Jackie Angel, a worship leader, speaker, and author, joined Pushpay at NEC to discuss the concept of living an integrated life. Jackie shared personal insights from her journey of faith, family, and finding wholeness, speaking to the importance of integrating spirituality and psychology. Along with her husband, Bobby, Jackie has committed to building a Christ-centered family and life, and she shared how that focus guides everything they do.

Understanding Human Formation

Jackie began by talking about her passion for human formation, something she and Bobby, who works with CatholicPsych, have embraced in their family and ministry. They’ve worked to integrate spiritual, pastoral, and human formation, grounded in a view of the human person inspired by Pope John Paul II’s Theology of the Body.

“Living an integrated life means letting Jesus into the deepest parts of our hearts,” Jackie shared. She emphasized that true healing requires more than just spiritual practices; it involves recognizing our emotional and psychological needs as well.

Vulnerability plays a key role in this process. Jackie compared it to gold being refined, explaining how struggles and suffering bring impurities to the surface, allowing God to purify us over time. Her message was clear: being honest with ourselves and God about our wounds is the path to deeper healing.

Blending Psychology and Faith

One key point Jackie made was the importance of blending psychology with faith for holistic healing. She referenced Dr. Greg Bottaro, a Catholic psychologist, who combines psychology with Catholic teachings on the human person. While modern psychology sometimes veers away from Catholic understanding, Jackie explained, there are approaches like attachment theory and internal family systems that align well with how God created us.

She also reflected on how the Catholic Church’s stance on mental health has shifted. Whereas past generations were often told to “pray it away,” there’s now more recognition that both spiritual and mental health need attention. Vulnerability, far from being a weakness, can lead to a deeper connection with God.

Building a Christ-Centered Family

Jackie and Bobby are now raising their four children in Dallas, Texas, where they homeschool and focus on cultivating a Christ-centered home. Jackie spoke about how they work to keep faith at the center of family life, whether through daily prayer, meaningful conversations, or enjoying the simple moments together.

One of the themes she touched on was the importance of shared faith in their marriage. While Bobby is her best friend and partner, Jackie noted that her heart still longs for something only God can fill. “Even when you’re married to your best friend, there’s still that ache for something more, and that’s Jesus,” she said with a smile.

Living as the Hands and Feet of Christ

Jackie reminded the audience that after receiving the Eucharist, we become the body of Christ in the world. She encouraged everyone to live out their faith wherever they go—whether that’s with friends, at work, or even in line at the grocery store.

Jackie shared some personal stories of how she evangelizes in everyday moments, like talking to Uber drivers or hospital nurses. These encounters, she said, are opportunities to share Christ’s love in a way that resonates with each person.

“We are all needed in the body of Christ,” Jackie explained. “I can’t do what you can do, but together we’re building up the Kingdom.”

Closing Reflections on Faith

Jackie ended the conversation with a reflection on integrating faith into daily life. She spoke about the power of prayer and fasting, especially when praying for loved ones who have drifted from the faith.

“Prayer is powerful,” she said. “Sometimes fasting is that extra step that makes the difference.” Her final message to the audience was one of joy and hope, echoing Mother Teresa’s words: “Joy is the net of love by which we catch souls.”

Staying Connected with Jackie Angel

To follow along with Jackie’s journey, you can find her on Instagram at @JackieFrancois, where she shares updates about her faith, family, and ministry. She also co-hosts the Conversations with Jackie and Bobby podcast, where they interview guests with remarkable stories of faith and miracles.

Catholic thought leader and media personality Katie Prejean McGrady shared her thoughts on a topic that resonates with many families today: managing technology in the home. Katie, who is known for her work on Sirius XM’s Catholic Channel and her insightful commentary on faith and culture, offered practical advice and personal anecdotes about how to balance technology with family life.

The Challenge of Technology in Family Life

Gerardo opened the conversation with a fun anecdote about how Katie once predicted his marriage—a light-hearted story that highlighted Katie’s knack for insight and connection. This set the stage for a discussion on a more serious topic: the role of technology in the family. Gerardo, a new father, expressed his concerns about how his young son is already drawn to screens, a worry shared by many parents today.

Katie acknowledged the reality that screens are everywhere—on our wrists, in our pockets, and all around us. As a mother of two, she understands the challenges parents face in managing screen time for their children. “Screens are part of our lives,” she said, “but as Catholics, we need to shape the culture to make it healthy and safe for our children.”

Practical Tips for Managing Screen Time

Katie offered several practical strategies for managing screen time in the family. One approach she and her husband have adopted is the use of a device called a “brick,” which disables social media apps during specific times, such as dinner and family time in the evening. This helps them be fully present to their children without the distraction of phones or tablets.

Katie also emphasized the importance of setting positive boundaries rather than simply restricting screen time. For example, in her household, screen time is earned through positive actions, like completing chores or reading books. This approach helps children see screen time as a reward rather than a right and encourages them to engage in other activities first.

One memorable moment in the discussion was when Katie shared a personal story about her daughter, Rose, who had to physically push Katie’s phone out of the way to get her attention. This served as a wake-up call for Katie, leading her to adopt more intentional habits around technology use.

Addressing the Influence of Peers and School

An audience member asked Katie about the challenges of dealing with peer pressure and the influence of technology in schools, particularly in a public school setting where many students have personal devices. Katie acknowledged the difficulty of this situation and suggested a community approach, such as the “wait till 8th” pledge that some parents in her community have adopted, agreeing to delay giving their children smartphones until they reach eighth grade.

