Here is a manual for those who would work on building an endowment or seeking planned gifts in their local church, “Achieving Your Dreams Beyond the Budget” is an exceptional tool for local church stewardship. This publication outlines a timeless process for congregational planned giving that is still relevant today. Beginning with a theological foundation for planned giving, the booklet walks you through the steps to implement a planned giving program in your congregation.
How do you understand stewardship? Have you thought through the issues involved in faith and giving? Here is a handy guide that will help you develop a theology of stewardship that is right for your context. From the United Methodist Foundation for the Memphis and Tennessee Conferences. (Photo (c) Keren Tan, ShareAlike License)
We need healthy pastors to have a healthy church, but statistics show that clergy need help in this area. Designed for use by pastors and lay leadership, this three-part series seeks to illustrate some of the unique issues clergy face in maintaining and improving their physical, emotional, social, financial, and spiritual wellbeing. Through video and discussion guides, it encourages congregations and pastors to share a ministry of health that benefits everyone. (Photo by Dr. Abdulla Nasar, used by Creative Commons license)
To be “Committed to Christ” involves more than just a two- to four-week financial emphasis each November. In his book Bob Crossman has designed a holistic approach to Christian discipleship that includes financial giving, but also looks at the other elements involved as well. Reviewed by Ken Sloane of the United Methodist Church, Board of General Discipleship. (Photo […]
What is the secret to creating a culture of generosity in my church? Why does stewardship come so easy to some congregations but is so hard in mine? Good questions, that this resource from the United Methodist Church answers in a simple, sweeping, easy-to-understand concept.
Clear thinking and sound assumptions are musts in order to foster a climate of generosity in your congregation. This brief article from the United Methodist Church will help you head down the right road. (Photo by ThrasherDave, used by Creative Commons license. Thanks!)
Many churches calculate their needed monthly offering simply by dividing the yearly budget by 12, and yet everyone knows that the actual giving tends to differ by month and season. There are better ways to calculate what is an adequate gift for any given month, according the United Methodist Church.
Asking people for money may move you out of your comfort zone. That’s a good sign. If you’re not experiencing anxiety or discomfort, the risk you’re taking is probably not worthy of you. (Photo by iqoncept, via bigstockphoto.com)
Alarmed with reports that its pastors were significantly less healthy than other professionals, the United Methodist Church commissioned a task force to investigate and suggest solutions. After three years of work, they came back with a report that details important steps. Click above to get to the news article; click here to go to the […]
