financially impacted by the global pandemic, I know many individuals and businesses have thrived and are willing to be generous toward this worthy cause. As a church, we wish to be generous in every way including to our C4 staff. The bible says in 1 Corinthians 9:14, “In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” In 1 Tim 5:17-18, “the laborer is worthy of his wages.”
If you would like to personally partner with me in giving an offering (above your normal tithe), you can do so in the following ways:
1. You can make an online (there is a drop-down option) contribution to the Pastor and Staff Compensation Fund. You can click here or visit the C4 mobile app.
2. You can drop off or mail in a check payable to C4 and write Pastor and Staff Compensation Fund in the memo.
We will keep you updated on the impact you are making through your contribution. We want to be known as a generous church where our staff know they are appreciated and treated with double honor. Grateful for each of you!
Blessings,
Creighton
The Vision of the Pastoral & Staff Compensation Fund
Senior Pastor Creighton Arita discusses the new Pastoral & Staff Compensation Fund with council members Ken Hayashida, Brandon Lau and Nick Abbott. Please take a look at this important new financial initiative.
FAQs
How was this Pastor and Staff Compensation Plan developed?
It was developed by our C4 Council. Specifically, we formed a task force to look at this issue with industry experts. The task force subsequently presented its plan to the Council where it was reviewed and approved unanimously. As an ECFA (Evangelical Council of Financial Accountability) certified church, we also used resources provided by the ECFA national organization.
What is the financial target for this fund?
We are hoping to raise $85-$100K annually to address and solve the gap in staff salaries and to start providing some retirement benefits to the staff as well. Our initial priority is on closing the salary gap but once that is accomplished our ultimate goal is to shift the impact toward increasing the retirement benefit for the staff.
How much should I contribute?
Any contribution amount is valued and appreciated. We are also believing God will raise up at least 15 donors called to make a $5000 + contribution to this fund. For those donating to $5K+, we would like to provide a celebration dinner with the staff as a hearty thank you!
Is our donation to this restricted fund tax-deductible?
Yes, your donation will be tax-deductible.
What is the focus of the Pastor and Staff Compensation Fund?
This restricted fund is focused around pastor and staff total compensation and enrichment. For example, total compensation would include salary & bonuses, retirement benefits, leadership and training, long-term care and disability insurance, spiritual renewal, etc.