Looking for ways that will make funding your ministry easier? Look no further. Use these ideas, so you can spend less and thrive more.
Getting Creative
Perhaps you’re wondering if it’s possible to build community and numbers with more limited funding because you’re feeling called to steward your resources more wisely. Or maybe the governing body of your church wants you to be funding your ministry for less because financial giving is down in your congregation. Whatever the case, you can’t go wrong with ideas that will help you pinch some pennies.
But I know it can be difficult to think beyond what you’ve always done. This is the perfect time to look at your ministry from a new perspective and try something new. Not only could it save your church money, but it could also bring new life to your program. I hope these ideas do both!
So, you know you want to spend less. What now?
First, keep these two things in mind. God is present and at work no matter what resources are available. And use this as an excuse to get creative! Even if your ministry budget isn’t strained (yay!), having a few tips for stewarding your resources efficiently never hurts. You may even find ways of doing ministry that you’d never before considered.
I’ve got you covered with some fantastic, cheap ministry ideas that will get your creativity jump-started and help your church thrive. And wander over to my last post for even more inspiring ideas. I know you’ve got some amazing tips for funding your ministry on less, too. Share them in the comments below!
Gathering Ministry Supplies
Supplies can be a major portion of a ministry budget. Whether it’s craft supplies, paper goods, food, cleaning products, they all add up. But, supplies don’t need to be a major drain financially. Simply get a little creative and be specific in asking for what your group needs.
Back-to-Sunday School Party
Host a barbecue just before the kick-off of Sunday school. Invite the whole church and ask that they sign up to bring a supply that the ministry is in need of. For several weeks prior ask a volunteer to tend a table where congregation members can mark down which supply they’ll be bringing. During the party, introduce your volunteers and talk a bit about the upcoming year’s highlights.
Forming Relationships
Having a sustainable ministry that’s filled with life is based on strong relationships. We all need community and we return to churches over time because of it. It’s true for families and for youth, too. So much of your job as a ministry leader is facilitating relationships. As a result, when funds are tight, be sure to continue focusing on relationships. Prioritize ministry ideas that create opportunities for connections and making memories.
Meet-Ups
Get together with other churches in your town. Connect with other children’s and youth directors to plan events with them. It’s easiest if you can find other groups that meet at the same time your groups meet. Then, you can simply meet up with another group during a regular time. For example, do a game night during youth group with another church.
Breaking Bread
Something special happens when we share food together. This can be a major expense in ministry, but it doesn’t have to be. Bake birthday cupcakes monthly for volunteers, invite parents to sign-up to bring youth group meals, ask the congregation to purchase nursery snacks, schedule monthly potlucks with families.
Getting Out There
Within your city, there are likely several community-building events taking place throughout the year. These events can be fun for all ages. Additionally, they are also great for inviting new folks and don’t require lots of volunteer help.
Eat Locally
This is one of those ideas for funding your ministry on less that requires very little planning. Meet with youth and or families for a b.y.o. picnic or at a local restaurant for brunch, lunch or dinner. Your group can even make this a monthly or seasonal event. Choose a spot that’s inexpensive and a crowd-pleaser, if heading to a restaurant.
Thinking Seasonally
Often times there are free and low-cost options for ministry ideas that are happening locally. So, check out what’s going on in your town. Attend an Independence Day parade, play at the pumpkin patch, go trick-or-treating, look at Christmas lights, pick wildflowers. Doing festive seasonal things is a great time for kids to invite friends, too.
No matter your church’s budget, finding ways of funding your ministry on less can be helpful. We hope these ministry ideas allow your church to thrive, especially when resources are limited. And don’t forget to share in the comments below the ideas that have made it easier to fund your ministry on less!
