Six Ways to Think About Church Finances During Difficult Times

The downturn in the economy is a significant cause for concern among church leaders.  As  we prepare our church budgets for the next fiscal year , we do well to take note of the wisdom offered in a white paper published by the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving and The Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University:

1. Remember, those who attend your church are also experiencing tough times.
2. Tell stories about how your parish or congregation is meeting the needs of hurting people.
3. Communicate the mission and services of your church simply, thoughtfully, and candidly.
4. Be sure to thank those who give at every opportunity.
5. Do not use guilt to raise money.
6. This is not a time to be selfish.  This is a time to reach out to the needy in the community.

The full text of the white paper is worth reading:   http://www.philanthropy.iupui.edu/LakeFamilyInstitute/docs/ReligiousGivinginToughTimes.pdf

Our discussion on this website about engagement is made all the more important as we face these tough economic times.  Even as budgets get tighter we have a tremendous opportunity before us to increase the number of engaged parishioners and congregants, for it is in difficult times that people turn to the Church for direction and meaning.  Those who have suffered significant losses in the  stock market can attest to the fact that those who put their trust in material things will eventually be disappointed, while those who trust in the Lord will never be disappointed.

This is clearly a time for us to pay close attention to the dynamics of engagement, and to be attentive to the needs of those in our community to belong to and participate in that which endures, that which is more precious than silver or gold.