Leadership

How Churches Spend, Why They Stagnate, and What They Do to Grow

This week on Modern Church Leader, we talked through the struggles churches are facing with spending money, making changes and digital limitations.
July 10, 2020
Modern Church Leader talks about How Churches Spend, Why They Stagnate, and What They Do to Grow
Caroline Morris

Caroline Morris serves as the Marketing and Event Coordinator for Tithe.y. Her heart is to see the growth of generosity in the local church, and she loves leading a small group of young professional women. Caroline lives in Tennessee with her husband and loves the color orange.

H1 What’s a Rich Text element?

H2 What’s a Rich Text element?

H3 What’s a Rich Text element?

H4 What’s a Rich Text element?

H5 What’s a Rich Text element?
H6 What’s a Rich Text element?

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

H4 Static and dynamic content editing

A rich text element can be used with static or dynamic content. For static content, just drop it into any page and begin editing. For dynamic content, add a rich text field to any collection and then connect a rich text element to that field in the settings panel. Voila!

H4 How to customize formatting for each rich text

Headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.

  • List Item 1
  • List Item 2
  • List Item 3

Headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.

Headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.

This week on Modern Church Leader, we talked through the struggles churches are facing with spending money, making changes and digital limitations. We also hear from Tithe.ly CEO, Dean Sweetman, as he prepares us for Church Capital Campaigns. Lastly, be sure to check out our COO, Frank Barry’s interview with Seattle Church of Church’s Lead Pastor, Daren Overstreet.

How Churches Really Spend Their Money: 20 Fascinating Data Points [A New Study]

In this episode of Modern Church Leader, we dig deep to see how churches really spend their money. Check out these 20 Fascinating Data Points by Tithe.ly Content Strategist, Paul Maxwell.

Church Capital Campaigns: Are You Ready?

In  Modern Church Leader, Tithe.ly CEO Dean Sweetman walks us through church capital campaigns. Tune in if you are ready!

3 Things Keeping Your Church From Changing (And How to Fix Them)

In this episode,, Content Strategist, Paul Maxwell speaks into the 3 things keeping your church from changing... and how to fix them.

4 Digital Giving Myths That Are Crippling Your Church Growth

In this episode of Modern Church Leader, Tithe.ly Content Strategist, Paul Maxwell takes us through the 4 Digital Giving Myths that are Crippling Your Church Growth. Tune in for more from Modern Church Leader!

CHOP Zone & Church: How 2020 Will Change the Way Church Looks

This week on Modern Church Leader, Frank Barry talks with Darren Overstreet, Lead Pastor of the multi-campus Seattle Church of Christ. The two discuss some of the things that are affecting churches all over the world as we go through pandemics, protests, and a US election cycle ...


  • What might God be teaching us through these tough times?
  • The future of small groups & community
  • How to staff for the future?
  • Adjusting to Online Church Attendance
  • How financial giving plays a major role in the future?


Join us .. and share w/ a friend who you think should listen in!

Over to You

Never miss a show, subscribe via:

Subscribe for cutting edge tools and strategies for church leaders.

Is your church in financial trouble? Do you wish you had more resources to reach people for Christ?

‍Subscribe to Modern Church Leader to get daily tips on how to increase giving, remove the stress from managing your church, and grow your church with the latest digital tools.

Grow Your Church For Free With Tithe.ly

What is Tithe.ly?

Tithe.ly is the global leader in digital giving, church engagement, and church management software. Tithe.ly serves over 25,000 churches in 55 countries, and is trusted by churches and ministries such as Hillsong, North Coast Church, Rock Church, and Ravi Zacharias International Ministries.

podcast transcript

(Scroll for more)
Caroline Morris

Caroline Morris serves as the Marketing and Event Coordinator for Tithe.y. Her heart is to see the growth of generosity in the local church, and she loves leading a small group of young professional women. Caroline lives in Tennessee with her husband and loves the color orange.

H1 What’s a Rich Text element?

H2 What’s a Rich Text element?

H3 What’s a Rich Text element?

H4 What’s a Rich Text element?

H5 What’s a Rich Text element?
H6 What’s a Rich Text element?

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

H4 Static and dynamic content editing

A rich text element can be used with static or dynamic content. For static content, just drop it into any page and begin editing. For dynamic content, add a rich text field to any collection and then connect a rich text element to that field in the settings panel. Voila!

H4 How to customize formatting for each rich text

Headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.

  • List Item 1
  • List Item 2
  • List Item 3

Headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.

Headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.

