Because of the coronavirus, pollution levels have been dropping worldwide. This might be the first time since the beginning of the Industrial Age that Earth is finally getting a break from the relentless activity and growth of human industrial production, writes environmental theologian Leah D. Schade. (Photo: NASA, public domain)
A section of the U.S. Government’s Coronavirus Relief Package would grant loans to small businesses (including churches) to help keep workers employed during this emergency. Under relatively simple conditions, the loans are 100 percent forgivable (yes, they do not have to be repaid). Excellent package of materials and links from the United Methodist Church. (Photo: […]
Members of faith communities are already feeling the financial pinch from the disruptions caused by responses to COVID-19. Providing access to resources that outline where and how to get help and offering safe digital space to talk can help lessen anxiety and fears. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is a great place to start. (Photo: […]
Sure, there’s a virus that’s turning life (and church) upside down. But that’s no excuse to stop teaching about generosity and stewardship. Joe Park of of Horizons Stewardship gives some excellent advice and some easy-to-communicate reasons. Check it out! (Photo: Stuart Pilbrow, Creative Commons)
We still want to be good stewards of our health even as we practice physical and social distancing. How much is enough exercise right now? What is safe? How much is too much? These two sports scientists have answers and suggestions for you. (Photo: Fit Approach, Creative Commons)
Ministry is hard under any circumstances, but the current emergency is ramping up stress, big time. These 10 guidelines for pastoral care, published in Christian Century this month, offer sound advice to vocational church workers. Pay particular attention to #10. Please take care of you, too! (Photo: © Christy Thompson – Fotolia.com)
Some Christians may adopt a vegan diet during Lent as a spiritual discipline, but given the environmental harm posed by a meat-based diet, permanently fasting from food made from animals could be a way to care for God’s creation. Healthy for the body AND healthy for the planet! Excellent analysis and links from Christianity Today.
The Barnabas Foundation offers a series “Seven Habits of a Highly Effective Steward.” The entire series is free to download in MS Word. While there’s not a lot of copy to read, there are excellent resources listed, lots of room to adapt for context, and plenty of conversation starters. You will find this a compelling […]
The federal Centers for Disease Control has released this comprehensive guide to help houses of worship and other community organizations get ready for an outbreak of coronavirus. Put together an emergency plan BEFORE the virus reaches your area. Now that’s smart. (Photo: Arlington County, Creative Commons)
This spring, while you’re cleaning the winter cobwebs and clutter from your home, why not give the same treatment to your bank account and wallet? A “spending cleanse’ can help you recognize and put a halt to bad spending habits. From ShareSaveSpend.com. (Photo: TaxRebate.org.uk, Creative Commons)
