How to create a church budget

I like these ideas so much:

Compile the budget—The process of compiling a church budget can put the skills of your people into practice. Form a budget team from those who have finance backgrounds or finance skills. Then add members to the team who may not have as much experience. They’ll not only learn about the budget they’ll also be more focused on the financial needs of the church.

Promote the budget— Secret budgets will never gain public approval. Form a stewardship team to advertise and explain the budget. It may include members of the finance committee, but appoint additional members as well—especially people who have skills in graphic arts or communication. Remember the principle, “Informed givers are happy givers.”
Once again, the participation of these members will not only facilitate the process but also provide an opportunity for them to a) learn about stewardship, b) use their God-given gifts, and c) create enthusiasm for approving the budget.
The creation of PowerPoint presentations, pie charts, financial reports, and so on broadens the web of understanding and acceptance of the church’s financial goals.

Pass the budget—By involving a wider number of skilled members in compiling the church budget you’ll cause a wider number of congregants to take ownership. Members of the team can present various components of the budget. While a pastor may have difficulty in adding a budget line for automobile expenses into the salary package, a committee member may be able to utilize communication skills to put the need in perspective—especially if that member has been embarrassed to ride in the pastor’s old car!

Track the budget—churches often have their own “geek squad.” Members of your congregation may have specialized computer skills that can be utilized to keep the congregation on track in meeting its financial goals. Some of those same members may only speak “computer” and be fearful of teaching a small group. But they may shine behind the monitor screen in compiling tracking reports. Think of it, someone in your congregation is waiting to help you compile and present a winning budget—and learn how to be a good steward at the same time.