Funding a church building project is never a matter of money; it is always a matter of obedience to God.

There are several considerations to observe prior to embarking on a capital stewardship campaign.

• Hire a professional company. The services of a good professional capital stewardship team will enable the church to raise more financial support than a single congregation can accomplish on their own.

• Make sure the team you hire shares your passion for ministry.

• In order to insure/maintain ownership of the mission the team must be driven by a well organized volunteer structure.

• Both the team and the program must be centered on Scriptural concepts of Christian stewardship.

• The campaign must be focused on prayer as well as finances.Hi

 

When considering the involvement of a “professional capital stewardship team,” the question, sure to be asked, is, “how much will it cost us?” Based on my experience with a number of campaigns, I can say with confidence, “It will usually cost you more if you do not have a professional guiding you.”

The fee for consulting services is usually based on the size of the project, which may take into account such factors as weekly attendance figures, number of members, the annual budget, the number of households on the mailing list, number of giving units, and other related factors. 

Never utilize the services of any firm that quotes the fee as a percentage of the amount raised. Though it may initially sound like a good way to pay for their services, it is considered unethical behavior for professional firms to quote their fee on that basis. 

The Professional Code of Ethics of the American Association of Fundraising Counsel (AAFRC) reads, 

“A flat, fixed fee is charged based on the level and extent of professional services provided. Fees are not based on the amount of charitable income raised or expected to be raised. Contracts providing for a contingent fee, a commission, or a fee based on percentage of funds raised are prohibited. Such contracts are harmful to the relationship between the donor and the institution and detrimental to the financial health of the client organization.” 

We trust this brief overview of capital stewardship campaigns to be of help as you consider the need for funding the extension of your ministry through building.

Lastly, remember that capital stewardship campaigns are a partnership between your church and the company providing the service. 

As you work together in unity to meet your financial goals, you can expect to see spiritual growth in the congregation as people find added purpose and meaning… a consequence of their financial involvement.

Posted: by Dick White