I don’t know of any church that is surviving financially without regular offerings. Do you? And yet many churches do nothing to develop multiple, consistent gifts from donors other than the occasional sermon or offering meditation.
There are many things that churches can do to encourage repeat giving. But perhaps the most important is a simple thank-you note to all first-time donors.
First-time donors should receive a hand-written thank-you note along with a receipt within a week following the gift. An explanation could be included that year-end receipts will be sent for tax purposes. The note could be written by the treasurer or financial secretary, one of the elders, or a minister.
These notes help foster a positive relationship with the church, and keep the donor’s heart open to giving!
© 2015 by Jim McLoud. All rights reserved.
