Why do some churches seem to struggle financially year after year, while other congregations of similar size and circumstance have all the resources they need? It could be that the well-resourced congregations understand the primary reasons why people give their time, talent and treasure, and they organize and focus their efforts accordingly. This article from MinistryMatters explains. (Photo by Ignorant Walking, used by Creative Commons license.)
The gift planning strategy of a local congregation should be geared to encouraging people to give and to make it easier for them to do so. Honor gifts (donated in the name of living people) and memorial gifts (donated in the name of the deceased) are wonderful vehicles for giving, but many churches fail to make the most of them by having no set policies or sloppy policies on how to handle them. Here are some practical tips. (Photo: Bill McChesney, Creative Commons)
There’s a real art to writing an effective stewardship letter, and most people are not trained in it. This workshop outline from ELCA Stewardship Resources will help your team to craft letters that will help give you the results you want.
Wondering how to tackle even the basics of planned giving to ensure your congregation’s future ministry and mission? Check out this informative webinar from the Episcopal Church Foundation!
Look closely and you’ll find all sorts of approaches that pastors take regarding money. Some are completely hands-on, while others run from the issue completely. But here are some approaches that a church leader would be wise to avoid. From Lifeway.com. (Photo: Tal Atlas, Creative Commons)
Recently a Senior Pastor friend of mine attempting to lead his church of 180 in growth asked if I had any thoughts I could share with his governing board about crafting an effective budget for their church. I have plenty. Many churches are stuck because they look at budgeting all the wrong way. Here are some ideas. (Photo: Taxcredits.net, Creative Commons)
When it comes to commitment program models, there are four basic ones that you can adapt for your congregation’s use. This handy article describes the models, as well as the pros and cons of each one. From the Anglican Church in Canada. (Photo: Chris Potter, Creative Commons)
Your congregation can develop a culture of stewardship and generosity — all it takes is time and effort (but doesn’t everything?). Here, from the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vancouver, are Four Pillars of Stewardship. Solid, simple, straightforward advice. Now get to work.
How is your congregation doing on stewardship? More importantly, how can you improve? This simple self-assessment from the United Church of Canada can help you identify strengths, weaknesses and areas for future growth. (Photo by Alberto G.: Creative Commons)
A lot of things can happen when a church experiences a money crunch, most of them bad. Can anything good come from a financial crisis? It depends on how you handle it. Good advice from ChurchLeaders.com. (Photo: Kat, Creative Commons)
