Check out the new study Connected to Give: Faith Communities, published by Jumpstart and Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. This groundbreaking research is important reading for anyone interested in stewardship and giving in faith communities. Click here for more information. (Photo: , Creative Commons)
Check out this latest edition of the ECF Vital Posts e-newsletter. It’s chock-full of good ideas and thoughtful reflections to help you move from Thanksgiving into Advent. (Photo: lejoe, Creative Commons)
Lectionary Reflection for the 26th Sunday after Pentecost November 17, 2013 Brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right. 2 Thessalonians 3:13 Doing the right thing can be tough–tough to discern, tough to put into practice, and tough practice consistently. Staying the course and using critical thinking to discern the right […]
Click here to read an essay adapted from the book Happy Money by Elizabeth W. Dunn, Ph.D. and Michael I. Norton, Ph.D., originally printed in Greater Good. The authors suggest three strategies for boosting generosity. (Photo: Tim Green, Creative Commons)
Already we’re seeing signs of Christmas in the marketplace–and it’s only mid-October. Here’s an idea you can start now as an alternative to the commercial hype. Click here for the details! (Photo: Fan of Retail, Creative Commons)
When is enough, well, enough? Rob Dietz and Dan O’Neill have some definite ideas and suggestions. Check out this essay adapted for the New Dream Blog from their book Enough is Enough. It squares well with scriptural guidance and would make a good basis for topical study. (Photo: jakerome, Creative Commons)
Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection, Year C
October 13, 2013
One of the greatest gifts we can give to each other in Christian community is that of helping one another cultivate a spirit of gratitude. If we do this, the glad hearts and generous spirits will follow. Saying “Thank you, Jesus” is enough, but it’s only the beginning.
Check out the September 2013 issue of the Episcopal Church Foundation’s Vital Practices Vestry Papers “Wholehearted Stewardship.” Be sure to read Fr. Bill Nesbit’s article “Spiritual Vitality.”
Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection, Year C
September 29, 2013
There’s really no way to skirt the issue of wealth, poverty, and economic justice woven throughout this week’s lessons. Here are some thoughts and ideas to help you explore the issues faithfully in preaching, worship, teaching, and with children and youth. (Photo: Cea, Creative Commons. Thanks!)
Chris McKenna, Director of Middle School Ministry at Cornerstone United Methodist Church in Caledonia, Michigan, shares three simple actions to help ‘tweens become better stewards of God’s gifts. (Photo: Jose Kevo, Creative Commons)
