How to Beat the Summer Giving Slump with Recurring Donations at Your Church
Discover how your church can avoid a summer giving slump with recurring donations.
- Studies show that church weekly attendance drops over 30% in the summer
- A drop in attendance brings a drop in giving - giving amounts drop 14% in the summer months, and typically don't recover until November
- Data shows that recurring givers, on average, give more than double that of donors making one-time gifts throughout the year.
Summer is a season of sunshine, vacations... and often, shrinking church budgets.
If you’ve been in ministry for any length of time, you know the pattern: as attendance dips during the summer months, so does giving. This "Summer Giving Slump" can put real strain on your church’s ability to fund ongoing ministries, pay staff, and plan for future initiatives.
But what if there were a simple, lasting solution to help you break free from this cycle?
Recurring donations are one of the most effective ways churches can overcome the summer giving slump. By encouraging automated, scheduled giving, you create a steady stream of financial support, even when families are traveling or taking a break from regular attendance.
More than just a financial strategy, recurring giving strengthens the spiritual discipline of generosity among your congregation. It provides stability for your church while helping members grow in faithful stewardship.
In this guide, we'll walk through:
- What causes the summer giving slump
- Why recurring donations are the best antidote
- Practical steps to promote and normalize recurring giving in your church
Let’s dive in and set your church up for a financially strong summer and beyond.
What Causes the Summer Giving Slump in Churches?
The summer giving slump is part of the overall summer attendance slump. During the summer, many families travel or go on vacations. School is out, and normal weekly rhythms are disrupted. Overall, church attendance drops in the summer, and there is also a general decrease in engagement.
Statistics from the Unstuck Group indicate that summer attendance falls by 23% in June and a whopping 34% in July.
As attendance falls, so does giving. For many people, giving is tied to their regular attendance and involvement in church activities. When this routine is interrupted during the summer months, it results in a decrease in giving.
The Real Impact on Churches
The summer drop in giving creates real challenges for churches. It's tough to budget when you're not sure how much money will be coming in, and this can make it difficult to plan for events or ministries that require funding. It also puts a strain on staff and volunteers who may have to scramble to find ways to make up for the decrease in giving.
Why Recurring Giving Is the Best Strategy for Summer Giving Slumps
In case you're not clear, recurring giving is automated, scheduled donations set by congregants. The contributions are made automatically at regular intervals, such as weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
Online giving platforms like Tithely make it easy for church members to set up scheduled donations that will automatically be given to the church even if they don't attend on a given Sunday.
Key Benefits for Churches
Why are recurring donations so beneficial for churches? Several reasons.
First, they provide predictable cash flow, even during summer lulls. Recurring donations decouple church giving from church attendance. Regardless of attendance patterns, the church can still rely on consistent income to cover expenses and plan for future projects.
Second, recurring donations make budgeting easier. With a set amount of money coming in each month, churches can better manage their finances and allocate resources towards various ministries and programs.
Third, they reduce the need for constant giving reminders. Instead of relying on congregants to remember to give each week or month, recurring donations ensure a steady stream of income without the need for constant reminders.
Benefits for Donors
Recurring donations benefit donors as well.
First, recurring donations make consistent giving really convenient. Donors can set up automatic payments through their bank account or credit card, and have the peace of mind that their donation will be made on time each month.
Second, they align with biblical principles of faithful stewardship. By giving regularly, donors can practice sacrificial giving and honor God with their finances.
Third, recurring donations help church members prioritize generosity. When giving becomes a regular habit, it's easier for people to budget and plan their finances around their giving. This can also help individuals and families develop a heart of generosity and become more intentional with their money.
How to Promote and Increase Recurring Giving in Your Church
So, how do you actually get the members of your church to buy into recurring giving? Here are a few simple ways to increase recurring giving in your church.
Teach the Spiritual Why
To persuade the members of your church to implement recurring giving, you have to move beyond pragmatic reasons to the spiritual. You must remind your church members of the biblical principles and commands surrounding giving. Emphasize that giving is an act of worship, a way to honor God and demonstrate our trust in Him as our provider (Proverbs 3:9-10).
There is no Bible verse that says you must give at certain intervals to your church. However, the Bible does talk a lot about stewardship. To be a good steward, you must manage your resources wisely and use them to honor God. In the book of Malachi, God calls out His people for their lack of giving and promises blessings to those who are faithful in this area (Malachi 3:10).
Recurring giving is one way of faithfully stewarding the resources you've been given. It's not a command by any means, but it is a specific way to fulfill stewardship commands and orient your life toward generosity. If you’re looking for biblical inspiration on this topic, check out this sermon series on generosity, which unpacks the heart behind giving and how it shapes our walk with God.
Normalize Recurring Giving
As much as possible, make recurring giving the norm in your church. Talk about it during the offering or announcements. Have church leaders and staff model it as much as possible.
Additionally, regularly communicate the impact of recurring giving on your church's ministries and overall mission. Show how it helps with budget planning and enables consistent support for important initiatives. By normalizing recurring giving in your church culture, you're encouraging a mindset of faithful stewardship among your congregation.
Simplify the Setup Process
One of the biggest hindrances to recurring giving is a complicated setup process. If people have trouble understanding how to set up recurring giving, there's a really high chance they won't do it.
To simplify the process, implement a user-friendly giving platform like Tithely. With Tithely, your church members can easily set up recurring giving with just a few clicks.
Additionally, provide clear and concise instructions on how to set up recurring giving on your church website and in your bulletins or newsletters. This will help alleviate any confusion or frustration and make it easier for people to start giving regularly. You could also do a quick tutorial during a church service, showing people how easy it is to set up recurring giving and encouraging them to do it.
Communicate Consistently About It
In addition to talking about recurring giving during church services, communicate about it in other ways. Send out email and text reminders with direct links to set up recurring giving. Doing this will make the sign up process much easier for people and will help them remember to do it.
If possible, share short videos or testimonials from recurring givers about how it has blessed them. This will help people see the impact of their giving and may encourage them to sign up as well. Use social media to remind people about recurring giving and highlight the benefits of it, such as being able to give consistently even when they can't attend church in person.
Run a “Summer Generosity Challenge”
One creative way to overcome the summer giving slump is to run a summer generosity challenge, in which you encourage families to commit to recurring giving during the summer months. Consider setting a specific goal, such as increasing the number of recurring givers by a certain percentage or reaching a target amount of recurring donations.
You can also create fun challenges and rewards for those who participate, such as giving out prizes or organizing special events for donors who reach certain milestones.
Overcoming Common Objections to Automated Giving
Here are some objections to recurring giving that you might encounter, as well as some ways you can overcome those objections.
Objection: “I Like Putting Something in the Plate”
Some people like the physical act of putting something in the offering plate as it goes past them. It helps them feel more connected to the act of giving and the community.
Solution:
Consider making giving cards available which recurring donors can fill out and place in the basket as it passes. The simple act of filling out the card can have the same impact as writing a check or placing cash in the offering plate.
Objection: “I’m Not Sure I Can Afford It”
For some, the thought of locking into giving a specific amount each week or month might be intimidating. They may worry that they won’t be able to afford it in the future or that their financial situation may change.
Solution:
One way to address this objection is by emphasizing the flexibility of recurring giving. Let them know they can change or cancel their donation at any time, and remind them that even small amounts can make a big impact over time. You could also suggest starting with a smaller amount and gradually increasing it as they become more comfortable with recurring giving.
Objection: “I Don’t Trust Online Giving”
This objection is becoming less common as more and more people use digital financial tools like Venmo, but there may still be some in your church who are concerned about the security of online giving. They may worry that their information will be compromised in some way or that their identity could be stolen.
Solution:
Reassure your church members that online giving platforms like Tithely use the highest forms of digital security and encryption to protect their information. You can also share information like the fact that more than 50,000 churches trust Tithely to process their giving.
Next Steps for Your Church
So, what's next for your church when it comes to implementing recurring giving?
The first step is to assess your current giving setup. Do you have a giving platform in place that allows your church members to set up recurring giving? If not, consider signing up for Tithely today. Tithely makes it incredibly simple for people to start recurring giving.
Once you have your giving platform in place, you need to start talking about recurring giving on a regular basis. Communicate how it helps the church and how it can be a blessing to church members at the same time. Share testimonies from members who have experienced the benefits of recurring giving and highlight specific projects or initiatives that recurring giving supports.
And then finally, make sure you have an easy path in place for people to sign up for recurring giving. This could be through your church's website, a dedicated giving app, or even through text-to-give options. Make it as easy as possible for members to set up recurring giving and remind them regularly about the different ways they can give.
Conclusion
The summer giving slump doesn’t have to define your church’s financial story. With recurring donations, you can bring consistency to your church’s income, ease budgeting burdens, and empower your ministries to thrive, even during the slower summer months.
More than just a financial strategy, recurring giving is a practical way for your congregation to live out faithful stewardship and invest in the ongoing mission of your church, by teaching the “why,” normalizing the practice, simplifying the process, and communicating consistently, you can shift your church culture toward generosity that lasts all year long.
