Not all gifts are helpful to receive. A gift acceptance policy can help when a church has to refuse a gift that either does not fit the needs of the congregation or would create a financial or legal liability. The Episcopal Diocese of Washington offers this sample policy. (Photo by Deklofenak, via Big Stock Photo.)
For clarifying our thoughts and priorities, there’s nothing like a crisis. And Covid-19 is a biggie. August’s “Stewardship Toolkit” explores how we can learn the lessons to steward our church for the future. It has a newsletter article, Sunday bulletin “snippets” and resource links. (Photo: Michael Coghlan, Creative Commons)
What are the implications of being a disciple of Christ on our personal finance? Well, for starters, how we earn and use our money needs to align with our values. A Boston ministry is helping its members to see how their money, time and special abilities can be put to Godly purposes. From Faith & […]
Make the celebration of our nation’s birthday in July the occasion for God’s people to consider how well we’re stewarding our democracy. The free toolkit has a newsletter article, Sunday bulletin snippets and links to help your congregation explore the issue. We are entrusted with care for all the gifts has given us … including […]
An increasing number of church leaders are reporting a slow decline in church giving — both in total dollars and in the number of people giving. Over time, this decline could have a devastating effect on a church’s capacity to fund ministry. Here are three key areas to focus on to embrace God’s preferred future […]
Like a caterpillar emerging from a cocoon to new life as a butterfly, we can help our congregations awaken from Covid-19 to a reality that is deeper, richer and more beautiful. Explore stewarding a new community in this month’s free “Stewardship Toolkit” from SOLI editor Rob Blezard. (Photo: Alias 0591, Creative Commons)
“It is more blessed to give than to receive,” Jesus is quoted as saying in Acts 20:35, but why is that? There is tremendous power in the act of giving. Peter Marty explores this issue in The Christian Century. (Photo: Irish, Creative Commons)
Restrictions on travel and gathering have caused financial pains for churches across the land. When people stay away from church, usually so do their offerings. But creative, proactive and strategic steps can help keep you ministry well funded through the emergency. (This is a follow-up to Rob Blezard’s recent similar post.)
The COVID-19 crises spells financial trouble for many congregations that are suspending group worship and activities. It’s too often the case that people give ONLY when they are physically present in church. There are, however, steps congregational leaders can take to maintain robust ministry and keep donations flowing. (Photo: AJC1, Creative Commons)
The April edition of your free Stewardship Toolkit equips your congregation to explore Creation Care with some web resources and theme centered writings: An original newsletter article and RCL-based Sunday bulletin snippets. Good, consistent communication can enliven your church’s stewardship culture. From SOLI editor Rob Blezard. (Photo: Neil T, Creative Commons)