Katie also stressed the importance of substituting screen time with better, more engaging activities. For her family, building Legos together has become a favorite analog activity that requires focus and creativity—qualities that screens often diminish.

The Role of Technology in Evangelization

The conversation also touched on the role of digital media in the Church’s mission of evangelization. Katie noted that while screens can be a source of distraction, they also offer powerful tools for sharing the gospel. She highlighted the importance of parishes embracing their unique identities and using digital media to reach people in creative ways.

Katie shared an example from the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when many parishes began live-streaming Masses. She recalled a conversation with her sister, who lamented the lack of creativity in many of these streams. This experience underscored the need for the Church to not only adopt technology but to use it in ways that truly engage and inspire the faithful.

The Example of Blessed Carlo Acutis

Gerardo asked Katie to share her thoughts on Blessed Carlo Acutis, the young Italian who has become a patron of the digital age. Katie spoke passionately about Carlo’s integrity, both online and in life. When investigators examined Carlo’s digital footprint after his death, they found nothing incriminating—no evidence of him engaging in harmful online behavior. This, Katie noted, is a powerful example for young people today.

Carlo’s life demonstrates that the internet, when used properly, can be a tool for good. He created a website documenting Eucharistic miracles, combining his love for technology with his deep faith. Katie emphasized that Carlo’s example shows that it’s possible to live with integrity online and use technology to draw people closer to God.

Final Thoughts and Takeaways

As the session drew to a close, Katie offered a few more insights on how families can balance technology with faith. She encouraged parents to lead by example, setting clear boundaries for technology use while also showing their children how to use it positively. Katie also reminded the audience that technology, when used wisely, can be a powerful tool for evangelization and building community.

For those looking to follow Katie’s work, she mentioned several upcoming events and opportunities to connect, including book signings and live podcast recordings at the National Eucharistic Congress.

Katie’s message was clear: while technology is an inevitable part of modern life, it doesn’t have to dominate our lives. With intentionality, discipline, and a focus on faith, families can navigate the digital age in a way that enriches their lives and brings them closer to God.

David Calavita, co-founder of the creative agency Seen and Unseen, joined Gerardo for an engaging discussion on the intersection of branding, marketing, and the Church’s mission of evangelization. With a background in youth ministry and creative direction, David shared his insights on how the Church can better communicate its message and connect with people in an increasingly competitive and media-saturated world.

The Importance of Branding in the Church

The conversation began with a humorous story about David’s past work on a logo that Gerardo, unaware of its origin, had criticized as outdated and unattractive. This story set the stage for a deeper exploration of why branding matters in the Church. David emphasized that branding isn’t just about logos or aesthetics—it’s about how people experience and perceive the Church.

“A brand is not what you say you are; it’s what others say you are,” David explained. This perspective challenges the Church to consider not just how it presents itself, but how that presentation is received and internalized by the community. The Church, he argued, holds the most valuable message in the world—the gospel of Jesus Christ. Therefore, it’s essential that the Church’s branding and marketing efforts effectively communicate this message and connect with people on a deep, meaningful level.

Branding as Evangelization

David drew a parallel between branding and evangelization, suggesting that what the secular world calls marketing, the Church should view as evangelization. He quoted a marketing expert, Seth Godin, who said, “The job of marketing is to be worth connecting with.” For the Church, this means ensuring that its message is communicated in a way that is not only clear and compelling but also deeply resonant with those who encounter it.

“Teens aren’t going to give you their attention for free—you have to earn it,” David noted, reflecting on his years in youth ministry. This truth applies broadly across all age groups in the Church. If the Church fails to present itself in a way that is engaging and relevant, people will simply move on, missing out on the profound spiritual connections the Church offers.

The Role of Branding in the Eucharistic Revival

Gerardo and David also discussed the ongoing National Eucharistic Revival and the role branding plays in this movement. David praised the NEC’s efforts to create a cohesive and impactful experience, citing the recent pilgrimages as an example. These events were not only powerful spiritual experiences but also served as effective branding efforts, drawing attention and sparking conversations across the country.

“When 6,000 people gather in San Francisco under the name of Jesus, it’s not just great for the people there—it makes everyone in the state start to ask questions,” David said. This kind of public witness, he argued, is a form of branding that can shift perceptions and invite deeper engagement with the Church.

Practical Steps for Improving Church Branding

When asked how parishes can improve their branding, David emphasized the importance of starting with an honest evaluation. He suggested that parishes bring in an outsider—someone who isn’t part of the community—to provide an objective assessment. “It’s hard to see the flaws when you’re on the inside,” he explained. This external perspective can help identify areas where the parish’s messaging and branding might be falling short.

David also warned against simply copying what works for other parishes. “You’re not St. Tim’s,” he said. “Your parish has a unique identity, and your branding should reflect that.” Understanding this identity—who you are as a parish and what you uniquely offer—is crucial to developing an effective branding strategy.

Branding as a Relational Process

David further elaborated on the relational aspect of branding, comparing it to how we communicate differently with different people in our lives. Just as we speak differently to a spouse, a sister, or a daughter, the Church needs to tailor its messaging to connect with different audiences in meaningful ways.

“Once you know who you are, you know what you have to offer,” David explained. “And then you can figure out how to communicate that to the people you’re trying to reach.” This relational approach ensures that the Church’s branding isn’t just about presenting information but about creating authentic connections that draw people closer to Christ.