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Stephen Altrogge lives in Tallahassee, Florida. He is a dad to three wonderful girls and has written for publications like The Gospel Coalition, Church Leaders, Crosswalk, and many more. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him reading or watching The Lord Of the Rings for the 10th time.
- Studies show that church weekly attendance drops over 30% in the summer
- A drop in attendance brings a drop in giving - giving amounts drop 14% in the summer months, and typically don't recover until November
- Data shows that recurring givers, on average, give more than double that of donors making one-time gifts throughout the year.
Summer is a season of sunshine, vacations... and often, shrinking church budgets.
If you’ve been in ministry for any length of time, you know the pattern: as attendance dips during the summer months, so does giving. This "Summer Giving Slump" can put real strain on your church’s ability to fund ongoing ministries, pay staff, and plan for future initiatives.
But what if there were a simple, lasting solution to help you break free from this cycle?
Recurring donations are one of the most effective ways churches can overcome the summer giving slump. By encouraging automated, scheduled giving, you create a steady stream of financial support, even when families are traveling or taking a break from regular attendance.
More than just a financial strategy, recurring giving strengthens the spiritual discipline of generosity among your congregation. It provides stability for your church while helping members grow in faithful stewardship.
In this guide, we'll walk through:
- What causes the summer giving slump
- Why recurring donations are the best antidote
- Practical steps to promote and normalize recurring giving in your church
Let’s dive in and set your church up for a financially strong summer and beyond.
What Causes the Summer Giving Slump in Churches?
The summer giving slump is part of the overall summer attendance slump. During the summer, many families travel or go on vacations. School is out, and normal weekly rhythms are disrupted. Overall, church attendance drops in the summer, and there is also a general decrease in engagement.
Statistics from the Unstuck Group indicate that summer attendance falls by 23% in June and a whopping 34% in July.
As attendance falls, so does giving. For many people, giving is tied to their regular attendance and involvement in church activities. When this routine is interrupted during the summer months, it results in a decrease in giving.
The Real Impact on Churches
The summer drop in giving creates real challenges for churches. It's tough to budget when you're not sure how much money will be coming in, and this can make it difficult to plan for events or ministries that require funding. It also puts a strain on staff and volunteers who may have to scramble to find ways to make up for the decrease in giving.
Why Recurring Giving Is the Best Strategy for Summer Giving Slumps
In case you're not clear, recurring giving is automated, scheduled donations set by congregants. The contributions are made automatically at regular intervals, such as weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
Online giving platforms like Tithely make it easy for church members to set up scheduled donations that will automatically be given to the church even if they don't attend on a given Sunday.
Key Benefits for Churches
Why are recurring donations so beneficial for churches? Several reasons.
First, they provide predictable cash flow, even during summer lulls. Recurring donations decouple church giving from church attendance. Regardless of attendance patterns, the church can still rely on consistent income to cover expenses and plan for future projects.
Second, recurring donations make budgeting easier. With a set amount of money coming in each month, churches can better manage their finances and allocate resources towards various ministries and programs.
Third, they reduce the need for constant giving reminders. Instead of relying on congregants to remember to give each week or month, recurring donations ensure a steady stream of income without the need for constant reminders.
Benefits for Donors
Recurring donations benefit donors as well.
First, recurring donations make consistent giving really convenient. Donors can set up automatic payments through their bank account or credit card, and have the peace of mind that their donation will be made on time each month.
Second, they align with biblical principles of faithful stewardship. By giving regularly, donors can practice sacrificial giving and honor God with their finances.
Third, recurring donations help church members prioritize generosity. When giving becomes a regular habit, it's easier for people to budget and plan their finances around their giving. This can also help individuals and families develop a heart of generosity and become more intentional with their money.
How to Promote and Increase Recurring Giving in Your Church
So, how do you actually get the members of your church to buy into recurring giving? Here are a few simple ways to increase recurring giving in your church.
Teach the Spiritual Why
To persuade the members of your church to implement recurring giving, you have to move beyond pragmatic reasons to the spiritual. You must remind your church members of the biblical principles and commands surrounding giving. Emphasize that giving is an act of worship, a way to honor God and demonstrate our trust in Him as our provider (Proverbs 3:9-10).
There is no Bible verse that says you must give at certain intervals to your church. However, the Bible does talk a lot about stewardship. To be a good steward, you must manage your resources wisely and use them to honor God. In the book of Malachi, God calls out His people for their lack of giving and promises blessings to those who are faithful in this area (Malachi 3:10).
Recurring giving is one way of faithfully stewarding the resources you've been given. It's not a command by any means, but it is a specific way to fulfill stewardship commands and orient your life toward generosity. If you’re looking for biblical inspiration on this topic, check out this sermon series on generosity, which unpacks the heart behind giving and how it shapes our walk with God.
