Even though they say they don’t like to talk about money, people desperately know that it takes a too prominent place in their lives. They want to know what to do about that.

Asking for help gives someone the chance to be helpful. In my experience people nearly always want to be helpful. Thank people directly for their pledge, help them be seen and feel recognized and important for giving.

Tired of thinking about ways to balance your budget? Is there a fabulous new ministry that you’d like to fund? Looking for new revenue streams?
 
Maybe it’s time to write a grant.

Of all the Sundays of the year, Rally Sunday is the one where a positive, exuberant atmosphere is appropriate. It’s Kick-Off Sunday! Exciting things await you and your congregation.

And our lives, for the most part, should be expressions of joy. Joy must be at the core of why we give because all the gifts we have – time, talents, and treasure are to be returned to the One who has given us life.

Post-Olympics Blues will soon fade away but the glow of a well-written official or hand-written TY note will last for a good long while. Just keep remembering, thank you letters make a difference.

However, we are also creatures of habit…especially in the mainline church. We do love our fall pledge campaigns. Or maybe you’re looking to doing a January campaign. Like National Public Radio, you can count on them like clockwork.

So, what’s your plan?

There are three ways you can go – and all can be successful.

There are still too many congregations (and I hope you know who you are) who are not giving people the opportunity to give electronically. It’s not too late. Electronic giving is not going away.

Friends, it’s been a crazy (and I mean a crazy) few weeks. No doubt, books will be written about this short window in our history.
But will it mean anything as you look at your giving and stewardship focus?

Who can you surprise this week with a simple “thank you”? Think about someone who would least expect it and then do it. Guaranteed, you’ll feel good and so will the person you thank. Unleash the power of serotonin!