What's the campaign objective?

 

I love the challenge, the experiences and the energy of a capital campaign. It's taken me 15 years and more than four campaign seasons, but I'm not crossing my arms or justifying my actions to run the opposite direction. Sure, I spent some time on that end of the spectrum. I'll admit it. Now, though, I'm on the other end... out in front, championing the vision.

But, even with my new perspective, I empathize with the emotions and defenses people have when it comes to this journey. It feels like one more demand in a life where they already feel stretched. It feels like one more person is asking for a piece... a handout. It feels like the church is all about my money.

That's where our job comes in as church leaders.

• First, to celebrate someone's walk with Christ no matter what that might look like. Even if they are at the beginning and have simply turned the direction of their feet...but not yet begun to move forward. That's worth celebrating! They have turned around and are facing the right direction. [Like how? Here's something we did.]
• Next, is to affirm their emotions. Acknowledge them, don't argue with them. Don't shrink back or defend the church. Respectfully talk about the tough questions. Admit, you've had them yourself. You're lying if you don't. Come on... admit it. [Like how? Here's something we did.]
• Finally, tailor all your communications church-wide to remind people about the power of a changed life. Talk about who we are, what our future looks like and why we are all about reaching and helping people. Because people matter to God. The priority of your communications should be structured to first capture people's heart for the vision. Then, help them keep taking steps. Ultimately, they get to a place where they want to engage their energy, intellect, time and finally their money to see the vision become a reality. They get a front row seat and have a part in those changed lives. [Like how? Here's something we did.]

This campaign is not about money. It's about a spiritual journey we're going on as a church. It's about thousands of changed lives. Money is not the goal. It is the fruit of a changed life and a shared vision.

Comments

[Steve Lavey]

Kem --

I agree with you about the importance of vision and stories of changed lives. We had an awesome campaign called IMAGINE MORE about a year ago and people responded to what God is doing in the heart of Chicago through Park Community Church