Most planned gifts come in the form of bequests or beneficiary designations. If you’re hesitant to talk about this you are hardly alone, but your congregation might be missing out on some ministry-changing generosity! From the United Methodist Church. (Photo: David Morris, Commons License)
As the future unfolds, offerings will likely no longer be able to fully fund your congregation’s ministry. Increasingly, churches will have to rethink their ministries and adopt multiple income streams, says author and pastor Mark DeYmaz. Podcast from Wesley Seminary’s Lewis Center for Church leadership.
The COVID-19 pandemic will surely have a long-term impact on the financial life of congregations, regardless of their denomination, size or makeup. How can churches survive and even thrive in a post-pandemic landscape? Faith & Leadership asked 12 leaders to weigh in. (Photo: Joshua Smith, Creative Commons)
The coronavirus is challenging us to do ministry better, smarter, more creatively. This is especially true in stewardship because other interests and priorities may seem more pressing. From the United Methodist Church. (Photo: AJC1, Creative Commons)
The American Psychological Association offers these seven basic, yet vitally important, tips for leadership that maximizes trust and minimizes stress in challenging times. Notice that the first one begins with taking care of you–the leader. Remember that good stewardship begins with you. (Photo: AFGE, Creative Commons)
The Paycheck Protection Program grants loans to small businesses (including churches) to help keep workers employed during the COVID-19 emergency. The loans are potentially 100 percent forgivable. Excellent resources from the United Methodist Church. (Photo: Rain Love AMR, Creative Commons)
Church leaders know the emphasis in congregational stewardship has changed dramatically in the last 20 years, from “making the budget” to “making disciples.” This is a good thing, says stewardship author and speaker Charles Lane, who puts the change into perspective and helps us anticipate the future of stewardship. From Luther Seminary’s Center for Stewardship […]
In too many congregations the “Stewardship Committee” is the last place anyone wants to serve because it’s earned a nasty reputation as the team that badgers, begs and coerces money from tight wallets. If this is the case in your congregation, why not “reboot” and “rename” the committee? (Photo: a.mina, Creative Commons)
Two strategies — seeking solitude with God and companionship in stewarding one’s vision — will help good intentions become realities in the new year, writes a spiritual director. Author and spiritual director Samuel Rahberg sees companionship–with God and colleagues/friends/mentors–as the way forward. (Photo: Alan Levine, Creative Commons)
Ask people what makes a good leader, and many solid qualities will be noted. The Center for Creative Leadership lists 10 important characteristics, plus another five qualities that are key. Not everyone possesses all 15 characteristics, but we can all learn to incorporate more of them in our work and life. There is always room to grow […]
