This is a brief explanation of the traveling and financial policy for my teaching ministry (NOTE: This is heavily adapted, almost word-for-word, from my colleague Jim Elliff, who gave me permission to use his statement as my own). I travel representing Christian Communicators Worldwide (CCW), which is officially Jim Elliff’s writing and speaking ministry (www.ccwtoday.org). Questions not answered in this statement of my policy may be answered by communicating directly with me at the following addresses:
Steve Burchett
201 Main Suite #3
Parkville, MO 64152
Phone: (816) 584-8600
E-mail: steve@christfellowshipkc.org
1) I speak at churches and conferences without compensation. I prearrange not to receive love offerings or honoraria for payment for my speaking, either for myself or the ministry. It is obvious that money comes to the ministry and me in other ways, but I do not intend to take such a payment for my services. I even ask that you not violate this principle by delaying the gift. The ministry team of CCW will assume that any monies sent following a meeting falls into a category other than compensation. It is important to say here that this policy is in no way an indication of lack of gratitude for your desire to give, but is a policy that I have gladly implemented since I travel on behalf of CCW.
2) I also ask that you not solicit money for me. It is CCW’s stated policy that all gifts will come to us in answer to prayer and not by solicitation, either from its workers or from the pastors and leaders in the churches and conferences where I speak. It has been an exciting journey for the ministry team of CCW to see how God can open the hearts of individuals and groups to contribute to the ongoing work of CCW without asking anyone but God.
3) We do ask that the church or organization, where possible, cover my travel and lodging. If this is an impossibility, please let us know and the ministry will gladly cover that expense as well. Usually, I let the church or ministry order the plane ticket. I normally bring someone on each trip. This means that travel costs, lodging, and meals for one additional person would be included in your expense (At times, I may be able to take my entire family, especially on an extended trip.). Please inform me if this is understood or if there are any challenges with this arrangement. I sometimes incur additional expenses that add to the trip cost, such as car expense to and from the airport (approximately $15), parking fees (if needed), checked baggage fees (depending on the airline), and light meals in route. Also, normally (unless God’s will is otherwise) I prefer to arrive back in Kansas City by 4 p.m. central time so that I can meet with my church at its weekly meeting which starts at 4:30 pm.
4) Occasionally a person might come to the pastor or leader on their own (unsolicited) desiring to give to me or to CCW. Since it is the ministry’s policy to receive unsolicited funds in answer to prayer, these gifts may be received. That gift may, in fact, be a very special answer to prayer! It should be noted that I will receive gifts personally only if they are designated as such. Christian Communicators Worldwide uses all undesignated checks for its operations and publications. It is helpful if either designated or undesignated checks be made out to CCW. It is permissible for these unsolicited gifts to be first given through the church or organization before being sent. A note indicating that the check contains unsolicited moneys is helpful. If you are able to indicate who provided the funds, then we can send a thank you.
5) Generally, it is best to arrange lodging in a non-smoking motel room, giving the best possibility for preparation and prayer. I realize that this is not always possible and am happy to stay in a home if that works out the best.
6) I enjoy fellowship around the table with pastors, leaders, and the people of the churches and conferences I attend. Normally, eating after the evening speaking engagement works best. However, this is not always possible. You may discuss this with me before I come.
The ministry team of CCW realizes that these financial and travel policies are somewhat unusual. We certainly do not expect that other conference speakers should follow this method, nor do we feel spiritually superior by doing it this way. Thank You!
