December 31 marks the end of the calendar year AND the budget year for most churches. But is that the most advantageous arrangement? Could it be better to set the beginning and end point of the budget year at another point? Church Law & Tax explores the pros and cons. (Photo: PublicDomainPictures)
Matthew’s story of the Magi’s visit to the Christ child in Bethlehem remains both beloved and mysterious to Christians. This lesson plan from Youth Catholic provides insight into how to bring out all its important teachings. (Photo: Frank Cone via Pexels)
Weighing a few extra pounds following the holidays? You’re not alone! But getting back to – and maintaining – a healthy weight requires not quick-fix solutions but discipline and long-term thinking. This article from the Mayo Clinic explores. ((Photo: Andres Ayrton via Pexels)
RCL reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, Year C. Dec. 22, 2024. The meeting between Mary and Elizabeth stays with us not only because of its uniqueness – two women pregnant with miracle babies – but also because it reveals much about the priorities of God that their sons will bring to birth. Deacon Timothy Siburg explores. (Photo: Garon Piceli, via Pexels)
An old truism states, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” With that in mind, it may be a good idea to sketch out some ideas, goals and strategies that your congregation wants to achieve in the next year. Smart Church Management can get you started. (Photo: Creative Commons)
The dramatic quote above is from the United Nations report predicting a continuing rise in plastic production. Humans now yearly create 57 million tons of plastic waste that winds up in waterways and landfills. The Associated Press reports. (Photo: Bo Eide, Creative Commons)
Not everybody can afford to tithe, but plenty of Christians who could simply don’t. The newsletter article in the January Stewardship Toolkit urges God’s people to commit to tithing. In the kit you’ll also find RCL-based snippets for the Sunday Bulletin. (Photo: Ken, Creative Commons)
RCL reflection for the Third Sunday of Advent, Year C. December 15, 2024. The Advent themes of Joy, preparation and transformation are front and center in this week’s epistle and gospel readings. They call for us to steward our lives of discipleship wisely and responsibly. The Rev. Micah Krey explores in his debut reflection. (Photo: Creative Commons)
Do a deep dive on Christmas themes with a free Bible-study bundle from Christianity Today. The five-part series includes leader and participant guides and includes sessions about Jesus, Mary, Joseph, Shepherds and angels. Usual cost $19.95, but CT offering at no cost. (Photo: Creative Commons)
No time in the church year besides Christmas presents a better opportunity for invitation and outreach. Is your congregation ready? This article from Crosswalk.com offers commonsense advice for making the most of Christmas. (Photo: Son of Groucho, Creative Commons)
