The landscape of generosity is changing
Between the pulpit, the pews, and spaces outside the church, generosity is defined differently. What does it truly mean to live a generous life? This question was at the heart of Thrivent’s research in partnership with Barna Group.
The Generosity Story insights report
91%
Did you know that 91% of U.S. pastors strongly agree that
Christian churches have a responsibility to teach Christians
how to be generous?
7%
But only 7% of U.S. pastors strongly agree that Christian
churches are successful at developing generous people.
Interested in exploring generosity far beyond dollars given and
hours served? Download this free report to learn more.
The Generosity Expresssions®
What is generosity?
In its simplest form, we define generosity as “giving to others.” Using research in partnership with Barna, Thrivent discovered five primary ways in which U.S. Christians choose to be generous: monetary support, volunteering/service, hospitality, gifts and emotional/relational support. We call these the Generosity Expressions.
Each of these expressions can be categorized into two broad groups—giving of things (whether money or other items we possess) and giving of self (where we are interpersonally and often physically involved).
In its simplest form, we define generosity as “giving to others.” Using research in partnership with Barna, Thrivent discovered five primary ways in which U.S. Christians choose to be generous: monetary support, volunteering/service, hospitality, gifts and emotional/relational support. We call these the Generosity Expressions.
Each of these expressions can be categorized into two broad groups—giving of things (whether money or other items we possess) and giving of self (where we are interpersonally and often physically involved).
Cultivate generosity in your church and community
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Share this research with your pastor network, staff, or people
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and generosity resources to guide you and the people you serve
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Barna is not affiliated with or endorsed by Thrivent.
Source: Research conducted by Barna Group (April and May 2022)
Source: Research conducted by Barna Group (April and May 2022)