By Rev. Dr. Melvin Wilson, Jr., Pastor, Bethel AME Church, San Antonio, TX

I teach ECRF because I have witnessed the impact on ministries. Since funding today is vastly different from what it was even a few years ago, many leaders are tired of life in the ministry. Churches are teetering on the brink of closing, and many leaders are walking out, so they are not receiving adequate support from anyone to make them go forward again. I don’t want to see those who are called by God let their hard work fall because they are burnt out. I firmly intend to lead them through the battles to encourage them to stay in the fight. However, words and clichés have less impact without formal tools and training. This is where the ECRF shines! 

I have watched participants from many different denominations use this material to change their outlook. They move from a place of scarcity into a place of mission. It is amazing when that “light bulb” goes on. A part of this program that stands out is that it utilizes high-quality research with practice. It isn’t just a series of “best practices” from a business book. It is about the theology of how we care for our communities, which not everyone can fully articulate in a way that religious leaders can easily comprehend. 

Hence, I use these tools in my own work every day. Whether I am managing a project or engaging donors, the ECRF principles keep me focused on relationships rather than just transactions. I commit my time outside of my primary work because I believe in the impact. Our leaders deserve the best training possible to face the modern world.

Hear more from Rev. Dr. Melvin Wilson, Jr. here and explore more Lake Institute on Faith & Giving videos here.