4 Ways Church Staff Can Encourage Generosity

I was in a meeting recently with local church administrative assistants that was so far out of my league I decided to write a blog to help them. Those at the table with me probably thought I was taking incredibly detailed notes about the local sales and use taxes, but I was actually thinking of ways administrative assistants and other church staff members can encourage generosity in their church.

I’ve met with enough pastors to know that many don’t get it when it comes to generosity. At the same time the staff of the church is intimidated or outright scared to confront the pastor on shortcomings when it comes to teaching the subject in the local church. So here are my suggestions of how staff and specifically an administrative assistant or financial secretary can spur generosity.

1. Begin quarterly giving statements to givers with a letter showing the church’s impact. While some give the same amount on a regular basis, others (like me) aren’t paid the same each month and therefore give a different way. Luckily I can go on my church’s website and see how much I’ve given, but most don’t have that luxury. Don’t simply send a statement, send a letter detailing how lives have been affected in the church during the quarter. Pictures from a food pantry, mission trip, VBS, or special conference can make these much more impactful. Then make the connection; because you gave, lives were changed.

2. Make every giving option available. Yes many will continue to give during the offering time on Sunday morning which is great, but what about those who are out of town, sick, or simply don’t have cash or checks? By offering electronic giving whether it’s on the website, app, or by text will ensure everyone has an easy way to give.

3. Share significant giving information with the pastor. Each church operates differently when it comes to what the pastor knows about giving. However every pastor should know where the church stands financially. The pastor should also know if someone gave a significant gift out of the norm (even if the amount isn’t included) or if a faithful giver has stopped giving. Again, simply asking the pastor if he has spoken with Mr. and Mrs. Smith would be enough information for the pastor.

4. Ask the pastor to write a note to those who give for the first time. A letter to someone who has made a significant step in their faith can encourage them to continue that process with the church. Amounts don’t have to be shared, but expressing gratitude encourages other steps of involvement. While you’re at it, if feasible, the pastor can thank those who have volunteered for the first time, joined a small group for the first time, or any number significant faith steps.

So, there are four ways that an administrative assistant, financial secretary, or other staff can have an impact on the generosity of a church. While a pastor often sets the tone, those of us in the church can also participate in the culture of generosity!