First responses: calm and act quickly

When a major donor or key financial supporter leaves a church, it can feel personal, unsettling, and even threatening to the ministry’s stability. But pastoral leadership during this moment matters immensely. On this episode, Josh and Sam walk through the practical steps pastors should take when the church’s largest giver steps away.

There is a 15% to 30% annual “churn rate” in just about every church. At some point, the biggest giver will be the one who exits.

1. 1. Don’t panic. But work quickly.
   2. Understand the reason why the key giver is leaving.
   3. Should you work to retain the key giver or not?
   4. Don’t take anything personally. Focus on fixing any potential problems.
   5. Understand the impact on your cash flow.
   6. What is the pattern of their giving: weekly, annually, or monthly?
   7. Do you need to make mid-year budget changes?
   8. Use your polity to your advantage.
   9. Communicate clearly with your church and allow others to fill the gaps.
   10. Trust God’s provision above anything else.

Resources:

• Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• Chaney & Associates

• Church Answers University

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

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