Catholic Fundraising as Mission: Best Practices for 2025

Inspired by the best practices of innovative Catholic ministries

“Fundraising is proclaiming what we believe in such a way that we offer other people an opportunity to participate with us in our vision and mission.” — Henri Nouwen

Across the Catholic landscape, forward-thinking parishes and ministries are rediscovering something vital: the link between liturgy, communication, and stewardship. These best-in-class communities treat giving not as an obligation, but as an extension of discipleship—a spiritual act grounded in rhythm, relationship, and reverence.

Just as the Mass is ordered with intention—from welcome to Word to Eucharist to sending—so too should our development strategies reflect that sacred structure.

A Liturgical Model for Catholic Engagement

• Welcome with purpose: Start every donor journey with warmth and gratitude
• Tell sacred stories: Share testimonies, milestones, and ministry impact
• Invite sacrificially: Present giving as a meaningful way to participate in the mission
• Send forth: Re-engage and thank supporters throughout the year
• Align to the Church year: Build your communications calendar around Advent, Lent, Easter, and Ordinary Time

Must-Dos for Every Charity

1. Make Giving Easy & Intentional

• Encourage recurring giving as a spiritual discipline
• Use SmartLinks, SmartGive, and SmartQR for fast, personalized donations

2. Make Gratitude a Culture, Not a Checkbox

• Automate thank-yous within 24 hours
• Invite prayer intentions and spiritual feedback
• Build donor relationships through spiritual storytelling

Two Calls to Action

1. Ask Yourself:

Are you using the right tools to simplify giving, personalize messaging, and thank donors meaningfully? If not, can your current systems support this? If they can, let’s make it happen. If they can’t—let’s talk about what’s possible.

2. Reach Out for Help:

If you’d like support or a walkthrough of best-in-class practices and SmartTools that Catholic leaders are using today, email implementation@givecentral.org. We’ll help you explore how to work with your current systems—or how to take your first step toward something better.

“Fundraising isn’t about asking for money. It’s about inviting someone to join in the mission of Christ.”

This Pentecost and beyond, let’s renew our mission through clarity, connection, and courageous stewardship.

Vish Vass

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Last modified: June 16, 2025