How Do We Say Thank You?

I have an Investment Advisor who never forgets a birthday, anniversary or special occasion.  I began to think about all the special things she does and I realized that we, in the church, often do not appreciate our givers like that. Many givers would say that they don’t need a thank you, but bottom line is that everyone appreciates a thank you once in a while.

We should acknowledge first time givers. When someone gives for the first time, they are acknowledging that they are committed and want to be part of the congregation.  A thank you note is all that is required. Asking for a giving commitment is not a good idea, but a simple thank you card is a good idea.

Acknowledging special gifts is also a good idea.  The amount is not the issue but just the fact that they gave to a special need is important.  If it is a large gift, directed at a specific need, it is a good idea to make the thank you a one-on-one discussion or encounter.

In neither the first-time-thank-you or special-gift-thank-you is it necessary to discuss amount or even to know the amount. People are often sensitive about the amount, but a simple thank you or thank you card is always appreciated.