NEXT SUNDAY
Shaping the Churches of Tomorrow, Today
Welcome to Next Sunday, more than just a podcast—it's your vibrant community of forward-thinking church leaders. Our episodes are crafted to serve as a dynamic field guide for bridging generations, cultivating generosity, and inspiring transformation within the church. Together, we will tackle challenges head-on, celebrate our victories, and possibly ruffle a few feathers because what happens next Sunday could change everything.
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BI-WEEKLY EPISODES: A NEW EPISODE IS RELEASED EVERY OTHER TUESDAY
MOST RECENT EPISODE
Transforming Church Giving for High-Capacity Donors
How do churches steward the wealth of high-capacity givers without making it awkward or transactional?
In this episode, Jim and Frank tackle the complex dynamics of engaging wealthy donors in the church. They discuss the challenges pastors face in guiding these individuals toward spiritual transformation, not just financial contributions. You’ll learn how to disciple those entrusted with much, ensuring they understand the deeper responsibilities their wealth brings.
In this episode:
- Why talking to wealthy church members can be uncomfortable—but necessary.
- How to ensure their giving is about more than just writing a check.
- Practical advice on building trust and offering discipleship for high-capacity donors.
MORE EPISODES
Should Pastors Know Who Gives What
Posted 10/15/24
Should pastors know who gives what? It’s a controversial topic that touches the heart of church leadership and the nature of generosity. In this episode, Jim and Frank tackle the complex issue of whether pastors should know their congregation's giving habits—and the surprising reasons why many don’t want to.
While giving is often viewed as a personal matter, its impact on spiritual growth and leadership can't be ignored. You'll hear a thought-provoking discussion on how this affects church culture and pastoral care.
In this episode:
- Why some pastors avoid knowing who gives, and how much
- The most common scripture used—and how it’s often misapplied
- Practical ways churches can approach giving without favoritism or discomfort
How Three Minutes Can Transform Your Church's Finances
Posted 10/01/24
Three minutes each Sunday can completely change the way your congregation views and talks about money.
In this episode, we tackle the tough questions about money in the church and its perception. We share why the conversation around giving (or lack thereof,) has drifted into a transactional focus and how to reclaim it. Learn how just 3 minutes every Sunday can radically change how your church views and handles money.
In this Episode:
- Why church giving often feels transactional instead of transformational
- The powerful impact of consistent, focused teaching on money
- Practical steps to reshape your church’s approach to finances
The Hidden Dangers of ROI in Church Leadership
Posted 9/17/24
The Elephant in the room in YOUR church – it’s time to address it.
This week, Jim and Frank explore the complex topic of ROI (Return on Investment) in ministry. They discuss how it influences church decision-making, and share thoughts about the tension between financial stewardship and metric tracking. There’s a key difference between an ROI mindset and a mission-driven funding pursuit that may not have immediate tangible returns.
In this Episode:
- Understand the pitfalls of letting ROI drive every ministry decision
- Is God giving you a sign to stop a certain slow-growing ministry?
- The importance of open, honest conversations about ROI and its impact on church decisions
YOUR HOSTS
FRANK BEALER &
JIM SHEPARD
Frank Bealer
Frank is a distinguished leader and innovator in organizational leadership, church ministry, and family-centered development. As the Co-Founder of Phase Franchise Partners, Frank has demonstrated a profound commitment to creating environments that support family growth and community engagement.
He also serves as an advisor and Chief Strategy Officer at Generis. Frank leverages his diverse background to serve churches and non-profit organizations to help maximize their potential through effective stewardship and generosity strategies.
Frank is a devoted husband and father to six children with many other notable professional endeavors that have informed his extensive leadership. His family is at the heart of everything he does, inspiring his work and his dedication to creating positive change in the lives of others.
Jim Sheppard
Jim Sheppard is CEO & Principal of Generis, a consulting firm passionate about helping churches inspire and cultivate generosity through giving development, coaching, and strategy.
Jim is a student of generosity and is passionate about spreading it throughout the Church. For the last 30+ years, he has devoted his life to coaching pastors especially in navigating the resource limitations that restrict their ministry potential. Jim understands the financial challenges that churches face today; annual giving, debt, capital projects, and planned giving. He is a positive force in bridging these needs with the power of spiritually motivated stewardship. Cumulatively, Jim has partnered with his clients to raise over $2 billion for local church ministry. Jim is a frequent writer and speaker on generosity and ministry funding. He is co-author of Contagious Generosity: Creating A Culture Of Giving In Your Church.
Jim and his wife, Nancy, live in the Atlanta, GA area and they have two married daughters. He is actively involved in his church where he serves as an elder and provides guidance to the Generosity Ministry Team.