You have likely heard of Saint Bernardine of Siena, a 15th century Franciscan. Pope Pius II called him a second Paul.

I read through the Life of Saint Bernardine and discovered he had a strange approach to fundraising. Yes, he did fundraise, and, yes, he had his own style!

As any saint does, he challenges our perspectives. This time, Saint Bernardine made me rethink my views on how to ask.

Here is what I learned from him:

There are many things to consider when fundraising.

Sometimes I’ll spend hours, even days, fine-tuning a letter to prospects or brainstorming ideas for campaigns.

That stuff is important.

But there’s a fine line between allowing yourself to get lost in the details versus moving your Catholic mission forward.

Enter Saint Augustine of Hippo.

He had LOADS of responsibilities, some included fundraising. He knew that it had to get done, but he also knew not to overthink it.

Today, I recommend you learn three ways Saint Augustine managed his fundraising which come from St. Possidius‘s biography, Life of Saint Augustine.

Good fundraising isn’t about shouting from the rooftops about why people should donate to your cause.

It starts with focusing on what matters most (God), keeping your eyes open, and inspiring your community to become more holy.

Take, for example, Saint John Vianney. He began his priestly ministry with a rundown parish, empty pews, and very few financial resources.

You could say he started with nothing…

This week’s article is all about how Saint John Vianney started – especially with fundraising – so you can change more lives and make an even greater impact. Check it out…

PS – the information about Saint John Vianney’s approach comes from the book, the Life of the Cure d’Ars by the Abbe Alfred Monnin. Translated from the French edition.

The saints (especially the apostles) were very influential people, and, as a result, could personally benefit from their situation. This includes money, but they didn’t.

Instead, when they did have material wealth, the saints used it for good.

This is what Saint Robert Bellarmine – Doctor of the Church – teaches in his spiritual masterpiece, the Eternal Happiness of the Saints.

Saint Bellarmine explains how fundraising (the Catholic way) can build the Kingdom of God and inspire others to be holy, and that’s what this week’s discussion is all about:

Have you ever heard of Saint Bonaventure?

I’ve been fortunate enough a few years ago to come across the writings of this incredible Doctor of the Church.

This week, I picked up his classic, Holiness of Life, to see if it had any insight into fundraising.

… and of course, it did.

Saint Bonaventure talks about how poverty can make you rich both in spiritual and temporal treasures. His wisdom will open up new avenues on how you can find donors. Check it out: