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Plastic Purge

Want to know more about plastics, their effects on humans and the environment, and how to recycle them properly? Here’s a comprehensive article from UTNE Reader by Plastic Purge author Michael SanClements. You’re almost there. Click the title to be redirected. (Photo: Katherine Davis, Creative Commons)

In Process

If you’ve ever undertaken a church renovation or home restoration project, you understand a thing or two about what it means to be “in process.” Dwellings need continual upkeep and maintenance to remain sound and functional. So do organisms and organizations. The Body of Christ is no exception to the rule. (Photo by Jeremy Levine, used by Creative Commons license)

Word

Fifth Sunday after Pentecost, Year A
How are we respond to the creative word and redeeming purpose of God? The answer is a simple one. We, the created and beloved, are to praise God and offer our thanks. We are to use our humble gifts of human voice, word, and action in joyous and grateful response to God’s amazing “Word” of grace, love, and mercy. (Photo: John Morgan, Creative Commons)

Opening Doors

Business author Bill Treasurer says “Effective leadership isn’t about having power over people, it’s about doing good for people.” Steward leaders can take good lessons from Treasurer’s new book, entitled “Leaders Open Doors.” (Photo: William Murphy, Creative Commons

The Soul Whisperer

Lectionary Reflection for the Fourth Sunday after Pentecost Year A, June 6, 2014
Can you hear the whisper of Jesus calling you to wholeness, to healing, to a new way of being? In the wearying wake of the world’s vain promises and competing claims, Jesus offers fresh hope, a light load, and real rest. These are words so many of us need to hear afresh. How will you share this good news? (Photo: wild, Creative Commons)

Why the Church is a Hotbed for Finance Education

Personal finance classes offered by churches are often well-attended by the congregation. Some of the things that make these classes successful can be helpful to people who don’t attend church, too. What would a personal-finance program do for your congregation? (Photo by Jirka Matousek, used by Creative Commons license)

It’s Not too Late to Rethink Stewardship!

Register now for Luther Seminary’s Rethinking Stewardship 2014 Conference, July 28-30, on the campus of Luther Seminary. The focus for this year’s event is year-round stewardship, and you’ll leave with plenty of practical ideas to put to use in your congregation. Check the link for more information and to register.

A Living Wage in God’s Economy

Third Week after Pentecost, Year A, June 29, 2014
This week’s lessons offer wonderful possibilities to talk about stewardship of time, resources, relationships, and faith. Ample opportunities to address hospitality and welcome are at hand, as well. Check out our ideas for worship and for time with children and youth, too! (Photo: Intel Free Press, Creative Commons)

Real Losers

Second Sunday after Pentecost Year A Lectionary Reflection
June 22, 2014
Here’s the deal: this week’s lessons are not easy ones, but they contain tough words that we need to hear, ponder, and to which we must respond. Discipleship is not an easy lifestyle, but the rewards are everlasting and the promises are true. Speak the truth in love this week. (Photo: Jonny Hughes, Creative Commons)

Clergy Learn that Self-care is Not Self-ish

Even with the best intentions and all the knowledge and advice in the world, clergy of all ages often find it difficult to take care of themselves. On the long list of items that must be done every day, they often put self-care last, with unhealthy results for ministry. But churches are increasingly working to encourage and equip their leaders to take better care of themselves.(Photo © Warren Goldswain, Fotolia.)