Fundraising is more than just asking for support—it’s about inviting others to participate in a shared mission. In the context as Lutherans, this mission is rooted in stewardship, community, and ethical responsibility.
Whether you’re appealing for help with a new roof, an updated furnace, or assistance with your church’s operating budget, following best practices can ensure your appeal resonates with the hearts and minds of your congregation. Below are five best practices designed to enhance the effectiveness of your church’s fundraising appeals.
Connect the Appeal to Your Church’s Mission
Before you ask for financial support, it’s crucial to remind your congregation of the Church’s broader mission. When people see how their gifts and contributions will directly support your church’s work—whether it’s maintaining a safe worship space or ensuring that ministries continue—they are more likely to give.
Frame your appeal in a way that shows the congregation that this isn’t just about replacing a furnace or patching a roof, but about preserving a space or a program where the community gathers to worship, learn, and serve. By aligning your needs with the mission, you communicate that every donation helps further the church’s impact, which is central to fostering generosity.
Be Transparent and Specific About the Need
Transparency builds trust. When asking for support, be clear and specific about what the funds will be used for. If you need $10,000 for a new roof, say so. If the operating budget shortfall is $15,000, make that known. Transparency in both your financial need and how the funds will be used reassures donors that their contributions are going exactly where they are needed most.
Additionally, breaking down the costs can help people better understand the scope of the need. For example, instead of simply stating the total amount, share what smaller contributions could accomplish—$120 might buy materials for a single section of the roof, or $50 might cover heating costs for a week. This level of transparency not only encourages donations but also fosters a sense of shared responsibility among your congregation. Another way to make philanthropy relatable is to break it down into monthly contributions, for example, $120 is $10 per month, or a ⅓ of a penny per day.
Frame Giving as an Act of Faith and Stewardship
In the Lutheran tradition, giving is an act of faith, reflecting our stewardship of the resources God has entrusted to us. When making an appeal, be sure to frame giving as a spiritual practice. Remind your congregation that their generosity is part of their Christian calling, helping to build a strong community rooted in faith and service.
Stewardship is about more than just financial support—it’s about managing God’s gifts responsibly and with purpose. As you craft your appeal, highlight how their contributions will not only meet a physical need but will also enable your church to continue serving others in Christ’s name. This message can deepen the spiritual connection to giving, moving beyond the practical needs and reinforcing the larger, faith-based implications of personal philanthropy.
Share Stories of Impact
People give when they feel a connection to the cause. One of the most effective ways to make that connection is by sharing stories of impact. How has the church positively influenced the lives of your members or the broader community?
For example, you might tell the story of how the warmth of your building provided comfort to a family in need or how the ministries funded by the church have transformed lives. Personal testimonies from members who have experienced the church’s impact firsthand can be a powerful way to show potential donors that their contributions make a tangible difference.
Link these stories directly to your current needs. If you’re raising funds for building maintenance, emphasize how these spaces have been places of refuge, learning, or worship for years. Stories put a face to the need and demonstrate the real-world outcomes of financial gifts, making the appeal more personal and urgent.
Make It Easy to Give
Lastly, make the giving process as simple and accessible as possible. Whether you’re collecting donations in person, by mail, or online, be sure to offer clear instructions and multiple ways to give. This might include setting up an online donation page, providing pre-addressed envelopes, or offering the opportunity to give a donation of securities for larger appeals.
On your website, ensure the donation link is prominent and easy to find. You might also consider setting up recurring donation options, allowing members to give small amounts regularly, which can be less burdensome and lead to greater overall contributions. The key is to remove any barriers that could prevent someone from making a donation in the moment.
Making a successful fundraising appeal in the Lutheran Church is about more than just dollars and cents—it’s about fostering a spirit of generosity, stewardship, and faith. By connecting the need to the Church’s mission, being transparent, framing giving as a spiritual act, sharing stories of impact, and making the process easy, you can create an appeal that resonates deeply with your congregation.
For further guidance and resources on enhancing your church’s fundraising efforts, visit Charitus Fundraising Support. Together, we can ensure that our churches remain strong and continue to serve as places of faith, worship, and community for generations to come.