What should we do with what is left when our visible ministry closes? It is a question that is asked with some regularity. Here is my usual response: The Center for Faith and Giving suggests to any congregation ceasing its visible ministry that they consider designating the entire amount of their final assets to be […]
Read moreThe Importance of a Gifts Policy Churches and charities have one major thing in common: they are dependent on the generosity of others (expressed through gifts to the organization) to have the financial resources they need to perform their mission. For this reason, congregations need a policy about gifts that specifies how gifts may be […]
Read moreGifts Policy and the Gifts Commission (A Proposed Model) Purpose: This Gifts Policy is established to protect and serve the long-term interests of the congregation, so that it may faithfully and properly manage and steward the assets and resources donated to further its mission. These may be testamentary gifts; money designated for certain special projects or […]
Read moreCharity and New Tax Law A Commentary by Bruce A. Barkhauer Minister for Faith and Giving for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Is the tax deduction for charitable giving going to go away? To be honest we don’t know yet, and the idea of it going completely away seems unlikely based on what […]
Read morePreventing Fraud in Your Church Creating an environment of trust is one of several crucial aspects of developing a culture where generosity can flourish. The people who give to your ministry must believe that their intentions will be honored and that their gifts will not be wasted or mismanaged. One important step to achieve this […]
Read moreThe Challenge: Ministries are often faced with receipting questions when gifts do not come directly from a donor in the traditional cash/check form. Gifts from donor-funded endowments, donor-advised funds, IRA gifts, and non-cash gifts are just a few of challenges faced by those charged with acknowledging contributions. Listed below are some of the more common […]
Read moreDoes one size really fit all? It has been my experience that one size may be worn by all – but it will certainly look different depending on the size of the person wearing it! One size, in reality, doesn’t fit most, let alone all. The same is definitely true with letter writing and the […]
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