Amid a time enormous cultural and economic changes, many of our churches struggle for mere survival, rather than how to be a light to a dark world. But a study by Interfaith Funders and the University of New Mexico show that many churches have found purpose, strength, hope and growth through Congregation-Based Community Organizing. This 24-page PDF introduces the concept. (Photo by Mark Parker, used by Creative Commons license)
Creativity is not just for a few select “artistic” types, but rather a universal human quality that can help bring your church or ministry to new realms of service and success. This article from ShareFaith debunks five misconceptions about creativity. (Photo by Laffy4k, used by Creative Commons license)
Lots of us busy pastors and church leaders become stuck because our “to do” lists grow impossibly long and our workdays seem impossibly short. From Entrepreneur magazine, here’s a simple idea that can help you manage your time, prioritize tasks and improve productivity! (Photo by Robert van der Steeg, used by Creative Commons license)
A new paper draws an intriguing conclusion to a question scholars have wrestled with for several decades: Why are Americans dropping out of church? One reason? They’re logging on to the Internet, Religion News Service reports. What are the implications for your congregation?
Churches are jumping on the online giving trend in record numbers. Most find it a safe and efficient way to help their members with consistent stewardship. Has your church started offering it yet? From Lifeway.com. (Photo by Jhaymesisviphotography, used by Creative Commons license
A recent study suggests that American Christians don’t give away more money because they lack trust in the church. In response, here are 36 questions your church should be able to answer about money. Good policy builds trust and creates an environment for generosity to flourish. (Photo by Mark Willylis, used by Creative Commons license)
No surprise that Pope Francis, who has renewed Christian concern for the poor, also has deep concern for the environment. Here, from Catholic Climate Covenant, is a wide assortment of Pope Francis’ teachings on the environment. (Photo by Semilla Luz, used by Creative Commons license)
Clear thinking and sound assumptions are musts in order to foster a climate of generosity in your congregation. This brief article from the United Methodist Church will help you head down the right road. (Photo by ThrasherDave, used by Creative Commons license. Thanks!)
The Bible gives a two-sided portrayal of wealth: It is good, but it can seduce us into sin. The solution, according to New Testament scholar Craig L. Blomberg, is to freely share it. In Christians in an Age of Wealth: A Biblical Theology of Stewardship (Zondervan), Blomberg, who teaches at Denver Seminary, argues that sacrificial giving is an essential part of good stewardship. He spoke with CT editor at large Rob Moll about our spending patterns and whether Christians are required to tithe. (Photo (c) Luke Peterson, used by Creative Commons license)
Four simple questions — incorporated into your everyday life — can give you “A Lens of Generosity” through which to recognize God at work all around you all the time. From the United Church of Canada, which includes a handy sheet to photocopy and help you spread the practice to everyone. (Photo © David2223, used […]
