Financial crisis

Church income isn’t keeping pace with inflation — but here’s how faith leaders can encourage giving and growth

As a recent report sheds light on the postpandemic state of faith and finances, experts offer suggestions for increasing church income by prioritizing ease of giving and financial literacy.

By Leslie Quander Wooldridge Journalist

Image link to article: Church income isn’t keeping pace with inflation — but here’s how faith leaders can encourage giving and growth

Having my student debt forgiven helps me believe there is another way

Instead of defaulting to individual responsibility, shouldn’t we forgive one another’s debts?

By Melissa Florer-Bixler Pastor, Raleigh Mennonite Church

Image link to article: Having my student debt forgiven helps me believe there is another way

Laura Ullrich and David Brown: Why pastors should understand economics

Economists live in a world of scarcity. Christians believe in God’s abundance. In this conversation, an economist and a pastor talk about the ways in which that tension plays out in ministry and life.

‘Crisis and Care: Meditations on Faith and Philanthropy’

In this excerpt from an edited volume, Aimée Laramore describes the difficulties of the diverse economic problems facing congregations — and the opportunities that adapting to them could provide.

By Aimée Laramore Philanthropic strategist

Image link to article: ‘Crisis and Care: Meditations on Faith and Philanthropy’

Melissa Florer-Bixler: What does it mean to forgive our debtors?

Debt is a crushing issue for many in our congregations, but creative churches are offering a path to freedom, a pastor writes.

By Melissa Florer-Bixler Pastor, Raleigh Mennonite Church

Image link to article: Melissa Florer-Bixler: What does it mean to forgive our debtors?

Melissa Spas: How do you fundraise and ask for major gifts? Don't pitch. Nurture relationships first.

Fundraising is about forming relationships, sharing the mission of your organization, and inviting others to participate, writes the managing director for the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving.

By Melissa Spas Vice president of religion, Chautauqua Institution

Image link to article: Melissa Spas: How do you fundraise and ask for major gifts? Don't pitch. Nurture relationships first.

Will the church financially survive the COVID-19 pandemic?

Twelve Christian leaders share their thoughts on how the coronavirus pandemic might affect the financial health and sustainability of American churches.

By Ken Garfield Journalist

Image link to article: Will the church financially survive the COVID-19 pandemic?

Questions to guide organizational change during tough economic times

Sometimes institutional leaders are focused on survival. These questions can help shift thinking toward thriving, even in a climate of scarcity.

By Gretchen E. Ziegenhals Spiritual director and retreat leader

Image link to article: Questions to guide organizational change during tough economic times

Quiz: How to fill the collection plate

By David Briggs Journalist

Nurturing cheerful givers is more challenging than ever during an economic downturn. New research provides important insights that could boost the financial and spiritual health of congregations. Take our quiz to test your knowledge of church giving trends.

William G. Enright: Money is like a vital sign

Three and a half years after the beginning of the Great Recession, data are beginning to show the toll it has taken on congregations, says the executive director of the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving.

Quiz: Investing for sustainability