I know, I know – not the most exciting topic when you’re fired up about reaching people for Jesus. But here’s the reality: understanding your finances is just as crucial as understanding your calling.
Space & Place
Whether it’s a school gym, movie theater, or community center, you’ll need somewhere to meet. Pro tip: Don’t just budget for Sunday – factor in setup time, storage, and those times you need the space for special events.
Equipment Essentials
Your worship team needs more than just good intentions (though that helps). Sound systems, instruments, kids’ ministry supplies – it adds up. Start with the essentials and grow from there. Remember, you don’t need to compete with Elevation on day one.
People Power
Here’s where it gets real. Whether you’re paying yourself, other staff, or contractors, labor will likely be your biggest expense. Be smart with your hiring strategy – we’ve found that stacking your team with multiple part-timers often gives you the most bang for your buck. Plus, sometimes, a passionate volunteer beats a paid position with the wrong fit. Think quality over quantity and flexibility over full-time when you’re starting out.
Marketing That Actually Works
Let’s be honest – Jesus didn’t need Facebook ads, but we’re not Jesus. Your community needs to know you exist. But here’s the game-changer: in 2024, your best marketing might be free. Build genuine relationships. Get involved in your community. Create shareable social content. When you do spend money on marketing, make it count.
Smart Money Moves
The Foundation
- Build a 6-month emergency fund before launching. Trust me, your faith will thank you for your wisdom.
- Keep detailed records from day one. Future-you will high-five present-you for this.
Giving Strategy
- Create multiple giving channels: digital, text-to-give, and good old-fashioned offering plates. Make it easy for people to be generous.
- Partner up. Share resources with other local churches. That storage unit doesn’t need to be just yours.
The Secret Sauce: Transparency
Here’s what I’ve learned: people give to vision, but they give more to vision they trust. Be ridiculously transparent about church finances. Show your people where every dollar goes. Celebrate the wins, own the struggles, and watch what God does through your faithfulness.
Wrapping It Up
Remember, good stewardship isn’t about having the most money – it’s about managing well what God’s given you. Start small, stay faithful, and keep your eyes on Jesus. He’s pretty good at multiplication, after all.
Ready to dive deeper? DOVE International has your back. Contact our church planting team and let’s build something sustainable together.
Keep pressing on,
Jeff
P.S. Seriously though, budget for that coffee. Church planting’s a marathon, not a sprint, and sometimes Holy Spirit moments happen best over a good cup of joe.