FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS,
Pathway Church in Redlands, California has shared a meaningful and mission-driven partnership with The Baptist Foundation of California (BFCAL). Built on a foundation of trust and a shared commitment to Kingdom impact, this relationship has grown alongside the church—providing vital support through construction financing, outreach grants, investment management, estate planning seminars, and missionary housing. Together, they demonstrate the power of aligned vision and faithful stewardship in furthering the gospel.

A FOUNDATION FOR GROWTH
In the early 2000s, as Pathway Church expanded, BFCAL provided construction financing that helped bring to life the church’s current office space and several classroom buildings. This development enabled the launch of what is now affectionately called the “Kid Quad,” which serves over 125 children each Sunday from preschool through fifth grade.

BFCAL didn’t just fund buildings—they helped lay the foundation for sustainable ministry growth. Over the last 11 years alone, Pathway has received more than a dozen BFCAL SoCal Baptist Ministry grants totaling over $50,000, specifically fueling evangelism and outreach programs.

A HEART FOR MISSIONS
Pathway Church has long prioritized missions, particularly supporting International Mission Board (IMB) missionaries. When the church committed to providing temporary housing for missionaries on furlough, BFCAL stepped in again.

Through two mission house grants totaling $51,000, Pathway was able to grow from a single apartment to three units—including a house—that now service missionary families year-round.

This kind of support exemplifies the strategic partnership that Pathway has come to count on. As Michael Poma, Church Administrator at Pathway Church of Redlands, CA put it:
“BFCAL has grown with us as we have grown. From construction to grants to mission activities, BFCAL has partnered with Pathway to make an impact in people’s lives.”

RESOURCING THE MISSION
Generous giving from Pathway members has also allowed the church to grow an investment account managed by BFCAL. The interest earned has become a key source of ongoing support for mission efforts, enabling continued outreach without drawing from operational budgets.

In addition, BFCAL has facilitated over $125,000 in stock transfers to the church—providing members with an accessible, tax-conscious way to support Kingdom work.

Both church staff and congregants appreciate the simplicity and reliability of working with BFCAL.
“When two entities are working toward a common goal,” Poma shared, “it makes doing business together a much more enjoyable experience.”

LOCAL OUTREACH WITH LASTING IMPACT
Beyond global missions, BFCAL’s support has helped Pathway Church reach its local community in meaningful ways. From “Mega Sports” to “WinShape,” grants have enabled Pathway to provide scholarships for children who might not otherwise be able to attend.

Initiatives like “Love Redlands”—a cooperative day of service with 10 other local churches—show how outreach can be both practical and transformational. Projects have included supporting shelters, serving elementary schools, and caring for the homeless.

A NEW CHAPTER WITH WATERSEDGE
When Pathway’s longtime bookkeeper relocated after 17 years of service, the church took the opportunity to reevaluate its accounting process. At BFCAL’s recommendation, they connected with WatersEdge and quickly recognized the value in outsourcing their financial operations to a team with deep experience in church accounting.

“WatersEdge does the heavy lifting,” Poma explained. “We upload our weekly financials, and they turn that into reports we can actually use. The software is very church-oriented, and their team understands our world.”

In the months since the transition, Pathway has experienced increased efficiency and improved financial clarity. Accountant-level oversight and expert support have allowed staff to redirect their focus toward ministry instead of administration.

ALL IN ALL
Through decades of faithful partnership, Pathway Church, BFCAL, and WatersEdge have shown what’s possible when churches and Kingdom-minded organizations work together. By meeting both practical and spiritual needs, they are building more than buildings—they are building lives, transforming communities, and advancing the gospel for generations to come.

WatersEdge is a key partner of The Baptist Foundation of California. WatersEdge can provide this type of financial reporting for your church or ministry.
For more information on ministry accounting services contact Ernest Ong at .