As we look towards the final months of 2020, I think we can all agree it has been a wild and unpredictable year. We’ve seen our churches navigate uncharted waters from an ongoing pandemic, we’ve witnessed economic downfalls, and we have watched as mental health concerns have raged. We’ve also witnessed churches become extremely creative; forming new online ministries that reach thousands across the globe for Christ, and in a very short time they have increased the Kingdom despite the restrictions placed on services.

Where does your church stand this last quarter of 2020? Will your year-end giving help fund ministries in 2021? Over the past few months, we’ve been closely tracking church giving retention.

Here are a few things we’ve observed – 

 1. Giving Household Retention is Down: Overall church funding has plateaued and top givers (those that give $10,000+ a year) are carrying most of the financial load. 

2.  Giving Households are Lagging: Although a large majority of givers are still giving, their support is lagging (giving between 50% – 100% of what they usually give).

3.  Giving Households are Coming Up Short: About 1/3 of giving households are giving less than 50% of what they gave the year before.

If you’re using MortarStone, you can identify these giving households by looking at your Retained Household Breakdown. (see chart below) 

Here are a few practical steps to disciple these households and increase generosity for ministry funding in 2021. 

Giving Households reporting ‘strong’ giving:  

1. Thank these households for giving generously.
2. Be transparent with them about how giving is supporting the church community. 
3. Identify which givers are considered Top Givers, aged 50+ years old. Offer these givers the opportunity to give non-cash gifts that provide sustainable long-term funding for ministry. If you need help building your gift planning ministry – click here to schedule a time to learn how this ministry can help your church. 

 Giving Households that are Lagging & Falling Short

1. Thank these households for giving.
2. Be transparent about how giving supports the church and community. 
3. Offer targeted financial classes on budgeting and generous giving.
4. Let them know you’re here to support them and offer information for prayer and assistance. 

Fully-funding year-end budgets is possible – prayer, direct communication, and developing giver relationships will help you receive the gifts your church needs to further the gospel message.

We’d love to help with your year-end funding strategies – schedule a time to talk with us!