Fewer Churches Face Limited Cash Reserves

“Compared to 2016, churches are more likely to have more than seven weeks of cash reserves. Additionally, few have had someone embezzle funds from the congregation.” - Lifeway

Discussion

The church my family previously attended kept three months of operational expenses in cash reserves.

The church we currently attend keeps between 9-12 months of operational expenses in cash reserves.

The old thinking in personal finance circles was to keep between 3-6months. But, now after the pandemic I see a lot more 6-12month recommendations.

Speculative Questions: Considering problems about solvency of some banks, growing gov't control over banking, inevitable shift to digital currencies which itself raises questions of control & privacy - Should churches keep some of their money in a secure location outside the banking system - cash, gold/silver? Should churches develop ways to fund missions, etc which minimize involvement in the banking system? Christians in persecution areas often find their financial accounts frozen, seized, denied. Just Wondering.

Wally Morris
Huntington, IN