As congregations look to establish long-term financial stability in an era of decreasing Sunday offerings, a ministry of legacy giving makes sense. Here are one consultant’s top ten reasons why. From the Presbyterian Endowment. (Photo: Ken Mayers, Creative Commons)
It is important to say thank you. Everyone enjoys having a gift given or an effort made acknowledged and remembered. An attitude of gratitude matters. The truth is that we are not always intentional about expressing our appreciation to others and this is especially true at church. From the Center for Faith & Giving. (Photo […]
There’s nothing wrong with fundraising in your church when you want to pay for a special event, item or project. The Church of the Brethren put some great ideas out there for its congregations to raise money for the national youth trip. How many would work in your church? (Photo by Rona Proudfoot, used by […]
Preaching about money is often among a pastor’s least favorite things to do, especially in our money-soaked culture where people take their finances very personally. But good doctrine and sound practice demand that we talk about finance. From Pastors.com.
Churches today are seeking newer and easier ways to set up giving to benefit their congregations. Online giving has its own set of complexities and options, but is becoming easier all the time. Giving kiosks are popular. New options for online giving are being developed all the time. Here is a sampling of the most popular innovations. (Photo by Creativity 103, used by Creative Commons license)
Giving strictly financial information in quarterly reports is a wasted opportunity, says stewardship author J. Clif Christopher, who suggests ways to give donors some reasons to keep on giving. (Photo by Lenore Edman, used by Creative Commons license)
There are pastors for administration, family and youth ministry, visitation, and outreach. Maybe it’s time to add stewardship pastors to the mix. Check out this article by William Vanderbloeme. You’ll even find a link to a job description. (Photo: Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Creative Commons)
Don’t undervalue the power of the letter that accompanies your annual stewardship campaign materials. It’s the invitation your congregation extends for folks to participate in its exciting ministries, a case statement for why their time, talent and treasure are worthy of investing. This resource explains some of the key elements of a good stewardship letter and provides some wonderful examples. Good luck! (Photo by Beate Meier, used by Creative Commons license)
Look no further for inspiration for this fall’s campaign pledge cards, cover letter, follow-up, bulletin inserts, etc. The Evangelical Covenant Church’s Stewardship Starter Kit provides good examples that you can adapt for your congregation.
Struggling with what to do about stewardship and how to do it? Here is a free 34-page booklet from the United Methodist Church that will get you on your way! It covers the nuts and bolts of establishing a congregational stewardship team and making plans.
