The church formerly led by author and preacher Max Lucado has decided to give away $100 to every member, requesting that they bless others by "paying it forward".

Oak Hills Church handed out 762 cash-filled envelopes between services on Sunday, with those not in need urged to find innovative ways to bless their community. 

“If you are in need, then this is for you. But if that’s not you, then this is for you to pay it forward and to bless somebody else that only you could possibly know about,” lead pastor Travis Eades explained. 

“You know needs that we will never know, and you can reach people that we would never be able to reach." 

An additional sixty families who were not in attendance on Sunday are due to pick up their $100 bills this week. 

Oak Hills Church is one of San Antonio’s biggest congregations, with an 1,800-seat sanctuary. The church also boasts a significant contingent who attend virtually from home.

Lucado stepped down from his lead role at the church in 2007 citing health concerns - he has since taken up a more informal role that involves writing and preaching.