Each Church Letter Writing Tip builds off an acrostic based on the words “Church Letters”. At the bottom of each tip is a free sample church letter which may be used within your own church communications. This letter may not be posted on any competitive website.
Church Letter Writing Tip 9
Our ninth lesson in “13 Tips For Church Letter Writing Success” will build off the letter “T” in our Church Letters acrostic.
So far, we have looked at the following: C – Be Clear H – Be Hopeful U – Be Understanding R – Be Responsive C – Be Consistent H – Be Helpful
L – Be “Letter-Ready” E – Be Evangelistic
Today, we will take a look at:
T – Be Tactful
While it is important to know the need, it is even more important to respond to the need in a way the person will feel you are being truthful and sympathetic with concern for their feelings. Even in the case of discipline (when a face to face meeting may be more appropriate), the person will sense that you are loving them.
Love and a desire to restore and provide hope should be at the basis of all we do, and when it is tactfulness will be developed as a result of that love. Proverbs 25:11 “A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”
There is a world of difference between being “tacky” versus being “tactful”! Tactfulness shares the truth in love, yet the person on the receiving end will “hear” your love whether they are written or spoken.
Having tactfulness does not always mean that everything will go smoothly either, but at least we are at least doing our best to share the love of God in word and deed.
Below is your ninth complimentary letter which you may modify and use in your own church communications.
Death of a Child – Letter to Parents (Non-Churched)
(Note: Some churches send out Sympathy notes to families after reading of the death of loved ones in the obituaries. Letters such as this may be used thoughtfully and prayerfully).
I wanted to take a moment to send you this note on behalf of the congregation of First Christian Church to express our sympathy upon hearing of the loss of your child ____________.
The pain you are feeling at this time must be intense. Most likely, there are questions of “why” that are part of your thoughts, and even as you have shared with each other your thoughts and emotions.
While I may not be able to feel exactly what you are feeling right now, I want to assure you that I am ready and willing to listen to you, and share with you from my heart about the goodness of God.
I do not have any words that will “fix everything”, however, I do know that God has promised to be with us through every storm and trial of life, and that somehow you will get through this. Your comfort can come from the Comforter who is the Holy Spirt. The Bible says in: John 16:7 – Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
When Jesus was here on earth, He was limited by time and space, however when He sent the precious Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost He is now present at all times, and in all places, and is available to help you now, and in the days and months ahead.
I want you to know that during this very difficult time, we will be praying for you, and trusting that God will be your portion and help, as well as comfort your entire family.
If you already have a church family, I want to encourage you to draw strength from those friends around you. If you do not attend church anywhere at this time, then feel free to give me a call at anytime.
In Christ's Love,
Rev. John Doe
For more Sympathy Church Letters, click here.
Church Letter Writing Success 13 Part Mini Course by N. Lawrence of https://churchletters.org
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