Blog

How Churches Spend, Why They Stagnate, and What They Do to Grow

The Perfect Church Service Plan: How to Make Your Worship Service Smooth and Professional
The "perfect church service plan" isn't a myth. It's a reality that can help your members' worship experience be smoother and more professional. And it's easy to implement with these 11 steps.
July 19, 2022
How To Make A Church Video Announcement That Gets People Excited
Church video announcements are a great way to get your congregation excited about what's going on.However, if you're not careful you might come across as boring or unprofessional. There are some key tips that you can follow to make sure your church video announcements are effective. This blog post will outline those tips and what they can mean to your church's success.
June 28, 2022
Andy Stanley’s New Book: For Leaders & the Local Church
Disagreement about hot topic issues are breaking apart communities and dividing the church. Andy Stanley’s new book–Not In It To Win It: Why Choosing Sides Sidelines the Church–is about how to approach this crisis as a leader following Jesus.
June 24, 2022
Should Pastors Use LinkedIn? Why
LinkedIn has changed the way people think about professionalism, and has certainly changed the way people seek employment and networking opportunities. But is it right for pastors?In the following article, we’ll take a look at what LinkedIn is, why it’s beneficial, and why it can be a tool for pastors to connect with others, expand their networks, and grow the Church.
June 23, 2022
How to Develop a Disciple Making Mindset
Every church leader knows that our mission from Jesus himself is to make disciples. But, let’s be honest: It’s easy to spend a lot of time distracted by “shadow missions” and overwhelmed by busywork. In this week's blog, you'll learn four keys to making the mindset shift to a disciple-making mindset.
June 23, 2022
How To Review Your Sermon Part 4 - The Counter Arguments
This is the last of our 4 part series of How to Review Your Sermon. We've covered arguments for why you should review a sermon, but some of you might have arguments against it. This weeks article we'll explore how these tensions can be overcome.
June 7, 2022
How To Review Your Sermon Part 3 - The How
Most preachers take 10-20 hours each week to prepare their sermon. The review process should only take you 90 minutes. 45 minutes to preach and 45 minutes to review. So go the extra mile and create room for these 90 minutes and do the review. We continue our 4 part series in this weeks article.
June 2, 2022
How To Review Your Sermon Part 2 - The Why
The sermon review not only makes an individual message better, it also makes future messages better. You can apply review from your current message to your next message. Think of it as compound interest for messages. It builds upon itself.We continue our 4 part series in this weeks article.
May 31, 2022
How To Review Your Sermon Blog
Reviewing your sermon affirms what is working, tweaks what is broken and ultimately makes the experience more engaging,In this 4 part series, we'll be sharing the key components of your sermon to review.
May 26, 2022
20 Ways To Infuse Creativity Into Your Services Part 2
If God is creative then our services should reflect that. If His mercies are new every morning, then our weekly services should showcase this newness.We continue with the 20 ways to infuse creativity into your services.
May 20, 2022
Why ‘Cool Church’ is no longer working with Millennials and Gen Z
With Millennials and Gen Z drifting from local churches, an instinctive reaction is often that we need to make our churches cooler, improve our social media, and present a younger image.This is really a misread on what these generations actually want. They have been marketed and advertised to at an unprecedented rate their entire lives. So, what do they want? This weeks article explores exactly like.
May 20, 2022
Circles not ladders: 3 relational habits to win with Millennials and Gen Z
A new generation is here, and they think, relate, and live differently than any other generation before them. Millennials and Gen Z are optimists, talented, creative, and collaborators. They are also driven by a thirst for significance. They are relational, and have an inbuilt desire for authenticity. In this week's article are some ideas to help you relate to new generations.
May 20, 2022
7 Father’s Day Ideas for Churches
Are you struggling for ideas for celebrating Father’s Day at your church? With a little creativity and excellent execution, your church can host a memorable and honoring Father’s Day. Here are seven ideas for celebrating Father’s Day this June.
May 19, 2022
20 Ways To Infuse Creativity Into Your Services Part 1
Creating 52 stunning services year after year can be tough. So here are 20 ways to infuse them with creativity. Hopefully these will help you get through any slump you face this year.
May 17, 2022
3 Ways Jesus Was a Marketing Genius
For those who work in marketing, whether in a church related role or otherwise, it can be tempting to separate our Christian beliefs from our occupation. But what if we could find an intersection between Jesus’ ministry and our marketing efforts? In fact, Jesus was a marketing genius.Check out how in this article.
May 5, 2022
5 Ways to Have Online Church Without Losing the Sense of Community
Many people are concerned that having a church online will mean that they lose the sense of community that's supposed to be a big part of the church. But is that really the case?A virtual church doesn't mean there isn’t community — it may just mean that the community is no longer represented by the church building itself. In this blog, we discuss five ways you can make an online church more like an actual brick-and-mortar church.
April 26, 2022
7 Mother's Day Ideas for Churches
