More time spent outdoors — and less in front of a screen — improves mental health in youth. Researchers found that kids who spend lots of time on digital devices are more likely to have emotional problems and show signs of aggression and ADHD compared to kids who played outside. (Photo: Woodley wonderworks, Creative Commons)
Tithing — giving 10 percent to God — seems so “Old Testament” to many of today’s Christians that they honestly wonder what followers of Jesus are supposed to think and do about it. This excellent article from Crosswalk.com explores the issue in a faithful manner. (Photo: thitimontoyai22 – Fotolia.com )
In many churches money talk is a leader’s “third rail” — touch it and you die! It doesn’t have to be that way. Lovett Weems of the Lewis Center for Church Leadership offers two principles that, applied consistently over time, can help make it easier to talk about money in church. (Photo: Rhys A., Creative […]
As the pandemic drags on, leaders ask, “How in the world are we supposed to do a stewardship emphasis when we can hardly gather in-person for worship?” Every congregation has its own priorities, but ELCA pastor and author Charles Lane, offers three things to consider. (Photo: Jerrybuckel, Creative Commons)
In our materialistic culture “abundant living” can get confused with the “extravagant living.” When we start thinking of “abundance” in non-monetary terms, a whole new vision opens up for what it means to have enough. From the Episcopal Church Foundation. (Photo: OER Training, Creative Commons)
There’s no need to throw away plastic containers and bags for fear of COVID-19 contamination. They can be washed and reused safely, says a report from Greenpeace that refutes the plastics industry’s assertion that plastic products be used only once. From treehugger.com. (Photo: Twentyfour Students, Creative Commons)
Especially in times when congregants need authoritative health care information, a parish nurse can help provide the expertise to keep people safe and healthy. The duties vary by context, but parish nurses may educate, advise, advocate and provide screenings. This article from National Caregivers Library explains. (Photo: Joshua Smith, Creative Commons)
Acts 2 gives us a wonderful view of what it means to be a community of Christians. This snapshot of the early church offers a template for authentic community that churches should seek to follow. Pastor and author Mike Ayers finds six rich insights to explore. How do these relate to your life and community? […]
The pandemic has turned our churches upside down, and it’s impossible to predict the short- and long-term financial stewardship implications. But it is clear that stewardship and generosity ministry must adapt and change. Luther Seminary’s stewardship newsletter offers some ideas. (Photo: Ged Carroll, Creative Commons)
Most budget presentations leave parishioners drowsy and bored, but there’s a better way. A narrative budget helps folks connect the congregation’s finances with the mission that we are accomplishing in the world. The Wisconsin United Methodist Foundation has a nice package of resources to get you started. (Photo: Taxcredit, Creative Commons)
