An invitation to discover generosity as a practice of faith
Emerging givers may be new to the congregation, give occasionally, or not yet participate financially. The goal of this letter is invitation, not pressure. It introduces giving as part of discipleship, connects financial generosity with the ministry of the congregation, and offers an accessible first step.
Avoid leading with what the congregation needs from the recipient. Instead, invite them to discover what the practice of generosity can mean in their own life of faith.
Sample Letter
Dear [NAME]
Believe it or not, there is more to [church name] than what you see on Sunday morning. [List several ministries and activities, including at least one that happens during the week on your property.] These are just a few of the ways we are living out God’s call in our community.
All of this ministry is made possible by people who share their time, talents, and financial resources. Our gifts become worship and welcome, care and compassion, learning and service. Together, they make possible something larger than any one of us could accomplish alone.
Giving is always a choice. And yet, as followers of Jesus, it is also a response to all that we have first received. We give out of gratitude, out of faith, and out of a desire to participate in the good work God is doing in the world. Generosity is one way we live that response.
If regular giving is new to you, you don’t need to know the “right” amount. Sometimes generosity begins with small but intentional choices. A gift of just $5 a week—$260 over a year—can [name a specific impact in your congregation]. You might choose an amount to give each week or month, or begin with a percentage of your income and allow that percentage to grow over time. What matters most is beginning with intention.
As a congregation, we are entering a season of discernment about our financial commitments for the coming year. Stewardship is a spiritual discipline—one that shapes our faith and deepens our trust in God. Generosity is something we learn by practicing it, and there is real joy in discovering what becomes possible when we share.
I hope you will join us in the remaining weeks of [campaign/theme]. Please make plans to be present on Commitment Sunday, [date], and to attend our [dinner/event, time, and location]. The enclosed chart offers a picture of how others are practicing generosity and may help you find a meaningful place to begin. I invite you to take a step toward giving regularly and intentionally. You may be surprised by the joy it brings!
Thank you for being part of this community and the ministry we share. Wherever you are beginning, you are invited to take the next step with us.
Blessings,
[Signature]
[Name]
[Campaign role/title]
Remember: Make It Yours
The most effective stewardship letter sounds like your congregation, not a template. Before sending, add a story, name a ministry, and give people a glimpse of what their generosity makes possible. Specificity turns a good letter into an invitation people can see themselves in. Sign the letter by hand. Make sure names are correct in the address. The details make a difference! They show genuine care for the person receiving the letter and remind them that faithful stewardship is always about people, not simply dollars.
Looking for another sample?