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 […]
People today have all sorts of financial pressures and priorities. So, why should they give to the church, rather than pay off student loans, buy a house or contribute to another charity? This is the question congregations should answer even before they ask for money, says Scott McKenzie of Horizons Stewardship. (Photo © shotsstudio – […]
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)
Here is an all-in-one resource to help your congregation embrace stewardship as a key practice for disciples. An 82-page guide from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops provides a comprehensive look at the theology and faith practices involved in stewarding your life as a disciple of Jesus and aligning ourselves with God’s purposes. (Photo […]
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)
Ministry is a tough gig! Demands are all around, and the “to do” list always exceeds the time it takes to accomplish them. What to do? From Fast Company, here are some strategies that can help you streamline your work, focus on what you do best, and accomplish more ministry! (Photo © Robert Kneschke – […]
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 […]
Orient your congregational leaders on the basics of a stewardship ministry with this succinct and insightful essay by Dan Charney, stewardship missioner for the Episcopal Diocese of Bethlehem, Pa. It covers lots of good ground and can help get your stewardship efforts in high gear. (Photo © Robert Kneschke – Fotolia.com)
