The Lutheran Campus Ministry at WVU has no single funding source.

70% of our operating budget comes from mission support dollars contributed by the members of the ELCA at the congregational level.  Whether we receive this support through the ELCA churchwide expression or through our three constituent synods, its still the same source, the members of the denomination.  If you are a contributing member of the ELCA (and your congregation remits mission support to the synod), you are already a partner in this campus ministry.  Unfortunately, this funding can be adversely affected by the political vicissitudes of the denomination.

The remaining portion of our income comes from the offering plate, a small endowment, and direct gifts from individuals and congregations.  The individual gifts come from alumni, parents, faculty/staff, and friends of the campus ministry.  These direct gifts need to become a more significant portion of our income so that we might not only weather the days ahead but also advance the ministry.

Expenses are divided into four areas: personnel, facility, program, and operations.  The personnel area accounts for 80% of total expenses under normal circumstances.  This covers total compensation (i.e., salary, FICA, pension, housing, health insurance, etc.) for all regular and irregular staff.

At present, we have two major capital projects which are not part of our regular budget.  The larger of the two is the Old Parsonage / Luther House Renovation.  This project will cost approximately $80,000.  This project will help us create a quality residential environment for up to seven students living in an intentional Lutheran community.  The second project is the replacement of the chapel roof.  At a minimum cost of $40,000, the shingles are being replaced with 50 year shingles.  In addition, repair of damaged areas of the roof and leakage mitigation are included.

Operating with a total budget less than $100,000, requires constant vigilance in expense control.  It also compels us to work harder at revenue generation.  Even small changes in revenues or expenses are keenly felt.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.