As the year draws to a close, we invite you to reflect on the blessings we share at St. John the Divine and how your generosity helps us shine as A Light for the City. Your year-end giving strengthens the ministries that carry Christ’s love into our community and the year ahead.
When is the deadline for making a 2025 year-end gift?
To be credited as a 2025 gift, contributions must be received or postmarked by December 31, 2025. Online gifts must be completed by 11:59 pm that evening.
Do I need to complete my 2025 pledge by the end of the year?
Yes, if you have an outstanding balance on your 2025 pledge, we encourage you to complete it before year-end. Your faithful giving allows SJD to finish the year strong.
Why is making a 2026 pledge important?
Pledges help SJD plan ministries, staff, and programs with greater confidence. They allow us to budget responsibly and steward resources faithfully. If you have not made your 2026 pledge, you may do so here.
What tax changes are coming in 2026 that may affect my giving?
Three main changes take effect on January 1, 2026:
Because of these changes, some parishioners may choose to make gifts before December 31, 2025.
If I want to take advantage of 2025 tax rules, do I need to pay my entire 2026 pledge this year?
No. Your pledge is simply a commitment and not a tax event. Only gifts you make (payments) matter for tax purposes. Paying part or all of your 2026 gift in 2025 is completely optional.
How do I make an online year-end gift?
You can make your gift via Realm. Gifts made by 11:59 pm on December 31, 2025 will be recorded for the 2025 tax year.
What if I want to hand-deliver a check?
Checks must be delivered to an SJD representative before year-end.
Please note: The church office will be closed on December 31, 2025, so plan to deliver checks earlier in the week.
What is the deadline for ACH or wire transfers?
ACH and wire transfers must be received in SJD’s bank account by December 31, 2025. Please allow extra time for bank processing, especially during the holiday week.
What is the deadline for a stock transfer?
Stock gifts must be received into SJD’s brokerage account by December 31, 2025. The sale date does not affect the gift year.
How are DAF grants and QCDs handled?
DAF grants follow timing rules similar to checks and electronic transfers. QCDs are dated by your IRA custodian, not SJD. Because processing times vary, please initiate these gifts early.
How do I know if my gift was received?
You will receive a confirmation email for online gifts and a year-end giving statement from SJD in January. If you have questions, you may email Tara Converse, tconverse@sjd.org.
When is the church office closed for the holidays?
The office will be closed:
Who should I contact with questions about giving or transfers?
Please email Tara Converse, tconverse@sjd.org or call 713.354.2257.
Thank you for helping St. John the Divine shine A Light for the City. Your generosity makes a real difference in the lives we touch and the ministry we share. May God bless you and those you love in this holy season.