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Simplicity: A Better Normal?

Some may say simplicity is becoming the new normal–the way we must live to ensure a future for those who will come after us and for our entire planet. Another way to look at simplicity is as a “better” normal, as a way to sustain health, well-being, and community. Click here to Read Duane Elgin’s […]

First (and always)–Give Thanks

Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection, Year C
October 13, 2013
One of the greatest gifts we can give to each other in Christian community is that of helping one another cultivate a spirit of gratitude. If we do this, the glad hearts and generous spirits will follow. Saying “Thank you, Jesus” is enough, but it’s only the beginning.

Faith — ‘A Little Dab’ll Do Ya!’

Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection, October 6, 2013
More is not always necessary, or even better. Take hot sauce for example. A little goes a long way. God gives us enough faith. We need only trust and be good stewards of the gift. (Photo: Creative Commons)

Creative Recycling

Check out this article from Mother Nature Network! It shows you how to recycle everything from crayons to Crocs and a whole lot more. (Photo: jjsink, Creative Commons)

Spiritual Vitality and Stewardship

Check out the September 2013 issue of the Episcopal Church Foundation’s Vital Practices Vestry Papers “Wholehearted Stewardship.” Be sure to read Fr. Bill Nesbit’s article “Spiritual Vitality.”

  • September 29
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True Wealth

Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection, Year C
September 29, 2013
There’s really no way to skirt the issue of wealth, poverty, and economic justice woven throughout this week’s lessons. Here are some thoughts and ideas to help you explore the issues faithfully in preaching, worship, teaching, and with children and youth. (Photo: Cea, Creative Commons. Thanks!)

  • September 26
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Fully Faithful

Lectionary Reflection for the Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost, Year C
September 22, 2013
The parable of the dishonest manager provides a good context for discussing faith, commitment, and…money. How are you addressing the right and faithful use of resources within your community of faith? (Photo: Liz West, Creative Commons, Thanks!)

  • September 19
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Faith Aflame

Kindle a Stewardship Flame in Your Church

Check out Faith Aflame from the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, a free comprehensive offering with a broad assortment of downloadable resources for congregational leaders.   Click here or above to explore the Faith Aflame site.

  • September 10
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Really, Jesus?

Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost, Year C, September 8, 2013

Surely Jesus is kidding, right? What’s all this talk about hating family, carrying crosses, and giving up possessions? Discipleship can’t be that hard, can it? Maybe it’s time we stopped skirting the issue and started living with the questions. (Photo: Tsahi Levent-Levi, Creative Commons)

Three Simple Actions: Modeling Stewardship for ‘Tweens

Chris McKenna, Director of Middle School Ministry at Cornerstone United Methodist Church in Caledonia, Michigan, shares three simple actions to help ‘tweens become better stewards of God’s gifts. (Photo: Jose Kevo, Creative Commons)