Stewardship isn’t just about keeping the lights on; it’s about how we spend our limited resources to reach people.

We audited the tech stack of 50 small to medium Indian churches (50-300 members). The results were shocking. Most were paying for tools they didn’t need, while missing the ones they did.

Here are the top 3 “money pits”:

1. The “Custom App” Trap

Cost: ₹5 Lakhs - ₹15 Lakhs upfront + ₹20k/month maintenance.

We saw churches with 100 members paying distinct software agencies to build a “custom app.”

  • The Reality: 6 months later, the app is broken because iOS updated and the church can’t afford the developer fees to fix it.
  • The Fix: Use a SaaS platform (like Sanctuary Stack) or just stick to a good website. Do not build custom software unless you have a full-time engineering team.

2. Bulk Messaging (SMS & Business API)

Cost: ₹10,000 - ₹15,000 per month.

Many churches upgrade to the “WhatsApp Business API” thinking it will solve communication.

  • The Reality: It costs a fortune (₹15k/month for a 250-member church). Messages often get auto-categorized as “Marketing” and hidden. Plus, you need Facebook’s approval for every template, and delivery isn’t even guaranteed.
  • The Fix: Push Notifications (via an app) are free, instant, and don’t need Mark Zuckerberg’s permission.

3. Fragmented Subscriptions

Cost: ₹2,000/month (Zoom) + ₹1,500/month (Mailchimp) + ₹1,000/month (Accounting).

  • The Reality: You are paying for 5 different tools that don’t talk to each other. Your member data is scattered.
  • The Fix: Consolidate. Find an “All-in-One” tool that handles specific church needs.

💡 The Golden Rule of Church Tech

If a tool costs more than ₹50 per member/month and doesn't directly help you disciple them, cut it.

Stop paying for tools that create more work. Start investing in systems that create more disciples.