by David Washburn, BGAV Treasurer

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As we gather for our annual meeting, I’m presenting a budget that reflects both the realities of our current economic environment and our unwavering commitment to the mission we share. This year’s budget maintains the same funding level as last year—a flat budget that requires honest conversation and strategic thinking.

A flat budget in times of inflation means we’re effectively working with less purchasing power. This isn’t the news any of us hoped to share, but it reflects the financial landscape many BGAV churches are navigating. Giving patterns have shifted, operational costs have risen, and economic uncertainty affects every congregation in our association. Rather than stretch beyond sustainable limits or defer critical needs, we’re choosing fiscal responsibility that protects our long-term ministry capacity.

Many of you are feeling similar pressures in your own congregations. Grocery bills have risen, utility costs have climbed, and families in your pews are making difficult choices. You understand firsthand that a flat budget today means stretching resources further than they went last year. I see you, and I want you to know that this budget reflects both the financial season we’re in and our commitment to walking through it with wisdom and faith.

This approach demonstrates strength, not scarcity. By maintaining a stable budget, we preserve the core ministries that serve over 1,200 churches while avoiding risky financial decisions that could compromise our future. We’re prioritizing what matters most: resourcing pastors, strengthening congregations, and advancing the gospel through sustainable means.

What does this mean practically? We’re maximizing efficiency in every department, eliminating redundancies, and focusing resources on high-impact initiatives. We’re leveraging technology to reduce costs while improving resource delivery. We’re fostering collaboration between churches to share resources and expertise. These aren’t merely budget adjustments; they’re strategic refinements that make us more effective.

This budget also calls each of us to deeper partnership. When financial resources plateau, local church engagement becomes even more vital. Your continued financial support, volunteer leadership, and active participation in BGAV initiatives ensure we accomplish together what no single church could achieve alone.

History teaches us that the church has never been defined by abundance of resources but by faithfulness with what God provides. Some of our most fruitful ministry seasons have emerged from constraint, when creativity and collaboration replaced comfort and convenience.

As we approve this budget, we’re not accepting limitation—we’re embracing focus. We’re declaring that our mission remains unchanged even when our methods must adapt. We’re trusting that God’s provision is sufficient for what he’s called us to do. Our association has weathered challenges before. We’ll navigate this season with the same faith, wisdom, and unity that have sustained us for years. Together in confidence, we embrace mission forward with strength and stability.

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