Florida's 2007 CP shortfall reflects country's 'economic crunch,' Sullivan says

JACKSONVILLE (FBC)—Florida Baptists' giving through the Cooperative Program increased in 2007 when compared to year 2006, but for the first time since 1991 fell short of the year's budget requirements.

In 2007, Florida Baptist churches gave $39,611,758 through the Cooperative Program to fund mission and ministry needs in Florida and around the world, nearly a half percent ahead of the previous year's receipts of $39,443,813. But the amount received lagged more than $1.537 million or 3.47 percent behind the approved 2007 Cooperative Program budget of $41,035,016.

John Sullivan, executive director-treasurer of the Florida Baptist Convention, attributed the budget shortfall to the economic climate in the state and nation. "These are tough times financially for many of our Baptist families," said Sullivan. "As our families struggle, so do our churches." As a result of his twice weekly visits to churches across the state, Sullivan said he has seen first hand budget revisions and reductions taking place within Florida Baptist congregations.

To make up for the $1.5 million budget shortfall, Sullivan will recommend to the State Board of Missions several "belt-tightening measures" when it meets Feb. 8. He also is expected to make recommendations to reduce the 2008 Cooperative Program budget by $1.5 million.

"We must be fiscally responsible as we practice our stewardship during this economic crunch," explained Sullivan.

"I believe Florida Baptists have been faithful in what they have given through the Cooperative Program and I rejoice and am thankful for their Great Commission commitment to our taking the Gospel into the world."

He added, "My prayer is that God will continue to bless us and guide us during these trying economic times. And that 2008 will bring a healthy and growing economy to our state and nation."

Ed Johnson, director the Convention's Cooperative Program Department, concurred with Sullivan's assessment of the root cause of the budget deficit. "Simply put, the economy has impacted Cooperative Program giving during the past year."

"Yet I want thank Florida Baptists for continuing to do the very best they can in the good times and bad to support the work of the Florida Baptist Convention and the Southern Baptist Convention through their gifts through the Cooperative Program," he added.

"I am praying for 2008 to be a great year in our churches and thus a great year for Cooperative Program giving. We have some of the greatest churches and pastors to be found anywhere. I am extremely proud to be a Florida Baptist."

Of the money received in 2007, 40 percent—or $15,777,525, was sent to the Southern Baptist Convention's Executive Committee in Nashville to fund the denominational mission and ministry plan. Half of that portion, or $7,888,762, was earmarked for the International Mission Board to support more than 5,000 missionaries sharing the Gospel message across the world - many serving in dangerous places.