Dec. 31 marks the end of the financial year, so it’s important that your finance team close out the books properly. FreeChurchAccounting.com has a checklist to guide you. (Illustration: AJ Cann, Creative Commons)

61 Seminary Ridge, Gettysburg, PA 17325 (717) 334-6286
editor@stewardshipoflife.org
Dec. 31 marks the end of the financial year, so it’s important that your finance team close out the books properly. FreeChurchAccounting.com has a checklist to guide you. (Illustration: AJ Cann, Creative Commons)
Stewardship is about money, but it’s not only about money. This essay from the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia, Wash., helps put money in its proper place in an overall theology of abundance. (Photo: epSos .de, Creative Commons)
It’s important to have a well-written and always-followed policy for handling cash donations. Why? For those who handle finance, cash presents a strong temptation to embezzle. Smart Church Management explains.
Endowing one’s pledge is the ideal way for some church members to support their church long after their passing. It involves donating enough money to keep their pledge in perpetuity. The Episcopal Church Foundation.
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)
Whether your church has an endowment fund or is considering establishing one, here are some important considerations from the National Council of Nonprofits. (Photo: Pongsajapan, Creative Commons)
Inflation may be under control, but everybody is still looking to save some money. The intent there, but sometimes the ways we approach frugality backfire. Lifehacker.com reports. (Photo: Creative Commons)
Because we never know when a questionable or burdensome designated gift may come our way, having a gift acceptance policy in place is wise. The United Methodist Church has a wonderful sample. (Photo: Creative Commons)
Finance and tax laws can be complicated, and those who handle a congregation’s money need to be aware of the responsibility. Smartchurchmanagement.com lists three errors churches often make. (Photo: Tal Atlas, Creative Commons)
More than 2,300 Scripture passages talk about money, so obviously it’s something Christians should ponder carefully and faithfully. Callie Picardo, author of Money Talks: A Biblical Take on Earning, Saving, Spending, and Giving discusses. From the Lewis Center for Church Leadership.