Prepare the Literature:
Making the Ask
Making the Ask:
The literature needs unhurried and careful preparation with attention to the detail and to the distribution lists.
It is in the differentiated letters, the common brochure and the response forms that we communicate financial facts, the ministry that the money makes possible and, above all, we ask people to make their response.
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For some of our resources we use Canva.com, a simple and easy design website, to create and share our templates for the prepared literature. A free account is available to every charitable organisation. If you don’t have an account with Canva but wish to use our materials, follow the instructions provided by the Church of England Digital Labs to apply for a free account.
Brochure
We have three brochure designs currently available. Choose one of the templates below to edit. The brochure goes to all church members so it needs a broad appeal. Add pictures and details of your ministry and mission to bring your message to life.
The templates below are created in Canva.
Letter
Letters are incredibly personal and must be written with care by the leadership of the church, and this is where differentiation is important.
The templates below are formatted in Microsoft Word.
Response Form
There is a different response form for the Leader, Planned, and Occasional givers. You can use the corresponding response form for each differentiated grouping.
The templates below are created in Canva.
Digital Resources
Social Media
Churches have a large community reach through social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). See the templates below for graphics you can post on your social media to promote your stewardship programme.
Online Giving
You may wish to give your members the option respond online. It is essential that you have a link to your giving platform on your church website and A Church Near You page. This could be;
a link to your Parish Giving Scheme page
a link to give via SumUp or GiveALittle
a link to a JustGiving page with a target amount
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How do I set up Online Giving?
If you do not have this set up and would like guidance for choosing the best platform for you, see parishbuying.org.uk for Church of England & Wales approved and negotiated deals.
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I do not belong to the CofE
Take a look at Stewardship UK Giving accounts. For more deals and recommended charity sector resources, visit CharityDigital.org.uk.
Next, head to Prepare for Response
There, you will find resources for thanking, reminding and informing people of further information.
Gather the Data
Build the Case
Design the Programme
Prepare the Literature
More Resources