The Central Role of Prayer in Branding

In response to a question about the role of prayer in branding, David emphasized that prayer is foundational. “Prayer is central because it’s about asking the Holy Spirit to guide us,” he said. The process of branding and communication in the Church should be rooted in a deep understanding of the Church’s mission and identity, guided by the Holy Spirit.

David reminded the audience of the story of Pentecost, where the Holy Spirit empowered the disciples to communicate in ways that were not native to them. “The Holy Spirit gave them the power to be the sender, changed the message in a way the receiver could hear it, and the Church grew by 3,000 people,” he said. This story serves as a model for how the Church can approach branding—with prayerful discernment and a reliance on the Holy Spirit to guide its efforts.

Conclusion

As the session drew to a close, David left the audience with a powerful reminder: “Branding is not who we say we are; it’s what someone else says we are based on their experience with us.” For the Church, this means every interaction, every piece of communication, and every decision should be made with intentionality, ensuring that the message of the gospel is communicated clearly, beautifully, and effectively.

By embracing the tools of branding and marketing as forms of evangelization, the Church can better fulfill its mission of drawing people into a deeper relationship with Christ. Whether through honest evaluations, creative storytelling, or prayerful discernment, the Church has the opportunity to shape how it is perceived and, ultimately, how it can bring more people to the faith.

Tanner Kalina, the Mission Outreach Manager for the National Eucharistic Congress (NEC), shared his insights on the unique challenges and opportunities facing young adults in the Church today. This discussion touched on Tanner’s experiences, the evolving landscape of young adult ministry, and the critical role young adults play in the Church’s future.

The Complexity of Young Adulthood in the Church

Tanner kicked off the conversation by acknowledging the complexity of young adulthood, especially within the context of the Church. “Young adults, we have it hard,” he said, highlighting how this stage of life is marked by constant flux—career changes, varying life stages, and the pressure of finding one’s path in both life and faith. Unlike other age groups, young adults are often juggling multiple transitions, making it challenging to find a stable place within the Church community.

This transient nature of young adulthood poses a unique challenge for ministry. Tanner noted, “Everything is in flux. When you have young adults in the Church, it’s like, how do you get all these groups of people together? How do you get them moving towards the goal of holiness?” This challenge is compounded by the fact that many young adults are seeking authenticity in a world that often feels superficial.

The Role of the Eucharistic Revival

Amidst these challenges, Tanner sees hope in the current Eucharistic Revival. He believes it provides a clear and focused mission for young adults to rally behind. “With this Eucharistic Revival, it’s really prophetic because our bishops have called us to the source and summit of our lives,” he said. This focus on the Eucharist, as the central element of Catholic faith, offers young adults a tangible way to deepen their spiritual lives and find community.

Tanner expressed excitement about how young adults are embracing this movement, using their creativity and familiarity with digital platforms to promote a deeper connection to the Eucharist. “Young adults are cool. We’re creative. We’re chasing the authentic thing—the Eucharist,” he remarked, emphasizing that this generation is not content with mediocrity but is instead striving for the fullness of truth, beauty, and goodness.

Evangelizing to Young Adults

Addressing the pressing question of how to bring young adults back to the Church, Tanner shared a key insight: the power of personal invitation. He cited a statistic that 83% of people who leave the faith do so by age 23, often making the decision by age 13. Despite this alarming trend, Tanner emphasized that the method modeled by Jesus—walking with and investing in individuals—is the most effective way to evangelize.

“Jesus invited people, and He invested in people,” Tanner explained. He shared a personal story from his time as a FOCUS missionary, where consistent, unreciprocated invitations to a student eventually led that person back to the Church. This story underscored Tanner’s belief in the importance of persistence in evangelization, even when the initial response seems discouraging.

The Digital Age and Evangelization

In today’s hyper-connected world, Tanner discussed the overwhelming amount of messaging young adults are exposed to daily—up to 3,000 advertisements, according to some estimates. This bombardment of information has led to what psychologists call “hurry sickness,” where people feel constantly rushed and stressed. In contrast, Tanner highlighted the importance of slowing down, a lesson he draws from the Eucharist.

“Our Lord is not fast. He’s not a quick fix,” Tanner said, urging young adults to embrace the slow, steady journey of faith. He also sees potential in using digital platforms for evangelization, acknowledging the role these tools play in reaching young adults where they are. However, he cautioned that these tools should be used to complement, not replace, the deeper, more personal aspects of faith formation.

Building Community Across Generations

Tanner also touched on the importance of intergenerational relationships within the Church. He encouraged older adults to take an active role in mentoring young adults, sharing their wisdom and experience. “Older people, pour into the younger people. And younger people, we’re really receptive to it,” he said, emphasizing the mutual benefits of these relationships.

He shared examples of older parishioners who successfully started young adult groups, proving that age is no barrier to fostering vibrant, faith-filled communities. This approach not only helps bridge the generational gap but also ensures that young adults feel supported and valued within the Church.

Final Thoughts

As the session wrapped up, Tanner left the audience with a powerful message: the importance of invitation and witness. Whether through personal relationships, consistent invitations, or simply living out one’s faith authentically, these actions have the potential to transform lives, even if the fruits are not immediately visible.

“Don’t stop inviting, don’t stop pursuing the Lord deeply, and trust that your witness will go a long way,” Tanner concluded, encouraging everyone to take an active role in the spiritual growth of those around them.

Tanner’s insights provided a hopeful and practical roadmap for engaging young adults in the Church, reminding us all of the power of community, persistence, and authentic faith in bringing about spiritual revival.

