Because we never know when a questionable or burdensome designated gift may come our way, having a gift acceptance policy in place is wise. The United Methodist Church has a wonderful sample. (Photo: Creative Commons)

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Because we never know when a questionable or burdensome designated gift may come our way, having a gift acceptance policy in place is wise. The United Methodist Church has a wonderful sample. (Photo: Creative Commons)
Finance and tax laws can be complicated, and those who handle a congregation’s money need to be aware of the responsibility. Smartchurchmanagement.com lists three errors churches often make. (Photo: Tal Atlas, Creative Commons)
The economy’s rocky journey over the last few years should cause some soul-searching in America’s congregations, says William Enright, senior fellow at the Lake Institute of Faith & Giving. The key is for leaders to be asking the right questions. (Photo: Lemuel Cantos, Creative Commons)
Capital campaigns can be confusing, especially for congregations that have never had one. Vanco Payments has compiled this FAQ to help leaders understand exactly what goes into a capital campaign. (Photo: Stephen Yeargin, Creative Commons)
As the calendar year turns, so does the financial year for most churches, and that means lots of tasks to accomplish. Here, from CapinCruise finance, is a checklist of tasks that can help you close the books on 2022 and start afresh for 2023. (Photo: seniorliving.org)
Church finances may necessitate a pastor or other leader working another job to pay the bills, is it bivocational ministry? Can a calling to ministry be part-time? Lifeway comments. (Photo: MichiganFirstCU, Creative Commons)
How are church gifts received and donors thanked? What gifts are not acceptable? A gift policy can help a congregation answer these questions before they arise. The Center for Faith & Giving explains. (Photo: Asenat29, Creative Commons)
Budgets are tight, donations are in decline. What’s the best strategy for a church to embrace? Well, it’s NOT fundraising, a stewardship drive or a capital campaign, says Karl Vaters of Christianity Today. (Photo: Bev8200, Creative Commons)
Many church members become fuzzy-minded looking at a line-item budget. This year try a ‘narrative budget’ that connects offerings to vital ministries. From Center for Faith & Giving. (Photo: Chris Potter, Creative Commons)
When it comes to discrepancies in church offerings, there’s always the honest mistake, and there’s also the dishonest wolf among the sheep looking for opportunities. Good counting practices can discourage both. Startchurch.com explores. (Photo: Geek Calendar, Creative Commons)