Lesson 02: Developing a Partnership Team & The "God Ask"¶

Lesson overview¶

This lesson teaches practical partner mapping and the steps to make a faithful "God Ask" without turning supporters into transactions.

Key idea¶

A partnership team is a network of people, not a donor list; the ask should invite participation, not pressure.

Why this matters¶

When supporters feel used, relationships break down. Ethical fundraising builds long-term trust.

Field context¶

This applies to email networks, church teams, personal contacts, and community-based supporters.

Learner role¶

The learner should map relationships honestly, track contact needs respectfully, and communicate gratitude regularly.

Team role¶

Teams should help identify shared prayer supporters, financial partners, and communication allies.

Preparation¶

List existing supporters, prayer partners, and potential new contacts.
Group contacts by relationship type rather than gift potential.
Prepare brief praise reports and prayer updates.

Step 1: Map the network¶

Create a partner map with categories such as prayer supporters, financial partners, mentor partners, and communication partners.

Step 2: Plan the God Ask¶

Decide who to ask, why you are asking them, and what partnership looks like for each person.

Step 3: Use relational follow-up¶

Track conversations, send thank-you notes, and share progress honestly rather than only when asking for money.

flowchart LR
    A["Map Network<br/>(Prayer Partners, Donors, Mentors)"] --> B["Make the God Ask<br/>(Invite participation, not obligation)"]
    B --> C["Partner Commits<br/>(Gift or prayer support secured)"]
    C --> D["Send Regular Praise/Prayer Reports<br/>(Monthly updates on progress)"]
    D --> E["Pastoral Care for Donor<br/>(Check in; express gratitude; share struggles)"]
    E --> D
    classDef cycle fill:#f3f4f6,stroke:#2b6cb0,stroke-width:2px;
    class A,B,C,D,E cycle;

Common challenges¶

It is easy to treat people as transactions when you only track gifts. Focus first on relationship and shared calling.

Practical example¶

A worker sends a short note to a small group of supporters, describing the need, the shared mission, and how they can pray and give.

Reflection questions¶

Who is already on your partnership team?
What is one way to follow up without asking for money?
How will you balance gratitude and requests?

Summary¶

Developing a partnership team is a relational process. The God Ask should invite participation in mission, not create pressure.

Next step¶

Build a partner map and draft one God Ask for a close supporter group.

Risk / Disclaimer: This lesson is for general training only and is not financial or legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney or financial professional for legal, tax, or compliance questions.

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