In late February I attended the annual conference for ALDE, the Association of Lutheran Development Executives. As always, the educational sessions were compelling and the fellowship with peers across the country fantastic (and they have a new brand... see below!)One session that stuck with me was Fundraising for Church and Schools by Mike Ward. As a national fundraising consultant and former Lutheran pastor, he had some interesting insights on Advancement from a pastoral perspective.As often it does, my mind then turned to finding additional Biblical references of various Advancement and Fundraising techniques in God's Word.Here are some of my favorites, loosely listed as my Top 9:
Exodus 35: Gifts of Time, Talent, and Treasure! 2 Corinthians 9:7: There's that "Cheerful Giver" I always talk about. 1 Chronicles 29 & Psalms 132: Capital Campaign best practices! 2 Corinthians 8 & 9 Paul: one of the first Stewardship advocates. 2 Kings 20:1 & Isaiah 38:1: Better start planning your will... Matthew 6:21: Treasure = Heart Phil 4: 10-19: Support your missionaries, field workers, and teachers, for goodness sake! Romans 12:8: How to choose the best board members. (Personal favorite): Luke 7: 1-6 Perhaps the first special favor requested for a major donor!This is by no means an exhaustive list, but always good to review Best Practices from the Best.
