Help Your Parish Bloom - A Spring Push for Recurring Giving. Resources & Tips.

Spring is in the air, and it’s not just the tulips that are ready to bloom. This season is the perfect time for parishes to freshen up their approach to giving and plant the seeds of recurring online offertory support. As parish life picks up after Lent and people begin planning their summer vacations, now is the moment to help your community set up consistent, meaningful giving that lasts all year.

Recurring online giving is one of the simplest and most effective ways parishioners can support your parish. It is reliable, convenient, and helps keep parish operations running smoothly even when folks are out of town. Think of it as the digital version of placing your envelope in the basket every Sunday, without needing to remember it each week. For the parish, this means steadier income and stronger financial planning. For parishioners, it is one less thing to worry about while still making a real impact.

Before encouraging parishioners to set up recurring gifts, it is worth giving your website a little spring cleaning. The best giving experiences start with a clean, welcoming, and mobile-friendly parish site. A clearly placed "Give" button in the top right corner and again in the footer helps ensure visitors can find it from anywhere on your site. A dedicated giving page that outlines all your donation options, such as online giving, IRA gifts, stock donations, and traditional envelopes, makes it easier for people to take action.

Once your digital front door is open and inviting, it is time to spread the word. Social media is a great tool for reminding people that giving online is easy and meaningful. A friendly post like, "Headed out for summer travel? Set up your recurring gift today so your parish support never takes a vacation" can go a long way. Videos and visuals also help reinforce the message and keep generosity top of mind.

And do not forget to say thank you. A quick note of appreciation or a small acknowledgment in the parish bulletin can help donors feel connected and valued. When someone takes the step to become a recurring giver, they are not just giving. They are making a commitment to your mission. Let them know it matters.

Here’s what you can do this May to encourage recurring online giving:

• Send an email to your parishioners asking them to set up their offertory giving to be online and recurring. It only takes a moment, and the impact is lasting.

• Include the benefits of recurring giving in your bulletin. Mention how it is easier for families, supports your ministries year-round, and helps your parish plan ahead with confidence.

• Post on Facebook a couple of times in May encouraging recurring gifts. Keep the tone friendly and mission-focused. Remind parishioners that even while they are away, their generosity can still be present.

Take a look at all the resources we’ve put together to help you promote recurring online giving in your parish!

Click to View The Resources

This small push in May can make a big difference in the months ahead. And you do not have to figure it all out alone. Resources are available to help, and our team is here to support you.

For more information or assistance, please contact Kim Montgomery or Mark Talcott in the Advancement Department:

Kim Montgomery: kim.montgomery@archbalt.org

Mark Talcott: mark.talcott@archbalt.org