Why Fundraising and Communications Must Work Together in Christian Organisations

As a consultant working with charities and a former senior executive in the not-for-profit sector, one of the most common challenges I encounter is the dreaded ‘silo working’!  And one of the most damaging divides I see repeatedly is between fundraising and communications teams.

There are many reasons why fundraisers and communicators often struggle to align. One key issue is the lingering belief among some communicators that talking about money is somehow less spiritual or noble than other forms of engagement, such mobilising support for advocacy calls. When I first transitioned from the news media into charity communications I remember feeling uncomfortable focusing on financial appeals, preferring to tell broader, mission-driven stories. However, this disconnect, while common, can significantly hinder Christian charities from fulfilling their mission. More importantly, it is not a biblical stance.

Fundraising in the Bible: A Model of Mission and Generosity

The Bible provides clear examples of fundraising as an essential part of ministry. The apostle Paul frequently wrote about financial giving and actively encouraged Christian communities to support one another.

In 2 Corinthians 8-9, Paul urges the Corinthian church to give generously to help struggling believers in Jerusalem. He presents giving as an opportunity for spiritual growth, stating: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). His emphasis on voluntary, joyful generosity reinforces that giving is an act of faith, not just obligation.

Similarly, in Philippians 4:15-18, Paul acknowledges and thanks the church in Philippi for their financial support, describing their generosity as “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God”. He does not see fundraising as merely securing resources but as deepening spiritual relationships and furthering God’s work.

Giving as Discipleship: Insights from the Stewardship Report

The 2025 Stewardship Generosity Report highlights how giving remains a deeply spiritual act among Christians today. Key findings include:

• Committed Christians give nearly five times the UK monthly giving average.
• Those most engaged in their faith experience the most joy from their giving.
• 60% of committed Christians give to Christian causes.
• 90% of regular churchgoers give to their churches.

This data underscores an essential truth: fostering generosity is not just about fundraising—it’s about discipleship. If giving is an expression of faith, then fundraising should be framed as an opportunity for believers to grow spiritually. And this is where communications professionals play a crucial role in telling the bigger story of generosity.

God as the Ultimate Communicator

The divide between fundraising and communications does not stem solely, however, from communicators’ reluctance to discuss money. I have also seen fundraisers underestimate the power of communications in engaging donors. But from Genesis to Revelation, the Bible reveals God as a communicator. He speaks creation into being (Genesis 1), calls His people into relationship (Exodus 3), sends prophets to proclaim His Word, and ultimately communicates through Jesus, “the Word made flesh” (John 1:14).

In the New Testament, we also see how effective communication was crucial to the early Church. Paul’s letters, for example, were not just theological teachings—they were fundraising appeals, encouraging generosity among believers (2 Corinthians 8-9). Paul understood that financial support was not merely a necessity but a spiritual act of partnership in the gospel. His approach seamlessly integrated theology, relationship-building, calls to prayer, and the invitation to give.

Bridging the Divide: A Call to Collaboration

So, just as Paul wove fundraising and communication seamlessly into his ministry, Christian organisations today must do the same. By telling compelling stories, framing giving as a spiritual act, and fostering long-term relationships, charities can inspire believers to experience the deep joy of generosity.

Fundraising and communications are not separate functions; they are interdependent and essential for enabling generosity in the Church. When these teams work together, they do more than just secure financial support—they disciple believers and sharing in His Kingdom work.

Kate Nicholas is an award-winning Christian author, speaker and strategy/ communications consultant with Action Planning. Find out more about her books, TV show and online courses at https://www.katenicholas.co.uk