Back in the “good old days” before Covid, waiting to make a big financial decision didn’t cost you all that much. When inflation was nearly nonexistent and interest rates were 3–4%, you could take your time when making a major capital investment decision. Not so anymore! That was then, this is now… Today, the norm is persistent substantial inflation in construction [...]

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There is a truism we’ve experienced in six decades of helping churches fund major projects. It’s simply this: “Your project will take longer and cost more than you originally planned.” The maxim applies to projects of all types. Right now, some churches are experiencing a resurgence of in-person growth and require additional space. Others have a need to simply repurpose [...]

There are many myths associated with church capital campaigns. Here at CGS, we decided it was time to investigate the myths and find reality. To do so, we commissioned an independent agency (Arbor Research) to conduct a rigorous research project. Their study encompassed 52 pastors representing 17 different denominations. The findings from the study were surprising and many myths got [...]

At Church Answers, you will find helpful resources, experts, and community to guide you through the ups and downs of ministry and church health. Our library of free materials and our customized solutions are organized around the most common questions we hear about church growth, revitalization and leading more effectively. At Church Answers, we are growing healthy churches, together. [...]

Here at CGS we are often asked about the factors needed to ensure a successful capital campaign. Many could be mentioned, but in our experience few are more important than the quality of the campaign leadership team. In other words, you must recruit the “A – team”! You may be wondering “How do I identify and recruit the most qualified [...]

When it comes to creative stewardship, people are often encouraged to think “outside the box”. Sometimes, however, it pays to think “inside the box” — inside the boxed treasures found inside their own home. Many people own valuable physical assets that can be creatively gifted to your ministry. Tangible Personal Property Physical assets are referred to by the IRS as “tangible [...]

“Once upon a time” — most churches in America received their offerings pretty much the same way as they had done for generations. A group of ushers would march down the center aisle with plates in hand and pass them row by row. While the practice is traditional, it also allows the congregation to collectively experience something very special [...]

How can you increase and facilitate non-cash gifts of financial assets, real estate or tangible property? First, let your people know that you are actively seeking such gifts. This could be accomplished simply by publishing a quarterly announcement stating: “If you are interested in making a non-cash gift to our ministry such as stock, mutual funds or real estate, [...]

Church leaders have been talking about it for months, but now you are hearing rumblings from the congregation and even visitors . . . your building looks and feels “tired”. What should you do? Before embarking on a major building or renovation project, following are several recommended steps that will help make sure your congregation is ready: Focus on Ministry Needs: [...]