Practical Church PC 062: 6 Church money mistakes to avoid
Oct 8, 2025
Discover six crucial financial pitfalls that churches often fall into. Learn why budgeting for mission is essential to prioritize church desires. Understand the risks of depending solely on a few big donors and the importance of diversifying income. Get insights on avoiding costly rent and finding the right space. Dive into why transparency in financial matters builds trust and boosts giving. Lastly, hear why discussing money should be normalized in churches, empowering pastors to talk confidently about generosity.
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Budget For Mission Priorities
- Put mission priorities and desires explicitly into your annual budget so they actually happen.
- Growing an existing line item is easier than creating a new one later, so plan ahead for investments like childcare or church planting.
Don't Rely On One Or Two Givers
- Avoid relying on one or two large givers as your financial lifeline and live as if they could leave anytime.
- Aim to be able to meet budget even if your top giver(s) stop supporting you.
Costly Space Decision During COVID
- New City's move before COVID doubled rent and created five years of financial strain due to leases and restrictions.
- The church eventually opted out and became cash-flow positive after downsizing to a more sustainable space.
