A recent LifeWay Research survey found that 3 out of 10 churches face budget shortfalls in 2015.  It is an interested read that I would recommend you read here  survey

The question I wanted to ask is, what are they doing about it?  I have been reading surveys and studies like this for years.  They all point out to us the same thing, giving is declining.  The degree or percentage of decline might be debated from one survey to the next but all point to one conclusion, churches are seeing less not more money in the offering plates.

Why is this?  The LifeWay article talked about the economy as one reason pastors say their giving is in decline.  They rightly though point out that this is but one reason why.  Here are some other reasons for the decline in giving.

1.  The increased secularization of our country is a major factor in the decline.  We now have a whole segment of society now known as the “Nones.”  This is because on questions when asked about their religion they mark, none.  This leads to the next reason giving is declining,

2.  Church attendance is declining.  It stands to reason when there are fewer people in the pews or chairs there will be less in the plate.  Despite a few mega churches growth, overall attendance on Sunday continues to fall.

3.  The demographic shift in America has changed the church landscape.  Gone or nearly gone are the Builder generation that gave proportionately more than any other generation.  Baby Boomers, currently the largest donating segment in America is moving into retirement.  Add to this an influx of immigrants many of whom are not Evangelical or church goers and the downward spiral of giving continues on.

4.  The Technological Revolution is leaving most churches behind.  America is fast becoming a checkless and cashless society.  Yet Sunday after Sunday we pass a plate or bucket by people who have little to no means to contribute to the plate.  Until and unless churches move towards online giving options we will continue to see a decline in giving.

There is one more reason many churches are struggling to make budget.  Most have no plan to work towards increasing giving.  This relates back to my question about those that said in the survey they were seeing a budget shortfall.  What are they doing about it?  I know from over 18 years of experience that most are doing NOTHING!  Here is one of my mantras,

If churches keep doing what they have always done they will not get what they have always got!

So, what are you doing to make sure you are fully funded this year?  Here is a suggestion.  Get a plan and work your plan.  If you don’t have a plan try mine for 14 days for $1!  If it doesn’t work I will give you your dollar back.

https://thestewardshipcoach.org/2015/06/15/giving-365-introductory-special-14-days-for-1-00/

Now is the time to reverse the decline in giving one church at a time starting with your church!

Mark Brooks – The Stewardship Coach