Making the Financial Presentation

Planning groups are strongly advised to build a financial presentation into the preaching programme. It is of particular significance to the fringe and indeed parts of the core and the congregation who have little idea of the costs of parish ministry. A visual presentation is also helpful for those who find figures difficult to understand when written down. If an LCD is not available the PowerPoint slides can be printed to acetate and used with an OHP. Local church culture will determine the style of financial presentation.

• Two PowerPoint presentations are available. Permission to use the GEMS presentation from the Diocese of Durham is gratefully acknowledged.
• The Heckler is suitable for all age worship but does not require children present. Millionaero requires two main adult participants but children are needed to be a very participative audience. Skilful editing of the questions would enable Millionaero to be done in church without children present.
• The financial presentation should come at or towards the end of a preaching series which has stressed the spiritual nature of giving and the resourcing of ministry and mission.
• Where the presentation takes up sermon time preface it with at least a little biblical reflection drawn from the theme for the day. Alternatively a presentation and a brief sermon might occupy two shorter teaching opportunities within the service.
• Ensure that the communication literature is distributed at or immediately after the presentation. Don't leave a gap.
• Keep the financial data broad and simple. The aim is not to communicate financial facts but to enable understanding of the need and guidance to know what is an appropriate response.
• The financial presentation involves lay people and makes a clear statement that the money is an issue that belongs to the entire church. Quality of communication is important, not expertise in finance. Don't assume that the treasurer makes the presentation.
• The use of personal testimony by an "ordinary" lay person can be powerful and can add significantly to the value of presentations.
• Always ensure a thorough and full rehearsal of the material prior to the Sunday Service - informality is enhanced by a really crisp presentation or sketch