Ashley Hale, one of America's fore most authorities on philanthropy, speaks to church members, leaders, and clergy on the subject of giving. Hale reminds us that, although giving emerges from our spiritual sense, the church has lost ground to secular causes. Why? Because churches depend entirely on those spiritual origins to carry out their giving programs. In the meantime other causes have capitalized on the latent spirit-inspired desire to give, added some up-to-date techniques, and surpassed the church.
Hale says that American churches are "spinning around wanting to go for ward but actually going nowhere." The historic role of churches—to give for the benefit of others is no longer the case. He says churches preach generosity but do not model it. "The financial needs of the church take first place," while they preach the opposite. Churches need to be examples of giving. "To achieve this they need radically improved attitudes toward and methods of fund raising."
The author outlines the steps required for success. He tells us that the spiritual base for giving has unlimited possibilities when aided by proven methods and competent volunteers.
According to Hale, churches need to stop begging and develop a quality partnership between clergy and member leaders. They must speak to people's interests and concerns, not to the church's needs. By emphasizing the positive, members come to understand that giving within the church is both spiritual and financial. Hale talks about "happy" money and "sad" money. He reviews the wonderful world of big gifts. The book's 47 chapters include illustrations that capture the attention.
If your church needs to reaffirm its spiritual role and you recognize the value of a positive attitude toward giving, then this book is for you. Hale writes in a concise, well-organized style for church leaders who want to carry their congregations to new levels of service.
The final chapter lists "The 11 Cardinal Points," the eleventh being to "teach the gospel of good giving." Hale urges us to make giving a part of the good news; the giver really is the principal beneficiary. The last chapter alone is worth the investment.
