An offering talk is a simple, intentional statement of less than 60 seconds that immediately proceeds the offertory prayer and receiving the offering.

Wise pastors plan their preaching weeks in advance. Wise worship leaders plan their worship services in advance. Wise church leaders plan offering talks in advance. Offering talk advance planning makes maximum advantage of the moment of maximum attention.

Consider six types of offering talks.

Be Thankful. Regularly say thank you to your congregation for their willingness to support your church and its mission through giving. Example: “You work hard to earn the income to support your family. Thank you for sharing a portion of that income to support God’s work through our church family as well. Our church works hard to be a good steward of all you give.”
Be Informational. You can supplement your announcements and new initiatives the pastor might include in his sermon with offering talks. Example: “Isn’t it exciting to know that our church is currently preparing to send our first international mission team in over a decade? It’s wonderful to know that a portion of your tithes support missions through our church—locally, nationally, and internationally—every week.”
Be Missional. At least once a month use an offering talk to highlight your guiding principles—mission, vision, or values. Example: “At our church we are growing Christ followers. Everything we do is focused on winning and growing followers of Jesus. We are disciples who seek to make disciples. When you give, you enable us to make Christ followers.”
Be Personal. People give to causes that are meaningful to them. Occasionally tell stories that convey the impact of your church ministries. Example: “Your giving makes a difference. Last week our teenagers served in a local ministry project. Listen to what one of them wrote afterwards…”
Be Testimonial. If you want to take stories of personal meaning to the next level, have the person sharing the offering talk tell their own story of life impact. Example: “I’m Joe. As you prepare to give today and I want to take a minute to tell you what God has done for me as result of your giving. Our ministry of…”
Be Visual. Don’t just tell people, when you can—with any of the above—show them photos or videos of people, projects, and progress you are making. Example: “Last week our church held its annual VBS. As we consider giving today, let’s take a minute to watch a video of all that your ministry service and generous giving made possible.”

An offering talk maximizes that moment of maximum attention for maximum impact. If you want to increase generosity in your church, plan an intentional offering talk every time you take up an offering.

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