Step Four:
Prepare the Literature
Making the Ask
Ask! What shall I give you?
1 Kings 3:5
Ask and it will be given to you.
Matthew 7:7
Please see our GDPR guidance at the bottom of this page
We confidently ask God for our needs. Why hesitate to ask God’s people for the needs of God’s church?
Those needs may be very obvious but asking for the obvious is important.
We’re not begging. We’re encouraging church members to abundantly resource our mission and ministry - and to grow in generous discipleship.
Check out our blog and scroll down for UK GDPR and Code of Fundraising Practice guidance.
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The brochure is the unifying, multi purpose element of the literature, outlining financial needs, ministry goals and guidance on making a response.
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The clergy or leader letter makes a personal ask, inviting church members to respond to a financial challenge or opportunity and to journey into generous discipleship. Read more
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The response form is the vehicle by which the intentions are translated into action, giving pledges are indicated and requests for further information made. Read more
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Making it easier for the next generation to activate their generosity, see how digital resources can enhance your ask and response.
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+Social Media
Preparing for a Response
Stewardship, as Keith Tondeur notes, is not about raising money but about raising people in the likeness of Jesus.
Each response is never simply a financial transaction. It's a small step in our personal transformation, in our generous discipleship. We don't just want to secure the gift but to nurture the giver on our shared journey of generosity.
The heart of our follow-up to responses is a personal touch and warm appreciation, underwritten by decent administration. To do this well, you will need to prepare in advance some key pieces of literature. Read our blog
Please see our GDPR guidance at the bottom of this page
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Upon receiving a church member's response form, a letter must be sent expressing warm appreciation of their response. We say thanks for the gift and for the giver.
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It’s just the way it is. We forget stuff. Our response form sits behind the clock on the mantelpiece. A reminder letter is just that. A gentle reminder to act; in Paul’s words to ‘complete the task’ (2 Cor 8:11).
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Some response forms will request information, for example joining the Parish Giving Scheme or leaving a legacy. Generic leaflets and customisable templates are available.
The resources on this page must be used in accordance with your own GDPR Privacy Policy. For guidance on creating a differentiated mailing list in line with current UK GDPR guidelines, click the button below.
GDPR
Please note: the Data (Use and Access) Act became UK law in June 2025. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is preparing new guidance. Our guidance here is neither definitive or authoritative. It is cautious and will be updated when new ICO guidance is published.
Code of Fundraising Practice
The Code of Fundraising practice is the best advice for remaining compliant with the Charity Commision. It is important to use this code to inform how you communicate with your church about financial giving.
Gather the Data
Build the Case
Design the Programme
Prepare the Literature
More Resources