Philanthrogenesis: Nurturing Thankful Hearts Toward Mission-Driven Giving
Philanthrogenesis—a term that may be new to some, yet its quintessence is deeply familiar. At its core, philanthrogenesis is the origin or spark of generosity—when a heart is moved to give and make a difference. It is the beginning of philanthropy, where thankfulness is turned into action. We repeatedly witness this spark in our work (please specify), where both church members and donors alike are inspired to support projects that advance the church’s mission. Just as a seed needs good soil to sprout and grow, so the spirit of generosity—nurtured by gratitude and purpose—can flourish into meaningful support that helps advance God’s kingdom and move His mission forward.
In the story of Solomon’s temple, we find a powerful example of how philanthrogenesis may work itself out. Although King David would not be the one to build the temple, he planted the seeds of generosity by sharing his vision, giving from his resources, and inviting the people to join him. “Who is willing to consecrate themselves to the Lord today?” he asked (1 Chronicles 29:5). The people responded with joy, and a spirit of generosity was ignited, enabling Solomon to complete the temple.
In that same spirit, our stewardship efforts today can foster this founding sense of generosity, directing resources toward the mission. Here is how we can intentionally foster philanthrogenesis in our projects while valuing and recognizing the contribution each member brings to the work:
Understanding the Need for Strategic Fundraising
Great projects building worship spaces, constructing community centers, or expanding educational facilities require more than just money; they demand a collective, mission-driven effort. David was a powerful example when he carefully planned for the temple of Solomon, setting aside resources and inviting the people to join him. He ignited philanthrogenesis in the people by making it clear that everyone’s gift mattered.
For us, strategic planning and effective communication are the keys to lighting that initial spark of generosity. One excellent example of this occurred several years ago when I was involved in a project to remodel a K–10 Adventist school. Despite limited resources, we conducted a transparent and mission-driven campaign, inviting members to do whatever they could financially or through volunteering. We reached our goal through systemic giving, targeted strategies, fundraising events, and participation of our invested membership. We successfully remodeled the school, which is now serving as a mission outreach hub. Leaders kept the spark alive by celebrating every contribution, regardless of size.
Creating a Vision, Communicating It Effectively, and Building Gratitude
David’s vision for the temple was a powerful one. He communicated its profound meaning to the people, inspiring a burning desire to provide. As Proverbs 29:18 says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish” (KJV). A well-articulated vision and appreciation for every gift strengthens philanthrogenesis by motivating people to act.
It is not only about casting the vision effectively; it’s also about genuinely saying “thank you.” Research from the University of Pennsylvania shows that expressions of gratitude can boost future giving by over 20%, with appreciated donors much more likely to give again (Add a reference). Similarly, not to be outdone, Penelope Burk’s work in Donor-Centered Fundraising reveals that a simple thank-you call to a new donor can increase future donations by as much as 39% (Add a reference).
When vision is anchored in what God wants to accomplish and combined with gratitude, it motivates and elevates giving and helps members connect their contributions to His ultimate mission. Regular expressions of gratitude—whether through personal notes, public acknowledgments, or follow-up reports—fan the flame of generosity and lead to sustained giving.
Implementing Inclusive Fundraising Strategies with Philanthrogenesis and Gratitude
David invited all to contribute to the temple, according to what God had given them, establishing one shared experience of generosity. In our world church today, several strategies can be used to enlist everyone to participate in giving:
Systematic Giving: Systematic giving—through tithes and regular offerings—is essential to the structure and sustainability of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church. It supports the global mission and ongoing operations. However, local projects often require additional, designated contributions. Projects such as building community centers, enhancing local ministries, or supporting outreach programs thrive when members give above and beyond their regular tithes and offerings.
To ensure the success of local initiatives, we encourage members to engage in special giving campaigns and designated contributions that supplement their systematic giving. This approach enables local congregations to dream big, plan strategically, and achieve impactful projects benefiting their communities. By fostering a spirit of generosity that goes beyond the foundational practices of tithing and regular offerings, we empower our churches to grow, innovate, and better serve their mission on a local scale.
Events to Raise Funds: Events that celebrate community and encourage contributions are powerful ways to initiate and nurture a culture of giving. David’s gathering of the people was an inspiring moment of collective generosity. Mission dinners, benefit concerts, or online campaigns in today’s context bring the community together. These events allow contributors to be recognized through tokens of appreciation or public acknowledgment. Such activities activate a spark of generosity that often evolves into long-term support.