Emily Mentok, co-founder of a media production company specializing in digital evangelization, shared her inspiring journey of working for the church and the unique role women play in ministry. Hosted by Gerardo from Pushpay, this session explored Emily’s experiences, challenges, and the evolving recognition of women’s contributions to the church.

A Calling to Serve

Emily’s journey into church work began with a profound sense of calling. “I really believe that after I had my conversion, my second conversion was God inviting me to feel like I had something to give back to serve the church,” she shared. Her path has taken her through various roles, most recently with the Archdiocese of Detroit, where she has been instrumental in overseeing digital evangelization projects.

The Power of Women in the Church

Gerardo emphasized the significant impact of women in church offices and their powerful voices. Emily echoed this sentiment, noting the church’s evolving recognition of women’s unique gifts. “The church, in her recent history, has been starting a conversation more and more about what women can do to serve and to recognize their unique gifts,” she said. This recognition mirrors the Biblical narrative, where Adam wasn’t complete without Eve, symbolizing the indispensable role of women in the church.

Overcoming Challenges

Addressing the challenges women face in the church, Emily acknowledged the historical and ongoing oppression of women worldwide. However, she expressed gratitude for the church’s current efforts to listen to the Holy Spirit and be more attentive to how women are called to serve. “There’s a realization of the role that laypeople, and specifically women, can play in the church,” she noted.

Inspirational Leaders and Feminine Genius

Emily highlighted the importance of supportive church leaders in her journey. Serving as a consultant to the Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis, she feels fortunate to be included in conversations with bishops, bringing the feminine genius into discussions. “I feel so grateful for the opportunity and especially to the women who paved the way,” she said.

Discussing the concept of the feminine genius, a term popularized by Pope John Paul II, Emily explained, “The feminine genius recognizes that God made women complementary to men, with unique and special gifts.” She encouraged women to bring these gifts to their work in the church, emphasizing that every woman has a place and a unique contribution to make.

Women’s Role in Church Revival

When asked about the role of women in the current church revival, Emily pointed to the visible presence and influence of women. “There wouldn’t be a revival in the American church without the women who are part of it,” she asserted. She highlighted women’s strengths in evangelization, particularly their ability to be inviting and welcoming.

Emily also shared her observations from a session on synodality, noting the significant participation of women. “I was struck by how many women were drawn to the conversation about synodality,” she remarked, suggesting that women’s gifts for focusing on individuals align well with the church’s mission in this area.

Advice for Women in Ministry

Emily offered encouraging advice for women working in the church. “Trust that God called you into that role,” she advised. She emphasized the importance of recognizing one’s unique contributions and not being discouraged by challenges. “Embrace that God put you there for a reason,” she urged, encouraging women to confidently bring their feminine genius to their work.

Staying Connected

To continue her work in digital evangelization, Emily co-founded Digital Continent, a media production company aimed at inspiring others through beautiful content. She shared her personal connection to this mission, having been brought back to the church through digital content. “I know that God can work in those ways,” she said, inviting others to explore the work of Digital Continent at digitalcontinent.org.

Emily’s insights underscore the invaluable contributions of women in the church and the importance of recognizing and embracing their unique gifts. Her journey serves as an inspiration for women in ministry and a testament to the evolving role of women in the church’s mission.

Joel, the Vice President for Programming and Administration at the National Eucharistic Congress, captivated attendees with his insights on building and sustaining a unified parish culture. Hosted by Gerardo from Pushpay, Joel’s talk was a masterclass in understanding, evaluating, and intentionally shaping parish culture to build a more cohesive and mission-driven community.

Recognizing Parish Culture

Joel began by making a point that resonated with many: every parish already has a culture, whether or not it’s acknowledged. He likened this to bacteria growing on our hands – it’s there, even if we don’t actively create it. This analogy underscores the necessity for parish leaders to recognize and understand the existing culture within their community. Often, multiple sub-cultures coexist within a single parish, leading to tension and conflict when not aligned. Joel stressed that acknowledging the presence of these varied cultures is the first step toward harmonizing them.

Three Key Strategies for Alignment

Joel offered three actionable strategies to bring parish cultures into alignment:

1. Know the “Why”: It’s crucial for everyone in the parish to understand the purpose behind their actions. Joel shared that without a clear and communicated mission, parishioners and staff form their own ideas about what’s most important, leading to conflicts over resources and priorities. A unified mission helps prevent these conflicts and ensures that everyone is working towards the same goals.
2. Define the “What”: Clarifying what the parish does and, importantly, what it chooses not to do is essential. Joel highlighted the importance of being able to say no to certain activities to focus on what truly aligns with the parish’s mission. This focused approach allows for better resource allocation and more effective ministry.
3. Articulate the “How”: Understanding and communicating the values that guide parish activities is key. Values shape behaviors and decision-making processes within the parish. Joel noted that values need to be clearly defined and consistently demonstrated by parish leaders. For instance, if hospitality is a core value, what does that look like in practice for the parish?

Leadership and Culture

Joel reinforced that leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping and maintaining parish culture. Leaders must embody the culture they wish to see in their parishioners. This means leading by example in both spiritual and practical matters. For instance, if parish leaders want a culture of evangelization, they themselves must be active in sharing their faith.

The Importance of Honesty and Patience

Joel also highlighted the importance of honesty in evaluating parish culture. Sometimes, this means recognizing and addressing uncomfortable truths about how the parish operates. Change takes time, and patience is crucial. Joel encouraged parishes to stay committed to the process, even when progress seems slow.

Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

The session wrapped up with a Q&A, where Joel provided further insights on fostering change from the bottom up and supporting parish leaders in their roles. He invited attendees to follow his work and the ongoing activities of the National Eucharistic Congress, encouraging them to remain engaged and prayerful as they work towards a more unified and mission-driven parish culture.

Joel’s parting message was clear: by focusing on the “why,” “what,” and “how” of parish activities, and by embodying the desired culture, parish leaders and members can create a more cohesive and effective community, better equipped to fulfill their mission and serve their congregation.

How do you know when it’s time to upgrade your Church Management Software? You may have been using the same system for years, but technology is constantly evolving and what was once cutting-edge may now be outdated. If you’re wondering whether it’s time to make a change, here are three signs to look out for.

1. You’re Spending Too Much Time on Administrative Tasks

Managing church operations involves juggling various tasks, from scheduling volunteers to organizing events. If you find that these administrative tasks are consuming too much of your time and taking you away from your ministry, it’s a clear sign that your current ChMS is not meeting your needs.

Automate and Streamline Tasks

Automated reporting allows you to create detailed reports with just a few clicks, providing a clear look into church activities without the hassle of manual data entry.

Creating volunteer schedules can be a daunting task, especially for growing parishes. ParishStaq simplifies this by offering automated scheduling features that ensure all roles are filled efficiently. Additionally, generating worship plans becomes a breeze, allowing you to focus more on ministry and less on logistics.

By automating and streamlining tasks, ParishStaq helps you maintain a smooth-running parish, ensuring that all aspects of church management are handled with ease. This not only enhances efficiency but also allows church staff to dedicate more time to serving the community and fulfilling the church’s mission.

2. You Lack Clear Understanding of Church Activities and Member Engagement

Understanding the needs and engagement levels of your parishioners is crucial for effective ministry. If your current ChMS lacks robust data analytics and reporting capabilities, you’re missing out on valuable information that can help drive growth and engagement within your parish.

Gain Deeper Insights

Understanding the needs and engagement levels of your parishioners is crucial for effective ministry. Modern ChMS tools should be able to provide enhanced data analytics and reporting capabilities, offering deeper insights into church activities and member engagement. These insights enable you to make informed decisions that drive growth and engagement within your parish.

With advanced data analytics, you can track attendance, monitor giving patterns, and evaluate the effectiveness of various programs and events. This data-driven approach allows you to identify trends and areas for improvement, ensuring that your ministry efforts are aligned with the needs of your congregation.

Enhanced reporting capabilities also enable you to share valuable insights with church leadership and stakeholders, fostering transparency and collaboration. By leveraging these insights, you can develop strategies to enhance member engagement, increase participation, and ultimately strengthen your parish community.

3. Your ChMS Isn’t Safe!

Protecting sensitive information is paramount today. ChMS solutions should come equipped with advanced security features to safeguard your data. Be on the lookout for features like PCI-DSS compliance, fraud detection, and independent audits, these can help to ensure that your data is secure and protected from unauthorized access.

Enhanced security measures also include secure login protocols and encryption, providing an additional layer of protection for your data. This ensures that only authorized personnel can access sensitive information, reducing the risk of data breaches and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.

Accessibility is another critical aspect of modern ChMS solutions. ParishStaq offers mobile-friendly tools (like the LEAD app) that provide easy access to data from anywhere, at any time. Whether you’re on the go or working remotely, you can stay connected to your church’s activities and make informed decisions on the fly.

On the note of accessibility, ParishStaq is available in a number of languages: Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Spanish, and English.

Conclusion

Upgrading your Catholic ChMS is a strategic move that can significantly enhance your church’s operations, engagement, and overall effectiveness. By automating and streamlining tasks, gaining deeper insights, and leveraging adaptable, cost-efficient software, you can create a thriving parish community that meets the needs of your community.

If you’re ready to take your church management to the next level, consider exploring ParishStaq. With its advanced features, robust security, and flexible solutions, ParishStaq is designed to support the growth and success of your parish. Take the first step towards a more efficient and effective church management system—explore ParishStaq today.

Digital giving is on the rise in parishes. According to Pushpay’s 2024 Catholic State of Church Tech report, online and mobile giving tools increased 15% this year. Leaders are discovering the powerful benefits of parish donation software – especially those equipped with digital giving platforms. But, keeping up with the changing landscape of technology can be challenging. In this blog, we walk you through the features that are most important to parishes today and how to choose the right parish donation software.

Why Choose a New Parish Donation Software?

Parishes today are increasingly harnessing the power of online giving to manage donations. Central to this evolution is having a top-tier parish donation software that includes robust giving tools with online, mobile, and recurring giving options. It should make the act of giving not only convenient but also a seamless part of a parishioner’s journey of faith.

Online Giving: The Touch of a Button

What if you could offer your parishioners the convenience of making a donation from anywhere, anytime, with just a few clicks? Your parish donation software should provide a secure platform where parishioners can access your parish’s dedicated giving page or website to make their contributions. This method effectively replaces the need for physical checks or cash and offers a giving experience that’s in tune with their digital lifestyle.

Mobile Giving: Generosity On-the-Go

With the right giving platform, parishioners can make donations through custom parish apps or mobile browsers. This feature allows them to give at their convenience, whether they’re on a coffee break, commuting, or relaxing at home. The ability to donate anytime, anywhere underscores the accessibility and convenience that mobile giving offers.

