An amended 2009 budget was approved by the diocesan Executive Board on Thursday, May 7 that reflected an adjustment for the $335,000 shortfall from the anticipated budged presented during the 2009 Annual Council. The significant decrease in pledges from congregations to the diocese made it necessary to adjust the programs and services provided, reorganize and reduce staff and decrease support of the national church, Chanco on the James, communications and other programs. Only the financial support from the diocesan budget for youth ministry services was not considered for adjustment.<\/p>\n
Based on the needs of the congregations in the diocese for services and support programs, and after factoring in income from investments, the Executive Board in the Fall of 2008 requested that each parish contribute nine percent of its previous year\u2019s pledge and plate income to support the programs, outreach, education and parish services provided through the diocese. The 2009 budget approved at Annual Council reflected the move to a permanent bishop, a youth missioner, an increase in the contribution toward the ministry of the national church, chaplains, outreach, and other programs.<\/p>\n