Most congregational leaders would rather do anything besides asking congregants for money. So when they DO ask, their skittishness can lead to mistakes and missteps that can be counterproductive. Here, from SOLI content editor Rob Blezard, are tips for making an ask. (Photo: Iqoncept, via bigstockphoto.com)
To get an idea of where God’s people are financially, Alyssa Quart’s well-researched book can provide insight. In his review of “Squeezed: Why Our Families Can’t Afford America,” Adam Copeland of Luther Seminary says this is a must-read for church stewardship leaders to understand the stark realities facing many of God’s people. (Photo: Stuart Pilbrow, […]
Many congregations start serving their communities by looking at how much they lack, which is fine, but never unlocks the potential that exists. Asset-Based Community Development looks at what strengths or skills the community has to offer. An Indianapolis pastor tells how the ABCD approach turned around his church. (Photo: Wonder Woman0731, Creative Commons)
Christmas Eve services are generally the most attended of the year. Wouldn’t it be great of some of those folks came back (at other times besides Easter, that is!). This helpful article from The Effective Church Group provides some smashing advice to encouraging return visitors. (Photo: Pascal Volk, Creative Commons)
Religious leaders have the responsibility (and opportunity!) to invite people of faith into a soul-deep conversation about money and, perhaps more importantly, about worth, writes Melissa Spas of the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. She serves up good food for thought in this season of consumerism. (Photo: Jim Robinson, Creative Commons)
Part of good leadership is the ability to see compassionately. Effective leaders who desire to build bridges and bring people together learn to be present, attentive, and aware of those around them. Read this excerpt adapted from C. Paul Schroeder’s book Practice Makes Purpose: Six Spiritual Practices That will Change Your Life and Transform Your Community.
OK, so maybe the fall got away from you and you didn’t have time to plan a stewardship emphasis? Here are three simple program ideas that you can put into action before the year’s end. Any of them will help keep stewardship front and center. From Rob Blezard, web content editor for Stewardship of Life […]
“If you’re going to be effective in ministry, you have to become comfortable talking about money. Few church leaders I know are,” writes church consultant Carey Nieuwhof. Those who don’t address money are generally leading their congregations to bankruptcy. Nieuwhof offers seven good ideas. (Photo: www.inkmedia.eu, Creative Commons)
Many church leaders avoid talking about stewardship, yet they can greatly influence the understanding of money and stewardship in the life of a congregation. Generous giving is a spiritual gift that requires cultivation and growth, like any aspect of one’s Christian formation. Consultant David S. Bell explains. (Photo: Grublee, via Bigstockphoto.com)
Indecisiveness can cause stress for you, your staff, and even your congregation. It is a form of double-mindedness, and James 1:8 says it leads to instability, writes Rick Warren of Saddleback Church, who shares four steps he uses when he confronts indecision. (Tsahi Levent-Levi, Creative Commons)
