Church leaders know the emphasis in congregational stewardship has changed dramatically in the last 20 years, from “making the budget” to “making disciples.” This is a good thing, says stewardship author and speaker Charles Lane, who puts the change into perspective and helps us anticipate the future of stewardship. From Luther Seminary’s Center for Stewardship […]
In too many congregations the “Stewardship Committee” is the last place anyone wants to serve because it’s earned a nasty reputation as the team that badgers, begs and coerces money from tight wallets. If this is the case in your congregation, why not “reboot” and “rename” the committee? (Photo: a.mina, Creative Commons)
Two strategies — seeking solitude with God and companionship in stewarding one’s vision — will help good intentions become realities in the new year, writes a spiritual director. Author and spiritual director Samuel Rahberg sees companionship–with God and colleagues/friends/mentors–as the way forward. (Photo: Alan Levine, Creative Commons)
Ask people what makes a good leader, and many solid qualities will be noted. The Center for Creative Leadership lists 10 important characteristics, plus another five qualities that are key. Not everyone possesses all 15 characteristics, but we can all learn to incorporate more of them in our work and life. There is always room to grow […]
What does it take to move your congregation into God’s amazing abundance and generosity? In this two-part essay, ELCA Pastor and stewardship leader Larry Strenge suggests three mindsets that we can cultivate to help our congregations go. Great ideas from Luther Seminary’s Center for Stewardship Leaders. (Oregon DOT, Creative Commons)
Bivocational ministry is increasingly the norm, and while it is a challenge, it also presents an opportunity to understand God’s work in us in new and exciting ways,” writes Jessica Young Brown, assistant professor of counseling and practical theology at Virginia Union University. “As we adjust to this new way of doing ministry, it’s helpful […]
Like the cardiac patient who winds up with a heart attack after ignoring both his deteriorating health and his doctor’s urgent advice, many congregations wait until there’s a crisis to start thinking seriously about stewardship and finance. You don’t want to be that congregation, writes Rob Blezard, SOLI web editor. (Photo: Aaron | Dan , […]
Asking disruptive question can help leadership teams navigate both challenges and opportunities toward growth and new vision, says leadership expert and coach Mac Lake. “There’s nothing like a great disruptive question to lead to great strides in development in those you’re equipping,” says Lake. Watch this short video to learn more. (Photo: marcoantoniotorres, Creative Commons)
When it comes to asking God’s people to give to your congregation, avoid any mention of the general budget. Why? Because people simply aren’t inspired by appeals simply to end the year in the black. In this brief video from Horizons Stewardship, Joe Park explains that its more effective to focus on mission plans. (Photo: […]
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.