Recurring Giving: The Gift that Keeps on Giving

For those who wish to provide consistent support to their parish, recurring giving is incredibly practical. Parishioners can set up automatic donations at a frequency that suits them—weekly, monthly, quarterly, etc. This feature not only ensures steady support for your parish but also simplifies the donation process for parishioners.

By offering these varied giving options, parish donation software streamlines processes, making giving more manageable and less time-consuming for both parish staff and parishioners. It also allows your donors to choose a method that aligns with their preferences and lifestyle. So whether it’s through a secure online platform, on a mobile device during an impactful Lenten retreat, or as recurring donations, parishioners are empowered to contribute in a way that is most convenient and meaningful to them.

Efficient Tracking and Reporting

In addition to facilitating diverse donation methods, the right parish donation software doubles as a donation tracking software (and triples as a church accounting software!) which means you get efficient tracking and financial reporting baked into your chosen platform. This feature is indispensable for parishes aiming to maintain transparency and accountability in their finances.

Automated Record-Keeping: Every Penny Counts

Parish giving software should automatically record each donation made, whether it’s a one-time online donation, a mobile contribution, a recurring gift, envelope offerings, or gifts-in-kind. Find a giving solution that logs the date, amount, donor information, and the method of donation. This should effectively eliminate manual data entry errors, ensure accurate record-keeping, and auto-generate a donation receipt. This level of automation streamlines administrative tasks, which enables your staff to focus more on meaningful ministry and less on paperwork.

Financial Reports at Your Fingertips

Understanding donation patterns and analyzing the overall financial health of a parish is vital for strategic planning and resource allocation. Thankfully, the right church accounting software simplifies this process by providing the ability to generate detailed financial reports with ease.

These reports provide valuable insights into the donation landscape, such as the frequency of donations, preferred donation methods, and average donation amounts. They can also highlight seasonal trends or identify periods of increased giving, which can inform future fundraising strategies.

By offering a clear view of income streams, these reports empower parish leaders to make informed decisions that align with their mission and financial goals. Moreover, they enable parishes to demonstrate financial stewardship to their flock, which in turn builds trust and promotes a culture of stewardship.

Enhancing Donor Engagement and Communication

Beyond the logistical advantages of streamlining donations and facilitating financial tracking, the right parish donation software has another powerful feature to offer: the ability to enhance donor engagement and communication. This function is vital in nurturing a sense of community and fostering healthy relationships with donors.

Personalized Thank-You Messages: A Gesture of Gratitude

Acknowledging donations promptly and personally can make a world of difference in how parishioners perceive their relationship with the parish. Parish donation software makes this task effortless by enabling automated yet personalized thank-you messages.

This personal touch deepens the connection between the parish and its parishioners. It communicates to donors that their generosity is recognized and valued, and encourages them to continue supporting their parish.

Regular Updates: Keeping Donors Informed

In addition to expressing gratitude, it’s equally important to keep donors informed about how their contributions are making a difference.

Whenever possible, particularly if you’re running a giving campaign, keep your parishioners up to date on your progress. These updates serve a dual purpose. First, they reinforce transparency, assuring donors that their contributions are being used responsibly and effectively. Secondly, they cultivate a sense of stewardship, motivating donors to stay engaged with their parish’s mission.

By facilitating personalized acknowledgments and regular updates, you’re able to nurture strong, meaningful relationships in your community. Through every thank-you message and update, it echoes the core values of gratitude, transparency, and stewardship.

Choosing the Right Parish Donation Software

Let’s explore the key features you should consider to ensure that the software you choose meets your parish’s unique needs.

Key Features to Look For

1. Secure and Reliable Payment Processing

The first and foremost feature is secure and reliable payment processing. Parishioners need to trust that their financial information is safe and that their donations will be processed accurately and promptly.

2. Integration with Existing Church Management Software

Compatibility with your existing church management software is another crucial aspect. This integration will allow for seamless data sharing, reducing administrative workload and enhancing efficiency. You can also opt to onboard a software like ParishStaq so that you can be sure your ChMS and Giving platforms will speak to each other.

3. Multiple Giving Options

A versatile parish donation software should offer multiple giving options like online, mobile, text, and traditional envelope donations. This diversity caters to different donor preferences and facilitates consistent and convenient giving.

4. Customizable Giving Experience

Look for software that provides a customizable giving experience, including branding options. This feature allows you to create a familiar and personalized donation platform that resonates with your parishioners.

5. Recurring Donation Capabilities

As we’ve discussed, recurring donation capabilities are an important feature that ensures steady support and simplifies the donation process.

6. Donor Management and Tracking

Efficient donor management and tracking enable you to maintain accurate records, understand donor behavior, and develop tailored engagement strategies.

7. Reporting and Analytics

Insightful reporting and analytics tools can help you track giving trends, inform future fundraising strategies, and demonstrate financial stewardship to your community.

8. Support for Multiple Languages and Multi-Parish Giving

If your parish is multilingual or part of a larger diocese, look for software that supports multiple languages and multi-parish giving. These features ensure inclusivity and facilitate broader community support.

Evaluating Software Providers

Once you have identified the essential features, it’s time to evaluate potential software providers. Here are some pointers to guide your selection process:

• Research and Compare

Start by researching different software providers and comparing their offerings. Look at the features they provide, how those align with your needs, and the overall value for money.

• Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Customer reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the software’s efficiency and the provider’s customer service. They offer a glimpse into the experiences of other parishes, helping you anticipate potential challenges or benefits. Read about how St. Isidore Church used Pushpay Giving to increase engagement and giving.

