Your heart is bursting with dreams that will facilitate immense growth in your church body and bring forth eternal fruit for the Kingdom. You know the season is quickly approaching in which the vision you have written will be realized. It’s time to build, so you meet with architects and church builders. The plans are made, and now it’s time to focus on the finances required to realize the vision.
How do we raise money for our church building projects? The following are some proven paths pastors have taken to not only successfully raise the necessary funds, but also create a unified church culture throughout the building process. The people felt more connected to the church body because of their part in the project and the building was successfully completed.
1. Wait on the vision
Building projects require faith, and faith begins where the will of God is known. Before anything, as you know, begin by waiting on the Lord. Once you have received the clear vision from Him, write it down so you can run with it. This is a critical step because the vision will anchor you when obstacles attempt to prevent its fulfillment. “I will stand my watch and set myself on the rampart, and watch to see what He will say to me…‘Write the vision and make it plain on tablets that he may run who reads it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time…’” (Habakkuk 2:1-3).
2. Cast the vision
Once the vision is written, and you sense the appropriate time to share it with your congregation is approaching, begin by creating a clear, concise message and presentation that is easy for every member to understand. People tend to give to the purpose of the building rather than the brick and mortar itself, so outline the specific purpose for your project. As Stephen Covey says, “Begin with the end in mind.”
When casting vision answer the who, what, where, and when of the project. Clearly, state the end result of the finished building project. Perhaps it will accommodate twice the number of children than your current nursery, or house a variety of outreach events and draw another facet of your community to the Lord. It may multiply the church’s seating capacity, or provide a place for church members to fellowship. Define how the building will facilitate your church’s opportunity to be fruitful for God’s kingdom.
A Pastor’s Guide to Church Construction Planning
Check out our comprehensive guide to learn everything you need to know about the pre-construction management for your church building project.
3. Lead by example and inspire others to give
When building Solomon’s temple (as seen in 1 Chronicles 29:1-9), David gave first, and then the leaders gave. When the people saw the generosity of the leaders, they gave with joy. Consider being the first to give to your building program, and perhaps teach on giving. Faith comes by hearing and hearing God’s Word (Romans 10:17), and more specifically, faith for giving comes from hearing the Word of God on giving.
“And [God] Who provides seed for the sower and bread for eating will also provide and multiply your [resources for] sowing and increase the fruits of your righteousness which manifests itself in active goodness, kindness, and charity. Thus you will be enriched in all things and in every way so that you can be generous, and [your generosity as it is] administered by us will bring forth thanksgiving to God” (2 Corinthians 9:9-11 AMP).
4. Give regular updates on the project
Keep the vision in front of the congregation regularly by sharing pictures or video updates of the building project. Also, consider constructing a visual thermometer that fills up incrementally each week as the money comes in for the project, which not only helps the church see the progress but also fuels their enthusiasm. When people see results, they stay motivated to be involved. And momentum increases.
5. Build unity with sponsored events
Participation yields ownership. Creative fund-raising projects generate enthusiasm in the church community and help members connect with the building project and its purpose. Although sponsored events may bring in modest amounts of money, they give your congregation the opportunity to be part of the building program not only monetarily, but personally.
Draw on your creativity and the talents of those in your congregation. Consider a church-wide garage sale or car wash; sponsor a community running or walking event. Or host a night of homegrown entertainment at your facility, and have all the proceeds go to the church building project. Seize the opportunity to work together as a congregation toward a common goal and enjoy the journey.
Churches By Daniels is here to help you not only raise the money for your building but create a partnership between those being ministered to and the ministry that serves them. Contact us today to achieve the level of fundraising that will provide you the cornerstone of the entire financing package for your church building project.
A Church Construction Guide for Pastors
Our comprehensive church construction guide will show you how to navigate the challenges of your church’s construction project.
