questions and answers

Why has Building God's House been removed from the Riverview Trust?

Our vision for the future of Riverview Church is, and has always been, large. As our Church grows, so does the need to build our 'earthly' buildings to make room for more people. The removal of Building God's House from the Riverview Trust signifies the beginning of a new phase in Riverview's story. As such, we believe it is important that our congregation is aware of our plans and for them to understand our need for generous giving.

Is giving to Building God's House more important than giving to the Riverview Trust?

The short answer is no. Both Building God's House and the Riverview Trust are vital to seeing our mission, to reach the community, met. We believe and have faith that there are a number of people in our congregation who will have a heart for Building God's House, just as there are those who faithfully give to the Trust. We are asking that the Riverview Trust and Building God's House are not seen as an either/or option, but that the generosity of our Church family is great enough to see both flourish.

Who determines how the funds are distributed?

The Senior Minister and Leadership Team develop an annual budget and plan for the Church, the Trust and Building God's House, based on anticipated income and donations. The budget reflects the plans, activities and needs of all departments and initiatives of the Church. Although these plans and budgets are made conservatively, there is a great deal of faith and expectation for God and us to achieve far more than anticipated. As another point of accountability, all annual plans and budgets are approved by the Board of Trustees, the results of which are followed through annually.

Are funds equally distributed between campuses?

No. The funds received into Building God's House are not equally allocated to each of the four campuses, as they do not require equal amounts for refurbishment or building. Each of our campuses has different needs and different seasons of need, which are carefully evaluated by the Senior Minister and Leadership Team and then incorporated within the annual plan and budget.

It is important to note that all funds will remain in the country that they are given in, for the campuses in that country e.g. Orange County Building Fund donations will be allocated to Orange County Campus needs.

Am I able to find out more details about the distribution of funds?

As a 'Church Partner' you will be able to access the Annual Report, including audited financial statements, in the upcoming 'Partner Only' section of the Riverview Church website or contact our Finance Office.

Why do we have the Miracle Offering Weekend?

Having a weekend dedicated to the finalisation of giving commitments to Building God's House gives people participating an opportunity to complete their personal commitment for that financial year. It also enables those who choose to give a lump sum on a once-off basis, the opportunity to do so before the end of the financial year.

Is my giving to Building God's House tax deductible?

Yes. 100% of your giving to "Building God's House" is tax deductible. Tax Receipt will be issued regularly confirming your giving provided your personal details are given.

Why do you need my personal details? I wish to remain anonymous.

You can remain anonymous. This simply means you forego the tax deductibility of your gift.

Are special envelopes available for Building God's House?

Yes. You can use these for cash, cheque and credit card giving, as well as to establish automatic giving from your credit card or bank account, and to request information on B-Pay.

Who should I make my cheques payable to?

Riverview Bible College Building Fund

Will my commitment be kept confidential?

Yes. Our Board of Trustees and Leadership Team will only receive figures based on total amounts committed. Only our Finance Team will have access to actual giving records for the purpose of generating tax receipts.

How frequently should I give towards fulfilling my commitment?

Some people like to give weekly, fortnightly or monthly. Others like to fulfil their giving in one lump sum.

I am interested in leaving money to Building God's House (Riverview Bible College Building Fund) in my Will, is this possible?

Yes. If you want to make the Riverview Bible College Building Fund a beneficiary in your Will, please contact the Finance Department at the church office for more information on the steps you need to take.

I am interested in making Building God's House (Riverview Bible College Building Fund) a beneficiary in my Family Trust, is this possible?

Yes. If you want to make distributions to the Riverview Bible College Building Fund from your Family Trust, please contact the Finance Department at the church office for more information on the steps you need to take.

If you would like assistance or further information about Building God's House, please contact the Finance Team at the Church office.