• Experience and Reputation

Consider the provider’s experience and reputation in the industry. A proven track record can give you confidence in their expertise and reliability.

• Customer Support and Training Options

Evaluating the provider’s customer support and training options is crucial. These services will ensure that your team can effectively use the software and receive prompt assistance when needed.

• Security Measures and Compliance

Assess the provider’s security measures and compliance with industry standards. This evaluation is essential to protect your parishioners’ sensitive data and maintain their trust.

• Demos or Trials

Request demos or trials to test the software’s functionality. This firsthand experience will help you assess whether the software is user-friendly and meets your expectations.

• Scalability

Finally, ensure the software can scale and grow with your parish’s needs. As your community expands or evolves, your software should be able to accommodate these changes seamlessly.

Choosing the right parish donation software involves careful consideration of its features and the credibility of the software provider. Your chosen software should not only streamline donations and financial management but also foster donor engagement and stewardship. By making an informed choice, you can enhance the financial health of your parish and nurture a vibrant, engaged faith community.

The landscape of attendance, involvement, and giving has witnessed significant shifts over the last few decades. In order to stay ahead and effectively plan for the future, parishes need to understand these changes and adapt accordingly. One of the most insightful ways to spot these trends is by analyzing historical giving data which can reveal a wealth of information about a parish’s engagement, financial health, and overall growth.

The Importance of Historical Giving Data

Understanding Past Giving Patterns

Knowing how, when, and what your parishioners give is crucial in understanding their behavior and the health of your parish’s finances. By examining past giving data, you can recognize patterns—seasonal fluctuations or the impact of specific events on giving—which will inform your future planning efforts.

React to Changes Proactively

Analysis of giving trends allows parish administrators to be proactive rather than reactive. Recognizing a downward trend early, for example, can help you address potential concerns before they become problematic. Similarly, identifying growth areas can shift focus towards activities or ministries that are engaging the community effectively.

Measure the Impact of Initiatives

When a parish launches a new initiative, campaign, or appeal, historical giving data helps measure its success. Did giving see a spike after a particular initiative? Such insights can guide a parish in developing more effective campaigns and programs, ensuring that both spiritual and financial needs are being met.

Planning For Future Growth

Analyze Year-Over-Year Trends

To spot trends, start by comparing giving data year over year. Look for both increases and decreases, and align those with any events or initiatives that might have influenced those changes. This will help you understand what actions had positive or negative effects on giving.

Seasonal Giving Patterns

Most parishes experience seasonal trends, with certain times of year — such as Christmas or Easter — typically bringing in higher donations. Planning your parish’s budget around these trends will allow for more accurate forecasting and better allocation of resources.

Demographic Insights

Understanding who is giving can be as important as understanding how much is given. Break down your giving data by age group, family status, or even region. This data can signal shifting demographics in your parish community and suggest ways to engage different groups more effectively.

Forecasting

Using historical data, forecast your parish’s financial trajectory. This exercise isn’t about predicting the future with exact certainty; rather, it’s about preparing for it with the best information available. Implement statistical tools or software that can help in creating a more scientific forecasting model.

Set Realistic Goals

Based on past trends, set realistic goals for future giving. Consider both the expected and the aspirational, but ensure these targets are grounded in reality. This will help your parish plan confidently for various ministries and outreach activities.

Adaptive Strategies for Changing Giving Patterns

Digital giving platforms, for example, have become increasingly popular and are part of the shift in giving behavior. Ensure your parish adapts to these changes. If your historical data shows an increase in digital giving, investing in and promoting these platforms would be strategic.

Engage and Educate Parishioners

Use the insights from giving data to educate and engage your parishioners about the importance of their contributions. Transparency about how funds are used can encourage trust and generosity.

Combining Your Strategy With Giving Tech For Churches

Historical giving data is a treasure trove of information that, when analyzed correctly, provides invaluable insights for growth and sustainability. Stewarding this resource effectively means better serving your community and fulfilling the Church’s mission. By harnessing the power of historical giving data, your parish can anticipate trends, adapt strategies, and engage your community in meaningful ways that support both the spiritual and fiscal health of your parish.

Pushpay Giving modernizes and enhances parish giving. Seamlessly streamline campaigns, boost donor growth, and optimize engagement, all enriched by the innovative Everygift technology. Download The Everygift Impact and discover how this revolutionary technology can transform your parish.

Discipleship is the heart of the Church’s mission. It’s a lifelong journey of faith formation, and it begins with a warm welcome and intentional follow-up with new parishioners. As parish leaders, you’re tasked with the crucial role of guiding these people in their journey. Here are five process ideas to help you onboard new parishioners and foster a community excited to engage in discipleship.

1. Onboard With A Welcome Breakfast

It’s a big step when a new parishioner joins your community. It means they’re ready for a conversation and eager to learn more about your parish. Help them navigate the new process by providing clear instructions so that they know what to expect. For example, once they’ve taken the time to complete and submit a new member form, they’ll want to know when they’ll hear from you. On your form, make it clear that you’ll follow up within three days and be sure that you have an internal process in place that instantly notifies your staff when a new parishioner signs up. 

The next step in this process should be a welcome breakfast designed especially for new parishioners. The goal of this event is to introduce them to your parish leadership, mission and vision statements, and your ministries. Make sure to pair each new member with a trained mentor who can answer questions and provide guidance during the day and throughout their journey. Work closely with your mentors and share the details from the parishioner form with them. It will equip your mentors to understand what path to recommend to a new parishioner and how to effectively disciple them. For example, if a new parishioner isn’t Catholic, a mentor will immediately  provide them with information on OCIA or a small group. But if a mentor is assigned to guide a fully initiated new parishioner, they might recommend information to a liturgical ministry.

