Usually we call it "raising funds". But in all reality it is not about funds, but about long-term friendships that need to be cultivated.

When we change our focus from money that needs to be raised to friends that need to be found -- than the real art develops.

In ministry - whatever you do and wherever you serve - only the top of the iceberg is "public performance". Without the permanent recruiting and cultivating of friendship relations, of friends who believe in what you are doing, the top would have no solid foundation.

The idea that the financing process of a ministry is some uncomfortable, sometimes even humiliating attachment to the "real thing", is misleading.

Both parts belong together and each part depends on the other.

I know people "on the field" who skype at least one hour daily with some of their friends.

By micro-blogging daily you strengthen your friendship relations.

Your friends experience you as you go through daily challenges -- like they do.

"A break 10 minutes in to a 1hr session works brilliantly - surprisingly better then, than half-way through the session or later." says Ned Potter http://goo.gl/SgDnJH .

Have your smartphone always at hand. Ask kindly whether you are allowed to make a picture for your friends. Most good willing people will agree.

Camps, special weekends, conferences, you name it...

If you need shoes, tell your friends which size you have. If you need a car, tell them exactly which car you need and what for.