wfn.org | WCC release: WCC finances, p.2 & end

[smm@wcc-coe.org]

Even though returns on investments have improved in comparison to
1994, the net income from these sources has been negative due to
currency exchange losses carried over from 1994.  The situation
was exacerbated by a decrease in membership contributions (mainly
because of lower exchange rates) to just CHF 6.27m. (cf.1994: CHF
6.37m).  The result was a UDI deficit of CHF 4.4m.

In his letter, Dr Raiser says the amount of UDI is "out of all
proportion" to a total 'turnover' of over CHF 100m and the figure
must increase to at least CHF 10m.

Pointing out that membership dues have remained static for many
years, Raiser adds he is "sad" there are still "a large number of
churches" which continue to pay nothing despite last year's
Central Committee decision to set a minimum contribution of CHF
1,000 for each church.  (In 1995, 156 churches made membership
contributions compared to 153 in the previous year).

In his letter, the general secretary makes a "direct and urgent
plea" for churches to consider this matter and "respond swiftly". 
He tells member churches the WCC is not just 'another
organisation' seeking more money: "It is your Council, responding
to the mandate provided by you, its member churches and
supporting partners."  Raiser calls on the churches to provide
the resources for the task they have themselves set.

Copies of the 1995 Financial Report and Konrad Raiser's letter
are available upon request to the Press and Information Office.