Grant Writing: Working with organizations like ADRA and faith-based grant programs expands our resources and deepens our gratitude for these partnerships. Sharing the results of successful grants with church members keeps everyone connected with the mission and supports the importance of these collaborative efforts.
Major Donor Cultivation: Identifying and nurturing relationships with major donors begins with expressing genuine appreciation. Research suggests that personalized thank-you letters and personal recognition deepen relationships and encourage greater support over time. Ellen G. White reminds us, “Means will flow into the treasury; the Lord will lay burdens on hearts” (Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 448). Regular expressions of gratitude can reinforce that initial spark, fostering a strong sense of involvement and commitment to the mission.
Online Giving and Crowdfunding: Technology allows us to extend our reach through the philanthrogenesis of the world. Every online gift should be acknowledged, from the smallest to the most significant. Sending messages of gratitude using social media and sharing digital reports showing donations’ impact can help keep online donors engaged and connected to the mission.
Leveraging Present Gifts, Planned Gifts, and Blended Gifts with Gratitude
David’s preparation for the temple was not a short-term project but a legacy with eternal significance. His call to the people was clear: “Who is willing to consecrate themselves to the Lord today?” (1 Chronicles 29:5). Leading by example, David gave generously from his treasury and encouraged others to contribute in various ways. This call inspired both immediate and long-term contributions, creating a rich blend of offerings that supported the construction of what would later be known as Solomon’s temple.
In today’s context, there are parallels in how the church can leverage present gifts, planned gifts, and blended gifts to achieve its mission. Just as David’s invitation united various forms of support—from immediate offerings to long-term commitments—churches today can draw on a mix of contributions to build and sustain their mission.
The Role of Present Gifts: Present gifts enable the church to launch current projects and make immediate progress. These contributions empower the church to act promptly and address immediate needs like the initial resources David called for.
The Role of Planned Gifts: Planned gifts, such as bequests and trusts, mirror the deeper commitments made by David and the leaders who contributed beyond their current means. These gifts ensure a continued flow of resources into God’s work, providing stability and sustainability for future generations.
The Power of Blended Gifts: Blended gifts combine present and planned giving, reflecting how the collective and varied contributions during David’s time enabled the completion of the temple. By integrating immediate gifts with future commitments, churches can create a comprehensive financial strategy that meets current needs while securing long-term sustainability. This holistic approach helps mission projects get started and thrive for years to come.
Research supports this balanced approach. The Giving USA 2023 report highlights that significant support comes from a combination of immediate and planned giving, with donors who see the direct impact of their contributions being more inclined to make future commitments. Additionally, the National Philanthropic Trust reports that 43% of donors are inspired to make planned gifts after witnessing the immediate outcomes of their current contributions.
Ellen White emphasized that, “Many, instead of bringing their tithes to God, make bequests of their property … after their death” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 326). These planned gifts are vital for the long-term sustainability of the mission, while present gifts create the foundation upon which future support can build. By valuing both types of contributions, churches can foster a robust culture of giving that supports immediate action and secures lasting impact.
The story of David in preparing for Solomon’s temple reminds us that funding big projects is more than just a financial goal; it’s the journey of inspiring philanthrogenesis—a shared mission that starts with a thankful heart and each member being willing to give. Global total member involvement allows us to involve ourselves and every church member in the mission. As Ellen G. White said, “God’s work done in God's way will never lack God's supplies” (Counsels on Stewardship, p. 36).
God supplies the needs for His work in our prayerful plans and grateful hearts. We must not forget that philanthrogenesis is based on theophilogenesis—the love of God toward humanity that stirs a loving response within us. Such giving is based on the divine example given to us through God’s love for us. So says 1 John 4:19, “We love because He first loved us.” It is the greatest love that inspires generosity and links our mission work with a calling higher than man.
Now, following this spirit of humility, let us remind ourselves of what David said, among his other musings, as he beheld the liberality with which the people were giving: “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand” (1 Chronicles 29:14).
May we always recognize that the resources, abilities, skills, talents, strength, and generosity of our church members and friends are a blessing from God entrusted to us for His mission. Together, we build thankful hearts, inspire generosity, and build His kingdom to prepare a world for His soon return!