Normalize Recurring Giving
As much as possible, make recurring giving the norm in your church. Talk about it during the offering or announcements. Have church leaders and staff model it as much as possible.
Additionally, regularly communicate the impact of recurring giving on your church's ministries and overall mission. Show how it helps with budget planning and enables consistent support for important initiatives. By normalizing recurring giving in your church culture, you're encouraging a mindset of faithful stewardship among your congregation.
Simplify the Setup Process
One of the biggest hindrances to recurring giving is a complicated setup process. If people have trouble understanding how to set up recurring giving, there's a really high chance they won't do it.
To simplify the process, implement a user-friendly giving platform like Tithely. With Tithely, your church members can easily set up recurring giving with just a few clicks.
Additionally, provide clear and concise instructions on how to set up recurring giving on your church website and in your bulletins or newsletters. This will help alleviate any confusion or frustration and make it easier for people to start giving regularly. You could also do a quick tutorial during a church service, showing people how easy it is to set up recurring giving and encouraging them to do it.
Communicate Consistently About It
In addition to talking about recurring giving during church services, communicate about it in other ways. Send out email and text reminders with direct links to set up recurring giving. Doing this will make the sign up process much easier for people and will help them remember to do it.
If possible, share short videos or testimonials from recurring givers about how it has blessed them. This will help people see the impact of their giving and may encourage them to sign up as well. Use social media to remind people about recurring giving and highlight the benefits of it, such as being able to give consistently even when they can't attend church in person.
Run a “Summer Generosity Challenge”
One creative way to overcome the summer giving slump is to run a summer generosity challenge, in which you encourage families to commit to recurring giving during the summer months. Consider setting a specific goal, such as increasing the number of recurring givers by a certain percentage or reaching a target amount of recurring donations.
You can also create fun challenges and rewards for those who participate, such as giving out prizes or organizing special events for donors who reach certain milestones.
Overcoming Common Objections to Automated Giving
Here are some objections to recurring giving that you might encounter, as well as some ways you can overcome those objections.
Objection: “I Like Putting Something in the Plate”
Some people like the physical act of putting something in the offering plate as it goes past them. It helps them feel more connected to the act of giving and the community.
Solution:
Consider making giving cards available which recurring donors can fill out and place in the basket as it passes. The simple act of filling out the card can have the same impact as writing a check or placing cash in the offering plate.
Objection: “I’m Not Sure I Can Afford It”
For some, the thought of locking into giving a specific amount each week or month might be intimidating. They may worry that they won’t be able to afford it in the future or that their financial situation may change.
Solution:
One way to address this objection is by emphasizing the flexibility of recurring giving. Let them know they can change or cancel their donation at any time, and remind them that even small amounts can make a big impact over time. You could also suggest starting with a smaller amount and gradually increasing it as they become more comfortable with recurring giving.
Objection: “I Don’t Trust Online Giving”
This objection is becoming less common as more and more people use digital financial tools like Venmo, but there may still be some in your church who are concerned about the security of online giving. They may worry that their information will be compromised in some way or that their identity could be stolen.
Solution:
Reassure your church members that online giving platforms like Tithely use the highest forms of digital security and encryption to protect their information. You can also share information like the fact that more than 50,000 churches trust Tithely to process their giving.
Next Steps for Your Church
So, what's next for your church when it comes to implementing recurring giving?
The first step is to assess your current giving setup. Do you have a giving platform in place that allows your church members to set up recurring giving? If not, consider signing up for Tithely today. Tithely makes it incredibly simple for people to start recurring giving.
Once you have your giving platform in place, you need to start talking about recurring giving on a regular basis. Communicate how it helps the church and how it can be a blessing to church members at the same time. Share testimonies from members who have experienced the benefits of recurring giving and highlight specific projects or initiatives that recurring giving supports.
And then finally, make sure you have an easy path in place for people to sign up for recurring giving. This could be through your church's website, a dedicated giving app, or even through text-to-give options. Make it as easy as possible for members to set up recurring giving and remind them regularly about the different ways they can give.
Conclusion
The summer giving slump doesn’t have to define your church’s financial story. With recurring donations, you can bring consistency to your church’s income, ease budgeting burdens, and empower your ministries to thrive, even during the slower summer months.
More than just a financial strategy, recurring giving is a practical way for your congregation to live out faithful stewardship and invest in the ongoing mission of your church, by teaching the “why,” normalizing the practice, simplifying the process, and communicating consistently, you can shift your church culture toward generosity that lasts all year long.
podcast transcript
Stephen Altrogge lives in Tallahassee, Florida. He is a dad to three wonderful girls and has written for publications like The Gospel Coalition, Church Leaders, Crosswalk, and many more. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him reading or watching The Lord Of the Rings for the 10th time.
