Browsing Congregational Finance
Feasting on Gratitude
Perfect for your fall campaign — here’s a six-week stewardship reflection series on the Lectionary Gospel lessons, beginning Oct. 5. Feasting on Gratitude invites readers to reflect and discuss stewardship principles and practices. Designed to complement and support a congregation’s annual giving campaign, Written for Lectionary Year A in 2011, the series is timely again in 2014. (Photo by JustCookNYC, used by Creative Commons license)
FAQ about Capital Campaigns
So your finance committee suggests a capital campaign and you want to make sure everybody is on the same page on what that’s all about? This FAQ from the Georgia United Methodist Foundation. (Photo by Stephen Yeargin, used by Creative Commons license)
Efficiency Saves Energy and Money
By spend$16,000 on energy efficiency, First Unitarian Church in Minneapolis saved $17,000 in just the first year! How much money could your congregation divert from utility costs to mission! First Unitarian shares its story in this article, which includes links to resources. (Photo by TheLatin10 via Bigstockphoto.com)
Mission, Gratitude are Keys to Giving
Struggling to provide good ministry with declining resources, many congregational leaders want to know what it takes to boost donations. There is no magic formula, but generally speaking worshipers want to feel their contributions are making a difference. Members give most generously when they feel connected to their church, are grateful for its role in their lives and confident it is contributing to God’s work.
‘Dos’ and ‘Don’ts’ of Benevolence Programs
Churches often maintain benevolence funds to assist needy individuals in times of financial crisis. However, these churches may not have enough structure in place to provide essential direction and documentation. Here, from ChurchExecutive.com, are some helpful dos and don’ts.
Preaching on Money
Most pastors would rather preach on almost anything other than finances and stewardship. But as the preaching pastor, you are the chief development officer for your church. This is part of the job. From Ministry Matters. (Photo by Fallonyates, used by Creative Commons license)
Book Review: Six Steps to a Generous Life
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 […]
Giving? What kind?
Three kinds of financial giving are mentioned in the Bible: offerings, tithes and alms. Do you know the difference? Most people don’t. This document helps us understand what is meant by each. From ELCA Stewardship Resources. (Photo by Lisafx, via Bigstock.com)
Financial Controls Protect Church Offerings
Churches can be easy targets for thieves, but by taking some simple, commonsense steps church leaders can prevent protect their church from being victimized, says this excellent article from Brotherhood Mutual Insurance, part of the company’s extensive Safety Library. (Photo by Rob Pongsajapan, used by Creative Commons license. Thanks!)
Conversation Starter on Generosity and Gratitude
This resource from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada will help you explore your experience of gratitude and generosity, and become more comfortable sharing this aspect of our faith. Use this in your congregation, your Bible study group, or even for your own family’s personal stewardship development. (Photo © mangostock – Fotolia.com)
