Historically, a recession wracks the general economy for a full year before its most severe effects reach the local church. That’s because faithful tithers aren’t willing to stop giving when their income falls. By now, however, with nearly a 10% unemployment rate, even the strongest church budget is likely feeling the pinch of reduced giving.
While some are predicting the recession is near its end, staying in the black is still a challenge. Now, more than ever, a risk-management mind-set can help you keep your ministry on course.
The risk-management mind-set
Adopting a risk-management approach to your ministry could mean changing the way you prepare for and respond to risk. Instead of responding to risks as they come, you anticipate them and implement programs and procedures that prevent unnecessary losses.
Because of its focus on loss prevention, a risk-management mind-set often appears to focus only on the negative. But that’s not entirely true. A risk-management mind-set can help you weather the recession and stay on track with your ministry goals.
Protect your people
When the budget shrinks, churches, like businesses, often have to cut staff and reduce spending. Budget cuts can create stress. They can also lead to changed work assignments. And when staff members take on responsibilities for which they’re not trained or try to do too many things at once, workers can be hurt. Or worse, they can become careless, putting themselves and others at risk.
Additionally, church members who have lost their jobs may need encouragement at a time when your staff is too busy to be able to minister to them. Consider allowing members to volunteer at the church. They can keep their skills honed while looking for new employment. And while you work with them, you can find opportunities to talk and encourage them.
Unfortunately, volunteers can add risk. Properly train them for the jobs you are asking them to perform.
Maintain your property
Buildings and equipment don’t stop aging because of the recession. Take care of your buildings and property, and perform regular maintenance. Fixing small problems often prevents expensive repairs.
Keep looking forward
Your future will be determined by how you respond to the recession. If you stop planning for the future, when the recession ends, you’ll flounder without a mission goal. Set your course now, so when your budget recovers, you’re ready.
Renew your calling
When times get rough, the temptation is to hunker down and become inwardly focused. But look around. Now could be a good time to renew your calling to minister to the people in and around your church. Continue to minister to the community. Provide programs that will help people develop job skills and strengthen their financial skills.
Risk management is both a mind-set and a business initiative. Many property and casualty insurance companies offer help with the business aspect, so ask your insurance agent if your carrier provides this service.
To learn more about how a risk-management mind-set could protect your ministry, contact the GuideStone Property and Casualty Program at 1-877-455-GSPC (1-877-455-4772).