Potholes can do some serious damage to cars, and potholes in your congregation’s stewardship program can also wreak havoc. Author Timothy Siburg, writing for Ministry Matters, identifies eight stewardship potholes that leaders need to be on the lookout for. Any one of the eight has the potential to derail your efforts. Click the title to be redirected to the article. (Photo: D Dohler, Creative Commons)
Do you hear people complain that the church talks about money too much? It’s just not true. In fact, the church does not talk about money enough — not nearly as much as Jesus did, says this Episcopalian blogger. (Photo: Andrew Magill, Creative Commons)
Is American giving on cruise control? While overall giving has mushroomed since the 1970s, it has been driven primarily by growing incomes, not by donors deciding to give a larger share of income. As a share of GDP, charitable giving has rarely strayed far from 2 percent over the past four decades—despite the huge growth in the number of charities and fundraisers and periodic crusades to encourage greater giving. (Photo by margonaut, used by Creative Commons license)
No. 1: “The first place to look for money is in the heart, not the wallet.” This resource explains why, and then goes on to explain SIX more truths! It’s a great, handy resource from the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas. (Photo by Varkle69, used by creative Commons license – Thanks!)
Here’s a pretty sweet assortment of materials to get a congregation going in a stewardship program – from pledge cards to brochures. The Evangelical Covenant Church has put this together for its congregations, but this starter kit could provide wonderful inspiration and helpful guidance for any church to develop its own program.
Here’s a free, seven-part curriculum for leaders who want to plumb the depths of their congregation’s financial soul.
Christian Smith and Hilary Davidson have spent the past three years leading a study at the University of Notre Dame entitled “The Science of Generosity Initiative.” Click here to read their findings about the paradoxical benefits of generosity and the sociological science behind them. (Photo: Jason Empey. Thanks!)
Some of the brightest minds of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America have collaborated for this collection of essays exploring “How Much is Enough: A Deeper Look at Stewardship in an Age of Abundance.” Each author looks at one aspect of what it means to be a well-formed stewardship leader — the basic competencies needed.
Lucky you! For the Episcopal Church has assembled some dandy resources to help you get your ministry off the ground and flying high! Everything from building a committee to financial commitment programs that work. (Photo by Konephoto, via bigstockphoto.com.)
An estate plan is a significant resource for a faithful Christian steward, and estate planning gives the church a tremendous opportunity to help educate parishioners about the key components of a Christian estate plan. Here are some ways to get started. (Photo by MonkeyBusinessImages, via Bigstockphoto.com.)