- Studies show that church weekly attendance drops over 30% in the summer
- A drop in attendance brings a drop in giving - giving amounts drop 14% in the summer months, and typically don't recover until November
- Data shows that recurring givers, on average, give more than double that of donors making one-time gifts throughout the year.
Summer is a season of sunshine, vacations... and often, shrinking church budgets.
If you’ve been in ministry for any length of time, you know the pattern: as attendance dips during the summer months, so does giving. This "Summer Giving Slump" can put real strain on your church’s ability to fund ongoing ministries, pay staff, and plan for future initiatives.
But what if there were a simple, lasting solution to help you break free from this cycle?
Recurring donations are one of the most effective ways churches can overcome the summer giving slump. By encouraging automated, scheduled giving, you create a steady stream of financial support, even when families are traveling or taking a break from regular attendance.
More than just a financial strategy, recurring giving strengthens the spiritual discipline of generosity among your congregation. It provides stability for your church while helping members grow in faithful stewardship.
In this guide, we'll walk through:
- What causes the summer giving slump
- Why recurring donations are the best antidote
- Practical steps to promote and normalize recurring giving in your church
Let’s dive in and set your church up for a financially strong summer and beyond.
What Causes the Summer Giving Slump in Churches?
The summer giving slump is part of the overall summer attendance slump. During the summer, many families travel or go on vacations. School is out, and normal weekly rhythms are disrupted. Overall, church attendance drops in the summer, and there is also a general decrease in engagement.
Statistics from the Unstuck Group indicate that summer attendance falls by 23% in June and a whopping 34% in July.
As attendance falls, so does giving. For many people, giving is tied to their regular attendance and involvement in church activities. When this routine is interrupted during the summer months, it results in a decrease in giving.
The Real Impact on Churches
The summer drop in giving creates real challenges for churches. It's tough to budget when you're not sure how much money will be coming in, and this can make it difficult to plan for events or ministries that require funding. It also puts a strain on staff and volunteers who may have to scramble to find ways to make up for the decrease in giving.
Why Recurring Giving Is the Best Strategy for Summer Giving Slumps
In case you're not clear, recurring giving is automated, scheduled donations set by congregants. The contributions are made automatically at regular intervals, such as weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
Online giving platforms like Tithely make it easy for church members to set up scheduled donations that will automatically be given to the church even if they don't attend on a given Sunday.
Key Benefits for Churches
Why are recurring donations so beneficial for churches? Several reasons.
First, they provide predictable cash flow, even during summer lulls. Recurring donations decouple church giving from church attendance. Regardless of attendance patterns, the church can still rely on consistent income to cover expenses and plan for future projects.
Second, recurring donations make budgeting easier. With a set amount of money coming in each month, churches can better manage their finances and allocate resources towards various ministries and programs.
Third, they reduce the need for constant giving reminders. Instead of relying on congregants to remember to give each week or month, recurring donations ensure a steady stream of income without the need for constant reminders.
Benefits for Donors
Recurring donations benefit donors as well.
First, recurring donations make consistent giving really convenient. Donors can set up automatic payments through their bank account or credit card, and have the peace of mind that their donation will be made on time each month.
Second, they align with biblical principles of faithful stewardship. By giving regularly, donors can practice sacrificial giving and honor God with their finances.
Third, recurring donations help church members prioritize generosity. When giving becomes a regular habit, it's easier for people to budget and plan their finances around their giving. This can also help individuals and families develop a heart of generosity and become more intentional with their money.
How to Promote and Increase Recurring Giving in Your Church
So, how do you actually get the members of your church to buy into recurring giving? Here are a few simple ways to increase recurring giving in your church.
Teach the Spiritual Why
To persuade the members of your church to implement recurring giving, you have to move beyond pragmatic reasons to the spiritual. You must remind your church members of the biblical principles and commands surrounding giving. Emphasize that giving is an act of worship, a way to honor God and demonstrate our trust in Him as our provider (Proverbs 3:9-10).
There is no Bible verse that says you must give at certain intervals to your church. However, the Bible does talk a lot about stewardship. To be a good steward, you must manage your resources wisely and use them to honor God. In the book of Malachi, God calls out His people for their lack of giving and promises blessings to those who are faithful in this area (Malachi 3:10).
Recurring giving is one way of faithfully stewarding the resources you've been given. It's not a command by any means, but it is a specific way to fulfill stewardship commands and orient your life toward generosity. If you’re looking for biblical inspiration on this topic, check out this sermon series on generosity, which unpacks the heart behind giving and how it shapes our walk with God.
