The Gospel teaches to not put trust in financial resources, but in “the true wealth” that is a relationship with Jesus Christ, Pope Francis said. “We are indeed – as St. Paul would say – ‘poor, but capable of enriching many; as people who have nothing and instead possess everything.’” (Photo: Semilla Luz, Creative Commons)
Donors want to know, “What’s your church all about? Who are you, and how are you furthering God’s mission?” Answers go to the core of your church’s story, but many of us do a poor job of telling that story. Attention to branding is one way to help tell you church build an identity and […]
After expenses for personnel, building costs often present the biggest challenges to church finances, especially when the building is old, or when it’s time to expand with an addition. This article from Partners for Sacred Spaces offers fundraising tips and links to other resources. (Photo: Luke Peterson, Creative Commons)
With millions of people across the country unemployed or furloughed, coronavirus has curtailed the cash flow of many families who still have bills to pay. Here, from Fortune magazine, are some coping strategies.
“We are all invited to live in this new realm that Jesus talked about, the Kingdom of God, which includes every aspect of our lives, including our money—perhaps especially our money,” says Mike Little, director of the Faith and Money Network. He explains in this magazine interview. (Photo: Oregon State University, Creative Commons)
“One of the most frequently asked questions I am getting is, How do I get my church ready to minister to people who suffer the painful economic consequences of this worldwide crisis?” says Todd McMichen, author and Director of Generosity & Digital Giving at LifeWay. Check out his article with nine steps to prepare your […]
Members of faith communities are already feeling the financial pinch from the disruptions caused by responses to COVID-19. Providing access to resources that outline where and how to get help and offering safe digital space to talk can help lessen anxiety and fears. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is a great place to start. (Photo: […]
This spring, while you’re cleaning the winter cobwebs and clutter from your home, why not give the same treatment to your bank account and wallet? A “spending cleanse’ can help you recognize and put a halt to bad spending habits. From ShareSaveSpend.com. (Photo: TaxRebate.org.uk, Creative Commons)
Does your congregation have a gift acceptance policy? If not, check out this article from the National Council of Nonprofits and get a leadership team together to craft one. Clear communication and good gift boundaries make generosity more effective for your ministry and rewarding for donors. (Photo: Asenat29, Creative Commons)
Do your congregants know that their tithes and offerings are handled responsibly? If trust slips, so do donations. Smart churches help assure their donors by conducting a financial audit once every year. Think of it as a “check up” to make sure the congregation is financially healthy. This ELCA guide can help. (Photo: 401(K) 2012, […]
