I’m a speaker, writer, and stewardship coach, but most of all a disciple.
Speaking is my passion
I am a bridge builder: I explain Christianity to fundraisers and fundraising to Christians. I enjoy speaking at small churches and big conferences alike. I hear “accessible” and “engaging” often, which pleases me because I strive to be interactive.
If you’re a fundraiser, you might have met me at a conference like AFP ICON, CAGP or CCAE. I belong to an Abrahamic (Jewish, Christian, Muslim) trio of faith-based fundraisers and we’ll be speaking at both AFP ICON in Toronto and CAGP in Ottawa in 2024.
If you’re Anglican, Baptist, Free Methodist, Lutheran, Mennonite, Presbyterian, Salvation Army or United (not an exhaustive list!), we might have met also - either in an online webinar or at a conference.
Here’s one of my favourite webinars from 2023: a webinar with Church History Professor Stuart Macdonald from Knox College in Toronto. Our topic was Falling Faster: Generosity and the Future of the Church. Click to see the Youtube webinar recording.
Looking for a speaker? There’s a slideshow featuring the title slides of various presentations at the bottom of this page. I’m always open to new topics! This video explains the Circle of Grace model of giving, as explained in the Church page of my website.
What makes me stand out
“Lori is a natural and gifted speaker. Her passion for the church, and for nurturing generosity within it, is truly inspiring and much needed in the church today.”
—GTA church treasurer
I enjoy public speaking, from workshops and webinars to sermons. People tell me I’m enthusiastic and passionate. I like telling stories and hearing new ones in response.
I welcome being peppered with questions! My sessions are interactive, as that’s how we learn best - plus it’s more fun for me as well. I make jokes. If I think your audience would enjoy geeking out on church giving data, I present data. Mostly I tell stories - stories about toddlers, horses, and cows. About learning to give at the kitchen table when dad got paid in cash.
What makes me stand out? I understand not just fundraising but Christian fundraising really well:
Extensive research into Christian giving in Canada
Experience in charities big and small
Theological training with a focus on church and money
I know the giving numbers and the generational trends, and I have practical suggestions for your group right now, including topics like these:
Major gifts and the church
Jesus talks about money; we can too
Celebrating the Offering as an act of worship
Saying Thank You
Narrative budgeting - Sharing your story in a way that inspires:
Building Generous Congregations
Best Practices for Giving in Churches
Thank you letters with annual receipts
Christian Giving: Navigating turbulent times of declining trust
What the Apostle Paul taught me about church and money
Leaving a legacy to your church: Talking about bequests
Past Speaking Engagements
