“It was this beneficial, grace-filled program,” explains Rev. Mary Weaver describing her experience at the Making Money Count workshop sponsored by the Clergy & Church Financial Ministry (C2FM).  Not only was it “a great learning opportunity,” but it was a starting point for taking this same information “out to our ministry in the churches.”

Started just one year ago with an initial grant to the Foundation from the Lilly Endowment, C2FM is gaining momentum and gift support from individuals and congregations.  “The services include education and coaching, as well as direct aid for clergy facing acute financial challenges,” states Chris Bouchard, C2FM director.  “It’s all about helping clergy be better at their craft.”

The program also assists pastors in starting financial ministries within their respective congregations, including the popular Financial Peace University by Dave Ramsey.  “We actually have some unchurched people who had a need and… have become part of the class,” states Rev. David Stewart.  “When you begin to have those conversations, people open their hearts up and… God can do something amazing.” 

Bouchard explains that many pastors suffer in silence as they struggle with the financial management of a church, to counsel others about money matters or, sometimes, to navigate their own personal burdens.  The result is less effective ministry, personal stress and shame, and professional burn-out. 

Progress to date:

  • More than 80 clergy and spouses have attended workshops and seminars
  • 20 individual clergypersons received coaching totaling more than 40 hours of direct contact
  • Over $31,400 distributed in direct financial assistance to clergy

“This program is more than a job to me.  It is a ministry,” states Bouchard.  “I’ve seen lives dramatically changed through this program.”

To view a brief video overview of the program, visit:  https://mumf.org/c2fm/

To make a gift in support of the program and help “Meet the Match”, visit: https://mumf.org/c2fm/c2fm-meet-the-match/  Each gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the Lilly Endowment.  Free C2FM giving envelopes and brochures can be used for a special offering Sunday or newsletter insert for your congregation.  Call the Foundation at 800-332-8238 to place an order.