Every year, we celebrate moms on the second Sunday of May. We give them flowers, say “Happy Mother’s Day!” and eat special brunch food (french toast, anyone?) In the following article, we’ll look at seven ways that your church can plan for and celebrate Mother’s Day with joy, creativity, and thoughtfulness.
April 12, 2022
Best Free Church Leadership Training Materials 2022
Leadership is the ability to influence others towards accomplishing a common goal. In the following guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best resources available–including podcasts, video teaching, and more–from some of the most effective leaders in ministry today.
March 8, 2022
How to Start a Church: The Complete, Step-by-Step Guide
A comprehensive how-to for building a meeting into a full-blown church.
February 25, 2022
SWOT For Organizations With A Large % of Post COVID Staff
Because of so much transition over the past two years, the majority of staff in many organizations have no organizational knowledge or experience of the pre COVID years. This basic SWOT helps the growing list of organizations in this formative position.
February 8, 2022
Transitioning Staff Well
Staffing turnover dramatically increased during the global pandemic. So organizations have needed to become better at transitioning staff well for the sake of the supervisor, organization and departing staff.
December 21, 2021
Our Leadership Got COVID... This is What We Learned
A leadership team got COVID during the same week. In our recent article we some lessons they learned through the experience. This will be helpful to you in order to navigate if / when your leadership gets hit.
December 2, 2021
Spiritual Disciplines: Giving
Last but not least, we round out our series on Spiritual Disciplines with Giving. What happens when we shift our thinking on generosity from something we need to do, to someone we get to be?
October 5, 2021
Spiritual Disciplines: Meditation
We continue the series on Spiritual Disciplines in this post on Meditation. What is the Biblical context for meditation, how is it different from prayer, and what makes it different from Eastern Meditation? We tackle all that and more in this post!
September 28, 2021
Time Management and Church Leaders
Leading an organization as complex and evolving as a church requires an enormous amount of diligence. But more than that, it requires the ability to manage personal time, prioritize demands, and stay focused. With multiple types of work to juggle, knowing how to organize and delegate time is critical for pastors, ministry leaders, admin, worship leaders, children’s pastors, and more. In this article we provide you with how to do more than just plan for time management success, but how to achieve it.
September 21, 2021
Spiritual Disciplines: Prayer
When’s the last time you thought deeply about your prayer life? In this post, we explore what a meaningful prayer life looks like and how to encourage those in your influence to seek that for themselves.
September 7, 2021
Labor Day 2022 Sermon Ideas
What is Labor Day, where did it come from, and how should you incorporate it into this Sunday's church service? Here we give you three sermon ideas for Labor Day 2021, five Labor Day sermons from years past, fifteen scriptures to include in your Labor Day sermon, and more.
August 31, 2021
Spiritual Disciplines: Fasting
Fasting has a rich Biblical history, so why is it we often don’t hear about it as often as other disciplines? In this post we explore what the Bible says about fasting and how it should be applied today.
August 26, 2021
The War of Passion and Exhaustion
It is interesting how the degree of “goodness” of what we are working toward (or are in the middle of) doesn’t safeguard against us waning passion. So how do we pursue and sustain passion in the midst of having a wearied soul? In this blog post we explore this question.
August 24, 2021
Your Purpose Is Not Hiding From You
"Find your purpose". For so many, it is misunderstood as an unnecessary pressure to perform, to “do big things” or “start something.” It gets tied to identity and worth in a way that I am on a mission to metaphorically break apart.
August 17, 2021
Here's What to Know About Going Digital at Your Church
Today's abundance of church digital solutions can make going digital a tumultuous feat, all-hands-on-deck, never-ending nightmare for churches that are more privy to the just-show-up-and-sing church of yesteryear. Okay, maybe not that bad. Adding digital features to your church ensemble helps your church reach people as they are, where they are (on their phones, in their laptops – online!) Here are six things to keep in mind as your church considers adding digital solutions to the assembly.
August 9, 2021
A Guide to Creating a Killer Church Website
"Last week we posted about the best free websites for churches in 2021. Now we dive deeper to see how user experience (UX), clear copywriting, and regular site management will help you to create a killer church website."
August 2, 2021
Does Your Church Have Clear Messaging?
Having a clear message is important to properly communicate your church's vision and mission. Especially in an increasingly online world, there are a few helpful steps that can be taken to ensure you get your message across to both church members and potential visitors.
July 27, 2021
5 Core Challenges for Church Admin and How to Solve Them
Making sense of the otherwise chaotic church administration universe is all but impossible, especially when you approach it preparedly and with the right set of tools. We've identified five core challenges church admin will face and five strategies for turning that chaos into order.
July 19, 2021
To Go Back or Stay Virtual: Scriptural Insights for Both
