Honest conversation about money is a huge taboo in many congregations, a taboo harms both the financial life and the faith life of the congregation. As the spiritual leader, the pastor must shatter the “conspiracy of silence” by talking about money and leading in stewardship. Challenging essay by stewardship author and pastor Charles Lane.
Everybody knows we need to get enough sleep, but who knows exactly why? WebMD has put together a page with links to a number of resources on the health benefits of sleep, the reasons why many people sleep poorly and what we can do about it. Something to answer all of your sleep concerns and […]
How do we raise generous children in a world of materialism and consumption? “The goal is to make the process of giving a natural part of your children’s lives,” says educator Deb Cohen. Check out her ideas for parents and other adults. (Photo: The Museum of the Future, Creative Commons)
Perfect for a fall campaign in Year C, here is Embrace Generosity is complete stewardship emphasis guide for your congregation — an RCL-based five-week program of study, sermons, worship guides, handouts and more. Click here for an Word copy that will enable you to cut and paste for your own needs. (Photo: Gayle Nicholson, […]
How often do you thank those who give to your church? For most congregations the answer is, “Not nearly often enough!” It’s too bad, because saying thank you is one of the simplest and most effective ways to cultivate a climate of generosity. Check out these five creative suggestions! (Photo: Marco Verch Professional Photographer and […]
Want to help scientists understand climate change? Here’s a simple way to involve your faith community as citizen scientists in this Smithsonian Institution crowd-sourcing project studying Ginkgo trees to map climate over time. Might be a good project for your congregation’s youth! (Photo: Skyseeker, Creative Commons)
Is your current building way too old, way too big and way too expensive for your current ministry? Read about an enormous congregation that did the unthinkable — reduce its footprint, getting rid of memory-rich square footage for the sake of future ministry. From Faith and Leadership. (Photo: Luke Peterson, Creative Commons)
They say showing, as opposed to explaining, is the better way to teach. Here is a great step-by-step plan to start an environmental stewardship ministry in your congregation. The Episcopal Ecological Network has you covered with this adaptable PDF starter kit for reflection, education, and action. (Photo: Jamie, Creative Commons)
The regular practice of meditation can not only bring you closer to God and improve your faith and prayer life, it also improves overall wellness and health, scientists affirm. Lower blood pressure, greater emotional intelligence, a longer attention span and less anxiety are only some of the benefits, says healthline. (Photo: lel4nd, Creative Commons)
Your monthly “Stewardship Toolbox” is here, with weekly Sunday bulletin blurbs based on the Lectionary, an original newsletter article and links to resources — all to aid your stewardship communication and ministry. This month’s theme: “Stewardship of your intelligence and gifts.” (Photo: Per Erik Strandberg, Creative Commons)
