As we reflect on 2024, we recognize the blessings and growth at Franklin United Methodist Church (UMC). This year we have achieved so much together.
Our Community @FranklinUMC outreach has reached a growing number of individuals. It strengthens our community by encouraging people to meet, serve, and share with their neighbors. Our Community Closet has helped over 330 individuals. We’ve fed over 200 people at our Community Cookouts. Over 150 people have enjoyed uplifting music through our first three Concerts at Franklin UMC. We have deepened our connection with Aprende Spanish Immersion and Tri-Valley, Inc. We support Meals on Wheels. We also open our doors to various groups. This includes four Girls Scout troops and Rise Up (a community of support for those living with disability). As we look to 2025, we invite you to join us in supporting our vision of being a community where all can find meaningful relationship with God, grow in Christ, and reach out in love to others; a community where all can love and be loved; a community where you are accepted as you are. Your contribution, regardless of size, makes a significant impact.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
- Year-End Gift: Consider making a year-end donation to help us close out 2024 on a strong note. See below for creative ways of making a year-end gift. Donations can be made online here. Checks can be sent via USPS to the church (PO Box 313, Franklin, MA 02038). Make them payable to the Franklin United Methodist Church.
- Pledge for 2025: Your pledge for the upcoming year helps us plan and allocate resources effectively. Pledges can be made by clicking this link.
We understand that not everyone can contribute financially, and we deeply appreciate your involvement in other ways. However, if you are able, your financial support would be greatly valued.
Thank you for your continued support, involvement, and the many ways you contribute to our shared life together. If you have any questions about the church, how you can become more involved, or you just want to chat, please do not hesitate to reach out to Pastor Jacob.
Have a blessed holiday season and happy new year! We hope you’ll join us for worship during the Advent season and on Christmas Eve at 7p.
Creative Strategies for Giving at the End of the Year
The United Methodist Foundation of New England (UMFNE) exists to support the mission and ministries of New England churches, individuals and the New England Conference of the United Methodist Church. They connect churches with resources and each other in innovative ways to help expand capacity and ministries. UMFNE offers the following year-end giving ideas for you to consider:
- Consult a Tax Advisor: Individuals can evaluate giving plans and decide whether to make additional gifts before the year ends. Consulting with a tax advisor before the end of the year can help maximize both charitable gifts and tax benefits.
- Gifts of Stocks or Mutual Funds: Donating appreciated stock or mutual funds is an excellent way to make a year-end gift. Donors can avoid capital gains taxes and still receive a tax-deductible gift. For more information on how to give a gift of stock, contact Michael Chasse at 800-595-4347 x101 or email [email protected].
- Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD): Individuals over the age of 70 ½ with an IRA can take advantage of the Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). Giving from your IRA is a great way to support your church and lower your taxes. This year, donors can give up to $105,000 from their IRA to their church. Simply contact the institution holding your IRA and request an amount to be sent directly to your church. This qualified charitable contribution is not taxed to the donor. Additionally, the QCD rules allow donors seeking more income to transfer up to $53,000 from their IRA to purchase a gift annuity from the Foundation. For more information about gift annuities, please contact Gary Melville at 800-595-4347 x103 or email [email protected].
- Reviewing Estate Plans: Year-end is an excellent time to review your estate plans and consider bequests to our church.
To learn more about The United Methodist Foundation of New England, go to www.umfne.org.