Key Characteristics of Financially Healthy Congregations

• Balance between stewardship techniques and fundraising strategies.
• Recognition that money is a symbol of our value system.
• Openness to discuss money within the life of the congregation.
• Affirmation of our status as "gifted" people.
• Regular two-way communication between the leadership and the membership regarding financial information.
• Systematic challenges to grow in giving appropriate for each member.
• Regular opportunities for additional giving.
• Both operating and capital funding invite gifts from donor income and capital.
• Planned giving is encouraged and a support system is in place.
• People appreciate giving opportunities as opportunities rather than burdens.
• Both clergy and lay leadership know their responsibilities and enthusiastically participate in financial leadership.

From Get Well! Stay Well! Prescriptions for a Financially Healthy Congregation (p. 8) by Wayne C. Barrett. Discipleship Resources © 1997. Used by permission. This resource is nowout of print, but is available from Amazon.com.