Church Giving Drops Even as Charitable Giving Increases

Bob Perry, Churchnet Congregation Health Team Leader

Ethics Daily ran my latest article today, which is titled "Church Giving Drops Even as Charitable Giving Increases." The piece covers a study that offers troubling news for churches and denominations as such groups are receiving a smaller share of charitable contributions. Although the report offers declining church attendance as the reason, David Washburn of the Virginia Baptist Mission Board and Bob Perry of Churchnet both suggested additional reasons. In particular, they noted that those in younger generations tend to give more to cause-driven charities - even faith-based ones - instead of just supporting churches and denominational institutions. As Perry explained:

"Much church giving in past generations was based on funds that were channeled through denominational-directed ministries. With the decline in loyalty to denominations, more funds, especially from younger givers, are going to non-denominational causes that are frequently involved in direct services to needy communities within the U.S. and around the world."

Read the full article here.