FAQS
Here are the 10 most frequently asked questions about being a FFI Member Ministry:
1. What is the purpose behind Faith in the Family International?
To make it possible for men and women to direct a non-profit ministry without the difficulties of also managing the legal, financial, personnel and administrative duties required by law for operating as an IRS-approved 501(c)(3) non-profit Christian ministry.
2. What kind of ministries are you looking to adopt?
Ministries targeting missions, evangelism, discipleship, training, teaching, preaching, equipping or serving others in the Name of Jesus Christ. We are Evangelical in our convictions and focused on fulfilling the Great Commission.
3. Must I have previous ministry experience before applying?
No, previous ministry experience is not necessary, but previous life experience as a maturing Christian is a prerequisite. We will work with you to help develop your understanding of the principles and practices of effective Christian ministry as needed. However, our history shows that the FFI Member Ministry Program is optimal for someone who has been a missionary, pastor, or Christian leader/worker and wishes to launch a new or renewed outreach.
4. How long does it take to be approved once I submit my Member Ministry Application?
The average time is three days or less for an applicant who comes to FFI by personal referral from our long-established network of ministry relationships. Those with no previous connection take a bit longer due to the time needed for background and reference checks.
5. Does my ministry have to be my full-time vocation?
No. Many of our past and current ministry programs are led by part-time or bi-vocational directors. The incubation process of being under FFI allows you time to grow into full-time status, if led to do so. On the other hand, many full-time Christian leaders who come to us from other organizations to start a new ministry find they are able to easily and quickly make the transition.
6. If I receive compensation from my ministry, am I self-employed?
If you receive a salary and/or benefits from your ministry (whether full or part-time), you are an employee of FFI. As such, all your personnel and payroll issues (withholding, W-2's, etc.) are handled by our office. If you receive occasional compensation or a daily stipend from your ministry, you will be issued a Form 1099-MISC at the end of the calendar year. Each situation is individually reviewed.
7. Do I form my own Board of Directors as a Member Ministry of FFI?
No. Since you are operating under the 501(c)(3) auspice of FFI, the FFI Board of Directors is your Board of Directors. You are, however, required to put together a Ministry Accountability Team or Advisory Board for your ministry program. Though they have no legal authority over your ministry, they are the men and women who will be praying for and with you, helping you to plan your outreach and supporting you.
8. Do donors make out their contribution checks to FFI?
Donors make their contributions in the name of your ministry since it is your program they are supporting. They will receive a tax receipt from FFI for every gift they give with the name of your ministry program designated on the receipt.
9. What do I get for my 10% Ministry Service Fee?
You receive the benefit of being non-profit without having to apply to the IRS and maintain that status. You receive a host of legal, financial, and administrative services. You receive the benefit of the experience and counsel of the FFI leadership team. That's a lot - for a little.
10. What if I decide to leave FFI? What happens to the funds I have in my account?
If you decide you need to dissolve your relationship with FFI, you may do so without delay or penalty. We enter into our relationship and end our relationship with you in the same way - with open hands. Any funds remaining in your ministry account at the time of your departure will be, at your discretion: (1) transferred into FFI general operating funds (2) donated to a like-minded 501(c)(3) organization or (3) deeded to a new non-profit ministry organization that you form once you have received a letter of determination from the IRS. This is highly unusual - most other host organizations would not do this for you.
Bonus Question: Why do you call yourself Faith in the Family International?
We started out in 1991 as a speaking/teaching/training organization, primarily focused on parent/teen issues. As God enlarged our influence we began to assist other Christian leaders in developing their ministries. In this we promote personal and corporate growth in the family of God and the biblical institution of the family – how do we do this? Through a “family” of ministries that are building and serving the Kingdom of God.