Contagious Generosity, Vol. 1

What does it look like when pastors cultivate a culture of generosity in the church by actively teaching and mentoring people in the spiritual act of giving? It’s generosity that’s contagious. A growing number of leaders are beginning to discover that there are key factors that make some churches thrive with abundant resources while others struggle with shrinking budgets. Jim Sheppard and Chris Willard have spent years consulting with church leaders across a broad spectrum of church settings and have gathered their observations into this resource, part of the Leadership Network Innovations Series. Contagious Generosity highlights the best practices gleaned from real-life church leadership situations and shows how church leaders can effectively cultivate a culture of generous giving in the local church. It explains why some churches are experiencing unexplainable ministry growth and unprecedented church funding … even in the midst of tough economic times.

Chris Willard has spent decades in ministry leadership and is a trusted voice on generosity and stewardship. As cofounder and CEO of Elevate Group, he helps churches and ministries across North America and Europe grow in generosity and fully fund their mission. A frequent speaker, Chris shares practical strategy and wisdom at conferences and retreats nationwide. He lives in Orlando with his wife, Susan, and is the father of three adult children. Learn more at www.ChrisWillard.me.

Jim Sheppard is CEO and principal of Generis, a consulting firm committed to developing and accelerating generosity for churches and Christian ministry organizations. He is an avid student of generosity and is passionate about helping church people become more generous. Since 1992, his work with churches and ministry organizations has produced more than $950 million in funding for Kingdom-related projects. He lives in the Atlanta area with his wife, Nancy, and their two grown daughters. www.JimSheppard.net