Wise leaders know that change in a congregation can be incredibly hard, requiring amazing amounts of time and energy. But they also know that constant change is necessary and worth the expense. Here are some principles for how to lead your congregation through healthy change. From pastor.com. (Photo by Phil Whitehouse, used by Creative Commons […]
What is the secret to creating a culture of generosity in my church? Why does stewardship come so easy to some congregations but is so hard in mine? Good questions, that this resource from the United Methodist Church answers in a simple, sweeping, easy-to-understand concept.
A “Money Autobiography” assists you in discovering your relationship to money. In writing a money autobiography, some discover that money controls them, while others discover that they control money. Be sure to check out “Money Autobiography” questions. From the Lewis Center for Church Leadership.
Repenting from what it called the “sin” of fossil fuel, Union Seminary divested itself of stocks in energy companies. “Climate change poses a catastrophic threat. As stewards of God’s creation, we simply must act to stop this sin,” commented Union president Serene Jones. From Religion News Service. (Photo by Grant Rambojan, used by Creative Commons […]
Peter Leithart’s new book, titled simply Gratitude: An Intellectual History, takes a sweeping look at gift-giving from ancient to modern times, with particular emphasis on how Christ changed — and continues to influence — the culture and customs surround gifts. Review from Christianitytoday.com. (Photo by Tiger Girl, used by Creative Commons license)
In too many churches, money is the No. 1 taboo topic, but it’s avoided only at the congregation’s financial peril. Here is a handy guide for any congregation that wants to do better — a national publication dedicated almost entirely to money. Articles include, “Components of a Stewardship Program,” “Opening New Doors of Giving” and “Growing Generous People.” (Photo by Bev8200, used by Creative Commons license)
How is your congregation doing in its approach to stewardship? This handy diagnostic checklist will help you figure out the things you’re doing right and the things you need to improve. From the United Church of Canada. (Illustration by AJ Cann, used by Creative Commons license)
How many pastors have had to resign in disgrace? Too many. Knowing how to set — and keep! — good boundaries can go a long way toward keeping a ministry trouble- and accusation-free! From ChurchLeaders.com. (Photo by Sharron Blezard)
:Just Eating? Practicing Our Faith at the Table” is a seven-session curriculum for congregations that call us to integrate the commitments and practices of our faith into the way we eat. The study uses scripture, prayer and stories from the local and global community to explore five key aspects of our relationship with food. (Photo by JBloom, used by Creative Commons license.)
Despite popular usage, “stewardship” means much more than simply giving time, talent, and treasure. Stewardship demands a way of life that encourages virtue and bears the fruit of solidarity among peoples, says this insightful essay on the Catholic Education Resource Center website. (Photo by Martin Workman, via BigStockPhoto.com)
