Browsing Congregational Finance
Unleashing Our People’s Generosity
Here are questions you frequently hear: “What is the secret to creating a culture of generosity in my local church? Why does stewardship come so easy to some congregations but is so hard in mine?” This article from the United Methodist Church provides some insight. (Photo © laurent hamels – Fotolia.com)
7 Steps to Stewardship Success
Stewardship begins with you, the congregational leaders who know best the needs, resources and culture of your parish. Here are seven ideas that can assist you in shaping a stewardship program that produces your desired results. (Photo © kbuntu – Fotolia.com)
Stewardship Lessons for Christmas
The Nativity story offers many opportunities to preach on or discuss themes of stewardship. Check them out, from the Archdiocese of St. Louis. (Photo by brockvicky, 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.
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.
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.
‘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.
FAQ about Tithing
What’s the deal about tithing? Is it a biblical mandate, a generous response or an outdated measure for giving? This FAQ from the Catholic Archdiocese of St. Louis provides answers. (Photo by Raymond Bryson, used by Creative Commons license)
Pledging: Should Clergy Know?
The question comes up eventually in about every church: Should the pastor know what each family gives? There are certainly pros and cons to both sides of the issue, as this article from the Episcopal Church Foundation points out. (Photo by TaxRebate.org.uk, used by permission)
Develop Your Theology of Stewardship
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)
