Why take the survey? Simply put, for the benefit of your church and churches similar to yours.
When participants complete the survey, the customized reports allow administrators, personnel/finance committees and minister search teams to better determine adequate compensation for ministers and staff. Accordingly, a higher number of survey participants lead to a more accurate baseline of compensation. That can be essential information for thousands of churches, including your own — which makes the survey worth the five to eight minutes it takes to complete.
Take the Survey
For more information, review the frequently asked questions.
What information about my church is needed before I start?
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The following Church Information is needed for the 2012 survey:
- — Average weekly primary attendance (Bible Study or Worship Attendance)
- — Resident membership
- — Annual church budget
- — Total compensation for all personnel
What information is needed from ministers/employees?
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Ministers and staff will need the following information on hand:
- — Annual salary
- — Annual retirement plan contributions by the church
- — Annual insurance premiums paid by the church
- — Level of education completed
- — Vacation and paid time off allowed for revivals or similar events
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Compensation information from minsters only
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Only ministers will need to provide the following:
- — Amount of housing or parsonage allowance
- — Rental value and utilities of church-provided parsonage
- — Amount of Social Security assistance if provided by the church
Is the information I enter confidential?
- All survey data will be kept in the strictest of confidence. Results are reported only in aggregate by state convention or at the national level.
Do I need to turn off the Pop-up Blocker on my computer?
- Yes, be sure that all Pop-up Blockers are turned off and that “cookies” are accepted.
What should I do if I have questions or have problems with the survey?
- Contact GuideStone Financial Resources with any questions or issues. You may call toll free 1-888-98-GUIDE (1-888-984-8433) Monday–Friday between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. CST to speak with a customer relations specialist, or send an email to info@guidestone.org.
How long will the survey take?
- Approximately five to eight minutes per employee.
When will survey results be available?
- The survey will be open through May 2012. Results will be available in the summer of 2012.