
Commitment Sunday is October 26th
Why We Give
At St. John’s, we see giving as a joyful way to say “thank you” to God. Each pledge—of prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness—helps us dream big and live God’s love in our community. Every gift, large or small, sustains worship, discipleship, and outreach that transforms lives. Join us in making God’s dreams for our congregation and neighbors a reality.
As John Wesley taught:
“Earn all you can. Save all you can. Give all you can.”
Your pledge—no matter the size—sustains worship, discipleship for children and adults, outreach to our community, care for one another, and the facilities that support ministry every day of the week.
When you pledge, you’re not just supporting a budget—you’re helping St. John’s dream big, share God’s love boldly, and make a difference in the lives of neighbors near and far.
Make your pledge today and join us in living God’s dream for our congregation and community.
Your Giving at Work
Here’s how your generosity made an impact last year:
- Worship & Music Ministries – Inspiring worship experiences every Sunday and on special occasions, enhanced by our amazing music ministry that lifts our hearts and voices in praise.
- Christian Formation – Sunday School, kids, youth, and family ministries, Bible studies, seasonal events and programs, and adult discipleship.
- Missional Outreach – Shepherd’s Market client-choice food pantry, Great Turkey Giveaway, mission trips, St. Mark’s Feeding Ministry, and other local and global missions.
- Connection & Care – Communion Companions, Flower Ministry, meals, visits, cards, Coffee Time, potlucks, and other fellowship opportunities.
- Facilities & Administration – Maintaining and insuring our sanctuary, Family Life Center, classrooms, parsonage, and campus for both church and community partners.
Looking ahead, our Finance Committee is dreaming big! Our 2026 budget reflects a 6% increase to strengthen and sustain vital ministries. To help us turn this aspirational budget into a reality, we’re inviting everyone to take one faithful step forward in giving.
102 of St. John’s households pledged in 2025. If each of us moved up just one “step,” we would more than meet our 2026 ministry goals—and have even more to invest in God’s dreams for our future.

Stories of Impact
Behind every pledge is a story of how God is at work:

I came to Baton Rouge from Long Island, NY in 2020. I started going to the food pantry, which literally saved my life, because I was now living on a fixed income. Then I started attending St. John’s — and all I can say is, I’ve never experienced the love of Christ the way I have here. I consider St. John’s my home church. The love and support people have shown me here has truly changed my life. No matter where I go in this world, I will always come back to St. John’s — my home. Pastor Lane is the best — always with a kind word and a smile that could light up New York City. I love you guys. Peace.
~Goldie M. Files

This is what I believe: if you haven’t felt called to attend church, it’s only because you haven’t yet found the right one! When I found St. John’s after losing my husband, it was like stepping through a door that I didn’t even know existed—or that I so deeply needed. There I was welcomed into a community where faith and love are beautifully intertwined, and through that community, I found not just a church home, but the most wonderful circle of friends. Every one of them—my prayer partners, my fellow volunteers, my any-time-of-day listeners, my Wordle cheerleaders—has come into my life because of St. John’s. The church and its people have changed my life in ways I never could have imagined. I am truly a lucky girl!
~Barbara Benton

We moved to St. John’s after what I considered a significant security breach and concern occurred with Evie in the nursery of another church, which was never acknowledged or acted on. One of the first things I noticed at St. John’s was J.R. sitting at the door of the administrative building—which appeared to be someone watching out for the kids and children during Sunday School and worship. There have been many loving and kind people and Sunday School teachers who have had a positive effect on our children. Grateful for that.
~Scott & Heather Durham
Take the Next Step
This Commitment Sunday, October 26, we’ll celebrate and pray over all the pledge commitments made—and enjoy an extended coffee time during the Sunday School hour to connect, reflect, and give thanks together.
The fastest and easiest way to pledge is online. Printed pledge cards are also available in the church office and narthex.
Let’s dream boldly, give generously, and step into the future God is calling us to—together.