Browsing by Rob Blezard
Congregational Leadership as Spiritual Practice
Congregational leadership involves seeing the holy in the congregation’s members and the quotidian activities of the church and trying to bring that holiness out in partnership with God and others. But in the business of congregational life, it is easy to lose our way, focus on product rather than persons, become overwhelmed by the tasks of ministry, and forget that we are always on holy ground as we interact with God’s beloved children. What can we do? Here are some ideas. (Photo by Lel4nd, used by Creative Commons license)
Achieving Dreams Beyond the Budget
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.
Transformational Leadership for the Church
The Christian church needs a different kind of leadership to address the daunting social, economic and cultural challenges facing us in the 21st century. Transformational leadership may be one answer. This article from ChurchExective.com provides a brief overview of transformational leadership and how to make it work for your context. (Photo by Alias 0591, used […]
Want to Be Missional in the Way of Jesus?—Avoid These 5 Mistakes
The term “missional†describes the activity of God’s people in the world for God’s mission. But now the word has taken on broad meanings by such diverse and often contradictory voices that, to some, “missional†has become virtually meaningless, argues ChristianityToday blogger Ed Stetzer. (Photo by Randy OHC, used by Creative Commons license)
Pope Calls for Compasion, Care for Poor
Market speculation and pursuit of profits are hindering the global fight against hunger and poverty, Pope Francis told a U.N. conference in Rome on nutrition. He urged the world’s wealthiest nations to do more to help those in need, says this Religion News Service report. (Photo by Alan Light, used by Creative Commons license)
Why Money Has Stopped Going to Church
People are giving money to organizations and causes that they believe in and that know how to ask properly. Unfortunately, that is frequently not the Christian church. We have a lot to learn from fundraising-savvy organizations, such as National Public Radio, argues a writer for the Center for Faith and Giving.
The Joy of Preaching Stewardship
For veteran preacher Gary Langness, preaching stewardship happens year round, is a joy-filled process, and begins even before the pastor steps foot in the pulpit. In this article from Luther Seminary’s “Story Magazine” he shares some basic principles. (Photo by that.with.the.camera, used by Creative Commons license)
10 Ways to Increase Church Giving
Churches have fallen on tough times. Giving is way down. From established churches to startup churches, it seems like everyone is reeling from the economy. With lost jobs or slashed incomes, churchgoers just aren’t giving. What can churches do to increase tithing? Here are tips from ShareFaith magazine.
Easy Ways to Share Gratitude this Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving comes every fourth Thursday in November, but thanking God for our blessings is a spiritual discipline that should not be limited to a single day. Giving thanks is as essential to our spiritual growth as prayer. Here are some creative ideas not only to develop an attitude of thankfulness but also to reach out to our neighbors.
‘Best Stewardship Practices’ Presentation
What are the key points to emphasize about congregational stewardship? This handy PowerPoint presentation covers the ground handily from a Lutheran perspective, but is easily adaptable for any context. Posted on the website of the Metropolitan D.C. Synod of the ELCA.