Normalize Recurring Giving
As much as possible, make recurring giving the norm in your church. Talk about it during the offering or announcements. Have church leaders and staff model it as much as possible.
Additionally, regularly communicate the impact of recurring giving on your church's ministries and overall mission. Show how it helps with budget planning and enables consistent support for important initiatives. By normalizing recurring giving in your church culture, you're encouraging a mindset of faithful stewardship among your congregation.
Simplify the Setup Process
One of the biggest hindrances to recurring giving is a complicated setup process. If people have trouble understanding how to set up recurring giving, there's a really high chance they won't do it.
To simplify the process, implement a user-friendly giving platform like Tithely. With Tithely, your church members can easily set up recurring giving with just a few clicks.
Additionally, provide clear and concise instructions on how to set up recurring giving on your church website and in your bulletins or newsletters. This will help alleviate any confusion or frustration and make it easier for people to start giving regularly. You could also do a quick tutorial during a church service, showing people how easy it is to set up recurring giving and encouraging them to do it.
Communicate Consistently About It
In addition to talking about recurring giving during church services, communicate about it in other ways. Send out email and text reminders with direct links to set up recurring giving. Doing this will make the sign up process much easier for people and will help them remember to do it.
If possible, share short videos or testimonials from recurring givers about how it has blessed them. This will help people see the impact of their giving and may encourage them to sign up as well. Use social media to remind people about recurring giving and highlight the benefits of it, such as being able to give consistently even when they can't attend church in person.
Run a “Summer Generosity Challenge”
One creative way to overcome the summer giving slump is to run a summer generosity challenge, in which you encourage families to commit to recurring giving during the summer months. Consider setting a specific goal, such as increasing the number of recurring givers by a certain percentage or reaching a target amount of recurring donations.
You can also create fun challenges and rewards for those who participate, such as giving out prizes or organizing special events for donors who reach certain milestones.
Overcoming Common Objections to Automated Giving
Here are some objections to recurring giving that you might encounter, as well as some ways you can overcome those objections.
Objection: “I Like Putting Something in the Plate”
Some people like the physical act of putting something in the offering plate as it goes past them. It helps them feel more connected to the act of giving and the community.
Solution:
Consider making giving cards available which recurring donors can fill out and place in the basket as it passes. The simple act of filling out the card can have the same impact as writing a check or placing cash in the offering plate.
Objection: “I’m Not Sure I Can Afford It”
For some, the thought of locking into giving a specific amount each week or month might be intimidating. They may worry that they won’t be able to afford it in the future or that their financial situation may change.
Solution:
One way to address this objection is by emphasizing the flexibility of recurring giving. Let them know they can change or cancel their donation at any time, and remind them that even small amounts can make a big impact over time. You could also suggest starting with a smaller amount and gradually increasing it as they become more comfortable with recurring giving.
Objection: “I Don’t Trust Online Giving”
This objection is becoming less common as more and more people use digital financial tools like Venmo, but there may still be some in your church who are concerned about the security of online giving. They may worry that their information will be compromised in some way or that their identity could be stolen.
Solution:
Reassure your church members that online giving platforms like Tithely use the highest forms of digital security and encryption to protect their information. You can also share information like the fact that more than 50,000 churches trust Tithely to process their giving.
Next Steps for Your Church
So, what's next for your church when it comes to implementing recurring giving?
The first step is to assess your current giving setup. Do you have a giving platform in place that allows your church members to set up recurring giving? If not, consider signing up for Tithely today. Tithely makes it incredibly simple for people to start recurring giving.
Once you have your giving platform in place, you need to start talking about recurring giving on a regular basis. Communicate how it helps the church and how it can be a blessing to church members at the same time. Share testimonies from members who have experienced the benefits of recurring giving and highlight specific projects or initiatives that recurring giving supports.
And then finally, make sure you have an easy path in place for people to sign up for recurring giving. This could be through your church's website, a dedicated giving app, or even through text-to-give options. Make it as easy as possible for members to set up recurring giving and remind them regularly about the different ways they can give.
Conclusion
The summer giving slump doesn’t have to define your church’s financial story. With recurring donations, you can bring consistency to your church’s income, ease budgeting burdens, and empower your ministries to thrive, even during the slower summer months.
More than just a financial strategy, recurring giving is a practical way for your congregation to live out faithful stewardship and invest in the ongoing mission of your church, by teaching the “why,” normalizing the practice, simplifying the process, and communicating consistently, you can shift your church culture toward generosity that lasts all year long.
