In the United States, 1984 has just ended with a 14.5% increase over 1983. This is a good increase compared to recent years. In 1982 the Church had an increase of 11.2%, and in 1983 an increase of 12%. Other organizations would probably consider our increase exceptional. We should all be thankful to God who supplies these funds according to the need and how our ways please Him.
Even though the year's increase was good, December's income dropped off considerably from what we had expected. Compared to the previous December, the increase was only 1.3%. Though the monthly trend was down, January 1985 has started off with an excellent increase over last January.
On the expense side of the ledger, we finished the year considerably less than 1% over budget. This was quite an accomplishment when you consider that the departments collectively were about $3.5 million over budget about three months earlier. The department managers really went all out to correct this overage with concern and real "team effort."
Our reserves have improved appreciably over a year ago, though still too low, in my opinion. We hope to correct this condition by allocating more of the budget to reserves in 1985. The departments are also being asked to delay any discretionary expenses until after the spring or even the fall festivals to improve our cash flow condition.
The 1985 budget has been set, except for a few minor areas, and will now serve as a guide for the new year. It provides very little increase for most departments, except for Publishing Services and Media Purchasing. There are still urgent needs in some departments, particularly Ministerial Services and Mail Processing, that cannot be met at this time. We hope and pray that income for 1985 will be far enough above budget to allocate additional funds to these departments later in the year. Your concern and prayers for this are appreciated.
REPORT FROM THE TREASURER'S OFFICE
Worldwide Church of God