The past many months have introduced a barrage of new ideas and theological conversations in the Christian world. One topic: virtual church or in-person? This post addresses both (with scripture) to simply begin the conversation. How has your church approached this topic?
July 13, 2021
8 Ways to Run a Successful Midweek Church Event
Life gets busy for your church members, so carefully communicating your vision and reason for mid-week services is important. Some people may be tired from a long day at work, but most people desire connection throughout the week. With proper planning and execution, a mid-week service can become your church’s most exciting event.
July 12, 2021
8 Ways to Reach Gen Z With Technology
Now more than ever, technology runs the world. Gen Z is the first generation in history who can't remember a time without touch screens. Here are 8 effective ways for reaching Generation Z with technology.
July 5, 2021
How to Build (and Manage) a Community of Volunteers
Your church volunteers most likely have regular day jobs and plenty of personal responsibilities and obligations. Volunteering for your church shouldn’t feel like an extra “To Do” list item to check off. It should be a rewarding, fulfilling experience that brings people closer to Jesus and closer to others.
June 21, 2021
The Top 10 Problems in Church Management & How to Solve Them
Better church management → more effective ministry. Managing a church well is no small feat. However, church management can be done well–regardless of your church’s size, location, or financial profile.
June 14, 2021
6 Tips to Form a Virtual Bible Study That Works
Starting a virtual Bible study or considering it? Whether it's your first time or you're a virtual veteran, we have tips to make this your most successful group yet!
June 1, 2021
8 Ways to Build a Multigenerational Church Community with Technology
Only a multigenerational church can reflect the beauty of God’s character, by building a community where different generations can encourage one another, share life, build Christlike character, and advance the Kingdom of God–together.
May 31, 2021
The Do's and Don'ts of Effective Church Management
Managing a church well is not just about checking off boxes or using the right technology; it’s about building a community for God and for people.
May 24, 2021
4 Essential Ways to Incorporate Media into Your Ministry
Tithe.ly Media gives you thousands of images for FREE. Here are a few ways you can use them!
April 26, 2021
What Churches Need to Know Before Buying Land
Thinking of buying land for your church? Here’s a brief guide that will explain why you probably should—and what to look out for along the way!
April 22, 2021
6 Great Resources for Free Church Media in 2022
Looking for graphics and photos for your church community? Check out this list of some of our favorite sites!
April 15, 2021
4 Approaches for Cultivating Great Small Groups
Small groups are a great place for discipleship. Here are a few ideas to make your small groups strong!
April 8, 2021
4 Ways to Transform Easter Guests into Disciples
Here are a few tips to help newcomers feel welcome all year round.
April 1, 2021
Building Community in Your Church
Here are a few key ingredients to biblical community. Have you included them all in your church's programming?
March 11, 2021
God Is Still on the Move
Even in the midst of COVID-19 lockdowns, churches are using technology to reach the people they have been called to serve.
February 10, 2021
How to Involve Youth in the Life of Your Church
Wondering how you can get the youth in your church more involved? Here are a few simple tips to help!
February 1, 2021
9 Best Practices For Making Church Announcements | Tithe.ly
Wondering how to make the best church announcements? We'll explain 9 best practices & ideas for making the most of announcements. Find out here!
August 6, 2020
Church After Covid, Small Church Marketing, and the Perfect Sunday School Lesson
This week on Modern Church Leader, we continued the discussion on COVID and the 7 ways it will change the church. We also talked through the ways of preparing the perfect Sunday school lesson and marketing your small church.
June 12, 2020
13 Old Hymns Every Christian Should Know By Heart
Looking for old hymns? ✓ Here are the 13 most popular old Christian hymns of all time.
June 10, 2020
Are Your Church Members NOT Giving? Here Are 10 Reasons Why
Most people don’t tithe. Here are 10 reasons why.
April 10, 2020
Steps Every Church Can Take To Develop Female Leaders with Kadi Cole
This week on Tithe.ly TV, Dean and Frank talk with Kadi Cole about developing female leaders in the church.
March 20, 2019
How to Write a Sermon: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Looking for tips on How to Write a Better Sermon? Seasoned pastor? Young preacher? Here's a simple step-by-stepy guide on how to write a great sermon.
July 13, 2018
6 Ways You Can Increase the Number of Volunteers in Your Church
In many ways, volunteers are the fuel that runs your church.
September 26, 2017
3 Ways You Can Fight Discouragement in Ministry
September 14, 2017
3 Ways Your Church is Self-Destructing
September 12, 2017
Leadership
September 6, 2017
4 Practical Ways You Can Help Your Pastor Take a Break
July 27, 2017
4 Sermon Series That Will Engage & Challenge Millennials
Millennials are the largest living generation in the US. Their presence is not only changing the workplace and society, but it’s also influencing the church. Before too long, these changes will be the norm.
July 4, 2017
2 Sermons on Giving Your Church Must Hear
Talking about money is never easy. It hits close to home for most people.
June 13, 2017
What Your Church Does for Memorial Day Matters
by Wes Gay
May 23, 2017
How to Track Giving At Your Church
May 16, 2017
How the Church Can Respond to Trump Winning the 2016 US Presidential Election
10 Pastors and Leaders Share Their Thoughts
November 9, 2016

