• The Vision:

    Asking is not a transaction—it is an invitation to shared mission.

    The Ministry of Asking invites us to reconsider the deeper meaning of fundraising and philanthropy. Asking is not a transaction—it is an invitation to shared mission. At its heart, asking is not about securing resources but about inviting others to participate in work that serves the common good.

    Too often, fundraising is reduced to technique or transaction. The Ministry of Asking proposes something different: that asking can be a ministry of connection, trust, and accompaniment. When approached with integrity and care, an invitation to give becomes an opportunity to participate in work that brings hope and strengthens communities.

    Through reflection, writing, and conversation, this project explores the spiritual and relational dimensions of generosity—encouraging leaders to see generosity not simply as a resource to secure, but as a relationship to steward.

    Introducing a transformative exploration into the art of fundraising, where asking becomes an invitation to collaborate in meaningful endeavors. David Forster Sellery redefines generosity as a relational and spiritual practice. The Ministry of Asking: A New Perspective Book launch site with my custom logo: The Ministry of Asking explores the spiritual and relational dimensions of fundraising. Drawing on years of experience in nonprofit and philanthropic leadership, David Forster Sellery reframes asking not as persuasion or pressure, but as an act of invitation—inviting others to participate in meaningful work through generosity. Through reflections on freedom, listening, presence, and trust, the book offers a thoughtful vision of fundraising as a vocation rooted in relationship and gratitude.

  • Meet David Sellery

    Nonprofit Leader | Author | Advocate for The Ministry of Asking

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    David Sellery is a nonprofit executive, fundraiser, and writer whose work explores the spiritual foundations of generosity, leadership, and mission stewardship. He is the author of The Heart of Giving and its companion volume, The Ministry of Asking, which invites readers to see philanthropy not simply as fundraising, but as a ministry of relationship, trust, and shared purpose.

    Drawing on contemplative and Benedictine traditions, his writing reflects a lifelong commitment to faith, service, and the ethical practice of leadership. He lives in Connecticut with his wife, Jane.

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    The Invitation to Asking

    Generosity begins not with a transaction, but with an invitation to participate in something larger than ourselves.

    Shared Mission:

    Asking, at its best, is not about funding a need - it is about welcoming others into a shared mission of hope.

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    Reflections on stewardship, generosity, and the vocation of inviting others

    to participate in the mission of the Church.

    At The Ministry of Asking, we redefine the fundraising experience as an invitation to engage in meaningful work. Our approach emphasizes the relational aspects of giving, where each ask is an opportunity to foster connection and share purpose. We believe that fundraising can be a joyful interaction that honors the generosity of others. Invitational Fundraising What We Offer Book launch site with my custom logo: The Ministry of Asking explores the spiritual and relational dimensions of fundraising. Drawing on years of experience in nonprofit and philanthropic leadership, David Forster Sellery reframes asking not as persuasion or pressure, but as an act of invitation—inviting others to participate in meaningful work through generosity. Through reflections on freedom, listening, presence, and trust, the book offers a thoughtful vision of fundraising as a vocation rooted in relationship and gratitude.

    When Asking Becomes Ministry

    The Ministry of Asking reimagines fundraising as an invitation to shared mission. In this companion to The Heart of Giving, David Sellery explores the spiritual and relational dimensions of asking, presenting generosity not as a transaction

    Available on Amazon

    Kindle | Paperback

    We focus on the importance of listening and being present in every interaction. By truly understanding the needs and motivations of our supporters, we can create authentic relationships that enhance the fundraising experience. Our goal is to cultivate trust and appreciation, making generosity a natural response. Listening and Presence What We Offer Book launch site with my custom logo: The Ministry of Asking explores the spiritual and relational dimensions of fundraising. Drawing on years of experience in nonprofit and philanthropic leadership, David Forster Sellery reframes asking not as persuasion or pressure, but as an act of invitation—inviting others to participate in meaningful work through generosity. Through reflections on freedom, listening, presence, and trust, the book offers a thoughtful vision of fundraising as a vocation rooted in relationship and gratitude.

    A Mission-Driven Approach to Transformational Fundraising

    The Heart of Giving explores the deeper purpose of philanthropy and the role of leaders in inviting generosity with integrity. Drawing on years of experience in nonprofit and faith-based development, David Sellery presents fundraising as a relational practice rooted in mission, trust, and stewardship. Through reflection and practical insight, the book offers a framework for engaging donors not simply as supporters, but as partners in meaningful work that strengthens communities and advances the common good.

    Available on Amazon

    Kindle | Paperback

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