2. Matching Time and Talent With Service Opportunities

Service is an essential part of discipleship. Whether it’s volunteering at the food pantry or singing in the choir, service allows new parishioners to contribute meaningfully while fostering a sense of belonging. 

To effectively engage them in service roles that resonate with their talents and interests, create a simple form to capture key information such as personal strengths, previous volunteer or professional experiences, skills, and weekly availability. Make the form accessible through your website or on your mobile church app. 

By gathering this data, your staff can better match individuals with service opportunities that align with their capabilities and schedule. Once you’ve collected their responses, they can be automatically organized into your church management software. Set up a process that notifies your ministry leader about new talent and recommend that they connect with the parishioner within three days to discuss how they can contribute their time and talents. Work closely with your leaders to ensure that your new parishioners are set up for success in their discipleship journey. 

Another strategy is to organize ‘meet and serve’ events that bring members together in a shared spirit of service. Some of your members may not be ready to fill out a form and make a commitment. These events are simply designed to foster a sense of community and also provide a platform for individuals to connect and collaborate while making a positive impact.

3. Small Group Integration

Small groups is a great way for a new parishioner to get to know your parish. They play a vital role in fostering faith and relationships. By welcoming new members into these intimate settings, individuals can delve into their faith in a secure and supportive atmosphere, nurturing deep connections with fellow parishioners and aiding in their spiritual development.

Small group leaders can leverage the convenience of a mobile church app to create a more integrated community experience. Members can engage in forums, sharing insights and discussing faith-related topics even when they’re not physically together. Additionally, features such as push notifications ensure that members are aware of upcoming events and group discussions, which can significantly increase participation rates. Check-in functionalities offer leaders a way to keep track of attendance and reach out if they notice patterns of prolonged absence or disengagement. This proactive approach underscores the care and personalized attention that small groups offer. 

Start this process by creating a QR code to download your mobile church app. Encourage new members to download your app and join in small group discussions. Direct your members to check-in each time they attend. Be sure to communicate your group’s schedule and upcoming parish events.

4. Spiritual Retreats—Invite and Follow-Up

Retreats provide a break from daily routines to concentrate on spiritual development. Create a sign-up form and a QR code to make it easy for anyone to access. Utilize bulletins, social media, and pulpit announcements to ensure that everyone knows about the retreat opportunities. Actual testimonials from previous attendees highlighting their positive experiences can be incredibly persuasive.

Make an effort to reach out personally to new parishioners, either through a friendly email or a face-to-face conversation after Mass. Offer scholarships or discounts, especially to those attending for the first time. This gesture not only demonstrates the inclusive nature of your parish community but also removes potential obstacles that may prevent someone from participating.

Assign a priest, seminarian, or a deacon to follow up with participants for feedback after the retreat. Encourage them to share their experiences with others and connect them with opportunities where they can continue their journey.

5. Regular Check-ins and Feedback Sessions

Discipleship is an ongoing journey, not a singular event. Consistent interactions and feedback sessions with new parishioners offer crucial insights into their needs and experiences. This data aids in customizing the discipleship process to stay pertinent and impactful. 

Schedule regular check-ins with new parishioners. They serve a dual purpose: they affirm your parish’s commitment to individual spiritual growth and allow for the personalization of faith journeys. Whether through face-to-face meetings, phone calls, or even an email, these touchpoints are instrumental in building strong, trusting relationships . They provide a sense of belonging and offer leaders valuable feedback to refine their discipleship programs effectively.

Another option is to create effective surveys or feedback forms. The information can be pivotal in understanding the experiences and needs of new parishioners. Questions should be clear, concise, and relevant to their spiritual journey. The aim is to elicit responses that can directly inform and improve the discipleship process. To do this, consider employing a mix of qualitative and quantitative questions that cover a broad spectrum of topics, from the helpfulness of resources that you provided to the warmth of personal connections. It’s also beneficial to ensure anonymity to encourage candid responses and establish a regular rhythm for distributing these surveys to capture ongoing experiences, not just one-off impressions.

Adjusting discipleship initiatives in response to feedback is crucial in fostering an environment where new parishioners can thrive. Upon collecting feedback, it’s important to analyze the data with an open mind and a willingness to evolve. This means looking for patterns or common suggestions that indicate where programs might be falling short. For example, if multiple individuals express a desire for more hands-on volunteer opportunities as part of their spiritual growth, your parish should consider integrating service projects into their discipleship approach. Changes could also involve introducing new study materials, adjusting the frequency of meetings to suit the group’s availability, or providing additional training for mentors to better address the specific challenges that new parishioners face. In making such adjustments, parishes demonstrate their dedication to serving their community and ensure that each person’s spiritual journey is respected and nurtured.

Discipleship is a journey that your entire parish embarks on together. By incorporating these processes into your approach to welcoming and integrating new parishioners, you strengthen not only the individual’s faith but the entire community. Remember, the key to discipleship is relationships, and it is through these connections that the love of Christ is most powerfully witnessed and shared.

Want to continue building a stronger foundation for your volunteers as they grow in discipleship? Download the 10 Steps To Give Every Volunteer What They Need. It explains why volunteers leave and what you can do to equip them for leadership and discipleship.

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