Up Next

Generosity
6 Ways You Can Lead Your Church to Give
Here are six of the most popular ways you can lead the people in your church to give. After reading through this list, take the time at the end to think through the best options for your church.
July 14, 2022
Why Storytelling Works in Church with Robert Carnes
If you're a leader who wants to learn how to use stories to build relationships, motivate audiences, and make an impact, this is a great chance to learn from an expert.
June 28, 2022
Faith
He Called Me 8 Years after He Left My Church
Over the years, I have no clue how many people have left my church…just dropped through the cracks. For years, I didn’t have a great plan to make sure they stayed connected and were discipled well. Most people I know from smaller churches can relate.In this blog post I share what I've learned.
June 23, 2022
The Role of a Pastor As a Shepherd with Tom Nelson
Listen in and discover what it means to be a good shepherd and how you can be more effective at leading your congregation to Jesus.
June 21, 2022
How Churches Spend, Why They Stagnate, and What They Do to Grow

This week on Modern Church Leader, we talked through the struggles churches are facing with spending money, making changes and digital limitations.

July 10, 2020

Show notes

This week on Modern Church Leader, we talked through the struggles churches are facing with spending money, making changes and digital limitations. We also hear from Tithe.ly CEO, Dean Sweetman, as he prepares us for Church Capital Campaigns. Lastly, be sure to check out our COO, Frank Barry’s interview with Seattle Church of Church’s Lead Pastor, Daren Overstreet.

How Churches Really Spend Their Money: 20 Fascinating Data Points [A New Study]

In this episode of Modern Church Leader, we dig deep to see how churches really spend their money. Check out these 20 Fascinating Data Points by Tithe.ly Content Strategist, Paul Maxwell.

Church Capital Campaigns: Are You Ready?

In  Modern Church Leader, Tithe.ly CEO Dean Sweetman walks us through church capital campaigns. Tune in if you are ready!

3 Things Keeping Your Church From Changing (And How to Fix Them)

In this episode,, Content Strategist, Paul Maxwell speaks into the 3 things keeping your church from changing... and how to fix them.

4 Digital Giving Myths That Are Crippling Your Church Growth

In this episode of Modern Church Leader, Tithe.ly Content Strategist, Paul Maxwell takes us through the 4 Digital Giving Myths that are Crippling Your Church Growth. Tune in for more from Modern Church Leader!

CHOP Zone & Church: How 2020 Will Change the Way Church Looks

This week on Modern Church Leader, Frank Barry talks with Darren Overstreet, Lead Pastor of the multi-campus Seattle Church of Christ. The two discuss some of the things that are affecting churches all over the world as we go through pandemics, protests, and a US election cycle ...


  • What might God be teaching us through these tough times?
  • The future of small groups & community
  • How to staff for the future?
  • Adjusting to Online Church Attendance
  • How financial giving plays a major role in the future?


Join us .. and share w/ a friend who you think should listen in!

Over to You

Never miss a show, subscribe via:

Subscribe for cutting edge tools and strategies for church leaders.

Is your church in financial trouble? Do you wish you had more resources to reach people for Christ?

‍Subscribe to Modern Church Leader to get daily tips on how to increase giving, remove the stress from managing your church, and grow your church with the latest digital tools.

Grow Your Church For Free With Tithe.ly

What is Tithe.ly?

Tithe.ly is the global leader in digital giving, church engagement, and church management software. Tithe.ly serves over 25,000 churches in 55 countries, and is trusted by churches and ministries such as Hillsong, North Coast Church, Rock Church, and Ravi Zacharias International Ministries.

video transcript

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