FAQs

Does the church have any other loans?

No, these are the only loans. The Church owns the building and property.

Can the church operating budget afford the loan payments from 2022 to 2028?

Yes, we are currently making these payments now on both loans and will continue paying off the remaining loan with the addition of the loan payments from the paid off smaller loan. 

Will this payment reduce the ministry we have been involved in?

No, we will still be able to maintain our current ministry obligations with the hope of increasing ministry as the church grows and the remaining debt is paid down.

Who oversees the church finances?

The Lead Pastor and Executive Pastor under the guidance and direction of the Elder Board. 

How are annual budgets developed and approved? 

The Lead Pastor, Executive Pastor, and Staff develop the annual budget. The Elder Board reviews and oversees the development with input and insight. The Elder Board approves and votes on the final Budget each year.

Are the church finances reviewed by an outside accounting firm?

Yes, each year an outside Accounting Firm examines the church financial books and prepares a report for the Elders.

Why do we rent space to a school during the week?

We believe in maximizing the use of our facility. The school has been renting space from New Life since 2013 and is currently in the middle of a five-year lease. The rental income helps fund New Life ministries. 

Will we do another campaign in future years?

The goal is to pay off the final loan balance by 2028 through each year’s operating budget. The leadership does not anticipate the need to engage another capital campaign to pay off the loan.

Will the church ever go in debt again?

This is the second time the church has gone into debt. The first was when we purchased the building. So, we have no plans on ever borrowing money again. If we have an emergency or a ministry opportunity, we will go to the congregation to meet the need while discerning if it is part of God’s plan for New Life.

Are the contributions and donations toward this campaign tax deductible?

Yes, just as any donation to the church is, this too is tax deductible. We always suggest you consult your tax adviser.

What happens if more money is received in donations than required to pay off this first loan?

Donations received to this campaign over and above the amount needed will be used to pay down the principal on the second loan.

Who are the current Elders?

Jeff Schafer, Stu VanMeveren, Dan Bongard, Greg Kraak, and Pastor Tom Olson.

Size of staff and number of Pastors?

There are 9 full-time staff, of which 5 are Pastors. We also have 3 half-time staff and 3 quarter-time staff, one of which is a Pastor. (See Staff and Elder pages)