Budgets are tight, donations are in decline. What’s the best strategy for a church to embrace? Well, it’s NOT fundraising, a stewardship drive or a capital campaign, says Karl Vaters of Christianity Today. (Photo: Bev8200, Creative Commons)



By Rob Blezard


By Rob Blezard

As the year’s end approaches, many churches worry, “Will we end the year in the black?” Columnist Karl Vaters suggests doing this one simple thing that both expresses gratitude and lets congregants know what the church needs to avoid an unintentional short fall. It’s not too late to get thank you letters in the mail. […]


By Rob Blezard


By Rob Blezard

Poor money management and an unwillingness to talk about money can put a serious damper on ministry, especially in small congregations. Karl Vaters gives three good reasons that money talk is essential in church culture. You’ll also find helpful links to other articles that he’s written. (Photo: Sultry, Creative Commons. Thanks!)


By Rob Blezard

With the possibilities for small-church budgeting being so flexible, are there guidelines that are universal? Writing in ChristianityToday.com, Karl Vaters says there are. He lists nine principles that can help leaders develop a budget that will serve the ministry needs and keep the church’s financial train on track. (Photo: taxcredits.net, Creative Commons)

Embracing stewardship through discipleship

The Stewardship of Life Institute (SOLI) is based at the Gettysburg, PA Campus of United Lutheran Seminary. Our mission is to serve stewardship in the ELCA through its seminaries.