Turning Strangers into Friends
The Ministry of Hospitality in Fundraising
Fundraisers, at their core, are hosts.
We invite strangers into a shared story, introduce them to a movement, and help them become friends—and even advocates—of our mission. This work requires a heart of hospitality, a value that echoes throughout Scripture and defines the heart of Gospel ministry.
In Titus 1:8, Paul instructs church leaders to be “hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.” While this verse explicitly outlines qualifications for elders, its implications stretch far beyond. For Christian fundraisers, this verse serves as a calling and a guidepost.
The Ministry of Hospitality
The Greek word for hospitality, philoxenia, literally means “a friend to strangers.” In the ancient world, hospitality was not simply an option but a moral and spiritual duty. When Paul tells Titus that leaders must be hospitable, it reflects God’s heart for welcoming the outsider.
Christian fundraising embodies this same spirit. To invite someone to give is an act of hospitality:
We open the door to a shared vision.
We set the table with stories of impact and transformation.
We welcome the donor into a deeper relationship—not just with the organization but with God’s work in the world.
The late Henri Nouwen, a priest, theologian, and author, wrote:
“Fundraising is, first and foremost, a form of ministry; it is a way of announcing our vision and inviting other people into our mission.” When fundraisers practice hospitality, they don’t see donors as “targets” or “prospects.” Instead, they see them as partners in God’s work—guests at the table whom we honor, respect, and love.
Nouwen went on to say:
“When those with money and those who need money share a mission, we see a central sign of new life in the Spirit of Christ. We belong together in our work because Jesus has brought us together, and our fruitfulness depends on staying connected with him.”
Jesus: The Ultimate Host
Jesus’ ministry overflowed with hospitality. Whether breaking bread with sinners, feeding the multitudes, or washing His disciples’ feet, Jesus consistently welcomed people into relationships.
One of the most striking examples is His encounter with Zacchaeus in Luke 19. Jesus saw Zacchaeus, a tax collector and outsider, and said:
“Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today” (Luke 19:5, ESV).
What happened? Zacchaeus’ heart transformed. He responded with radical generosity, vowing to give half of his wealth to the poor and to repay anyone he cheated fourfold. Jesus’ simple act of hospitality turned a stranger into an advocate for God’s kingdom and a friend of the poor.
As fundraisers, we mirror Christ’s example when we extend genuine invitations. We welcome others into a place where they can see the impact of generosity and respond with joy.
Hospitality in Action: A Story from George Müller
George Müller, the 19th-century Christian leader who cared for over 10,000 orphans, understood the power of hospitality and faith in fundraising. Müller rarely made direct appeals for funds. Instead, he invited people to witness God’s work firsthand.
Müller would open his orphanages for visitors to see the children and hear stories of God’s provision. He welcomed guests as friends, not donors, trusting that God would stir their hearts to give. Time and again, people responded with extraordinary generosity.
Müller’s approach highlights a key truth: People give because they are invited into a story that reflects God’s heart. Hospitality—welcoming others to see and experience the mission—turns strangers into lifelong partners and advocates.
Practical Takeaways for Fundraisers
1. Be a Welcoming Host
Fundraising begins with an invitation. Whether you’re hosting a donor event, grabbing coffee with a supporter, or sharing stories through a letter, create opportunities where people feel seen, valued, and inspired.
“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares” (Hebrews 13:2, ESV).
2. Make Space for Relationships
Move beyond transactions. Treat donors as friends—people to listen to, pray for, and walk alongside. When you focus on relationships, fundraising becomes an opportunity for discipleship and partnership.
People give to people. They want to trust that their money is doing more good through your hands than theirs. Changing one life at a time.
3. Share Stories of Transformation
Like Jesus at Zacchaeus’ house or George Müller in his orphanages, share real, human stories that reflect the mission’s impact. Let donors see how their generosity can change lives.
“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16, ESV).
4. Welcome the Stranger
New supporters may not yet know your organization well. Treat every “stranger” as someone God has sent to join His work.
Invite them in, honor their generosity, and help them see the joy of giving (Acts 20:35).
Fundraising isn’t about “taking” from people.
Fundraising is about offering people a chance to participate in something beautiful, eternal, and life-changing. When we open the door, set the table, and share stories of transformation, we become instruments of God’s invitation to give generously.
Remember Paul’s words: “Rather, he must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must love what is good. He must live wisely and be just. He must live a devout and disciplined life” (Titus 1:8, NLT).
Fundraisers who love strangers, invite them in, and steward relationships with care will find that their work is more than just fundraising—it’s a ministry of hospitality that brings glory to God.
Who is one person you can invite to experience your mission this week?
Start with an open door and a warm conversation, and let God do the rest.