VIDEO transcript
- Studies show that church weekly attendance drops over 30% in the summer
- A drop in attendance brings a drop in giving - giving amounts drop 14% in the summer months, and typically don't recover until November
- Data shows that recurring givers, on average, give more than double that of donors making one-time gifts throughout the year.
Summer is a season of sunshine, vacations... and often, shrinking church budgets.
If you’ve been in ministry for any length of time, you know the pattern: as attendance dips during the summer months, so does giving. This "Summer Giving Slump" can put real strain on your church’s ability to fund ongoing ministries, pay staff, and plan for future initiatives.
But what if there were a simple, lasting solution to help you break free from this cycle?
Recurring donations are one of the most effective ways churches can overcome the summer giving slump. By encouraging automated, scheduled giving, you create a steady stream of financial support, even when families are traveling or taking a break from regular attendance.
More than just a financial strategy, recurring giving strengthens the spiritual discipline of generosity among your congregation. It provides stability for your church while helping members grow in faithful stewardship.
In this guide, we'll walk through:
- What causes the summer giving slump
- Why recurring donations are the best antidote
- Practical steps to promote and normalize recurring giving in your church
Let’s dive in and set your church up for a financially strong summer and beyond.
What Causes the Summer Giving Slump in Churches?
The summer giving slump is part of the overall summer attendance slump. During the summer, many families travel or go on vacations. School is out, and normal weekly rhythms are disrupted. Overall, church attendance drops in the summer, and there is also a general decrease in engagement.
Statistics from the Unstuck Group indicate that summer attendance falls by 23% in June and a whopping 34% in July.
As attendance falls, so does giving. For many people, giving is tied to their regular attendance and involvement in church activities. When this routine is interrupted during the summer months, it results in a decrease in giving.
The Real Impact on Churches
The summer drop in giving creates real challenges for churches. It's tough to budget when you're not sure how much money will be coming in, and this can make it difficult to plan for events or ministries that require funding. It also puts a strain on staff and volunteers who may have to scramble to find ways to make up for the decrease in giving.
Why Recurring Giving Is the Best Strategy for Summer Giving Slumps
In case you're not clear, recurring giving is automated, scheduled donations set by congregants. The contributions are made automatically at regular intervals, such as weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
Online giving platforms like Tithely make it easy for church members to set up scheduled donations that will automatically be given to the church even if they don't attend on a given Sunday.
Key Benefits for Churches
Why are recurring donations so beneficial for churches? Several reasons.
First, they provide predictable cash flow, even during summer lulls. Recurring donations decouple church giving from church attendance. Regardless of attendance patterns, the church can still rely on consistent income to cover expenses and plan for future projects.
Second, recurring donations make budgeting easier. With a set amount of money coming in each month, churches can better manage their finances and allocate resources towards various ministries and programs.
Third, they reduce the need for constant giving reminders. Instead of relying on congregants to remember to give each week or month, recurring donations ensure a steady stream of income without the need for constant reminders.
Benefits for Donors
Recurring donations benefit donors as well.
First, recurring donations make consistent giving really convenient. Donors can set up automatic payments through their bank account or credit card, and have the peace of mind that their donation will be made on time each month.
Second, they align with biblical principles of faithful stewardship. By giving regularly, donors can practice sacrificial giving and honor God with their finances.
Third, recurring donations help church members prioritize generosity. When giving becomes a regular habit, it's easier for people to budget and plan their finances around their giving. This can also help individuals and families develop a heart of generosity and become more intentional with their money.
How to Promote and Increase Recurring Giving in Your Church
So, how do you actually get the members of your church to buy into recurring giving? Here are a few simple ways to increase recurring giving in your church.
Teach the Spiritual Why
To persuade the members of your church to implement recurring giving, you have to move beyond pragmatic reasons to the spiritual. You must remind your church members of the biblical principles and commands surrounding giving. Emphasize that giving is an act of worship, a way to honor God and demonstrate our trust in Him as our provider (Proverbs 3:9-10).
There is no Bible verse that says you must give at certain intervals to your church. However, the Bible does talk a lot about stewardship. To be a good steward, you must manage your resources wisely and use them to honor God. In the book of Malachi, God calls out His people for their lack of giving and promises blessings to those who are faithful in this area (Malachi 3:10).
Recurring giving is one way of faithfully stewarding the resources you've been given. It's not a command by any means, but it is a specific way to fulfill stewardship commands and orient your life toward generosity. If you’re looking for biblical inspiration on this topic, check out this sermon series on generosity, which unpacks the heart behind giving and how it shapes our walk with God.
Normalize Recurring Giving
As much as possible, make recurring giving the norm in your church. Talk about it during the offering or announcements. Have church leaders and staff model it as much as possible.
Additionally, regularly communicate the impact of recurring giving on your church's ministries and overall mission. Show how it helps with budget planning and enables consistent support for important initiatives. By normalizing recurring giving in your church culture, you're encouraging a mindset of faithful stewardship among your congregation.
Simplify the Setup Process
One of the biggest hindrances to recurring giving is a complicated setup process. If people have trouble understanding how to set up recurring giving, there's a really high chance they won't do it.
To simplify the process, implement a user-friendly giving platform like Tithely. With Tithely, your church members can easily set up recurring giving with just a few clicks.
Additionally, provide clear and concise instructions on how to set up recurring giving on your church website and in your bulletins or newsletters. This will help alleviate any confusion or frustration and make it easier for people to start giving regularly. You could also do a quick tutorial during a church service, showing people how easy it is to set up recurring giving and encouraging them to do it.
Communicate Consistently About It
In addition to talking about recurring giving during church services, communicate about it in other ways. Send out email and text reminders with direct links to set up recurring giving. Doing this will make the sign up process much easier for people and will help them remember to do it.
If possible, share short videos or testimonials from recurring givers about how it has blessed them. This will help people see the impact of their giving and may encourage them to sign up as well. Use social media to remind people about recurring giving and highlight the benefits of it, such as being able to give consistently even when they can't attend church in person.
Run a “Summer Generosity Challenge”
One creative way to overcome the summer giving slump is to run a summer generosity challenge, in which you encourage families to commit to recurring giving during the summer months. Consider setting a specific goal, such as increasing the number of recurring givers by a certain percentage or reaching a target amount of recurring donations.
You can also create fun challenges and rewards for those who participate, such as giving out prizes or organizing special events for donors who reach certain milestones.
Overcoming Common Objections to Automated Giving
Here are some objections to recurring giving that you might encounter, as well as some ways you can overcome those objections.
Objection: “I Like Putting Something in the Plate”
Some people like the physical act of putting something in the offering plate as it goes past them. It helps them feel more connected to the act of giving and the community.
Solution:
Consider making giving cards available which recurring donors can fill out and place in the basket as it passes. The simple act of filling out the card can have the same impact as writing a check or placing cash in the offering plate.
Objection: “I’m Not Sure I Can Afford It”
For some, the thought of locking into giving a specific amount each week or month might be intimidating. They may worry that they won’t be able to afford it in the future or that their financial situation may change.
Solution:
One way to address this objection is by emphasizing the flexibility of recurring giving. Let them know they can change or cancel their donation at any time, and remind them that even small amounts can make a big impact over time. You could also suggest starting with a smaller amount and gradually increasing it as they become more comfortable with recurring giving.
Objection: “I Don’t Trust Online Giving”
This objection is becoming less common as more and more people use digital financial tools like Venmo, but there may still be some in your church who are concerned about the security of online giving. They may worry that their information will be compromised in some way or that their identity could be stolen.
Solution:
Reassure your church members that online giving platforms like Tithely use the highest forms of digital security and encryption to protect their information. You can also share information like the fact that more than 50,000 churches trust Tithely to process their giving.
Next Steps for Your Church
So, what's next for your church when it comes to implementing recurring giving?
The first step is to assess your current giving setup. Do you have a giving platform in place that allows your church members to set up recurring giving? If not, consider signing up for Tithely today. Tithely makes it incredibly simple for people to start recurring giving.
Once you have your giving platform in place, you need to start talking about recurring giving on a regular basis. Communicate how it helps the church and how it can be a blessing to church members at the same time. Share testimonies from members who have experienced the benefits of recurring giving and highlight specific projects or initiatives that recurring giving supports.
And then finally, make sure you have an easy path in place for people to sign up for recurring giving. This could be through your church's website, a dedicated giving app, or even through text-to-give options. Make it as easy as possible for members to set up recurring giving and remind them regularly about the different ways they can give.
Conclusion
The summer giving slump doesn’t have to define your church’s financial story. With recurring donations, you can bring consistency to your church’s income, ease budgeting burdens, and empower your ministries to thrive, even during the slower summer months.
More than just a financial strategy, recurring giving is a practical way for your congregation to live out faithful stewardship and invest in the ongoing mission of your church, by teaching the “why,” normalizing the practice, simplifying the process, and communicating consistently, you can shift your church culture toward generosity that lasts all year long.
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Stephen Altrogge lives in Tallahassee, Florida. He is a dad to three wonderful girls and has written for publications like The Gospel Coalition, Church Leaders, Crosswalk, and many more. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him reading or watching The Lord Of the Rings for the 10th time.
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