Links
Some of the most useful stewardship and fundraising web sites on-line are listed here to help create a useful stewardship guide. We hope these sites help develop a richer stewardship education program in your church.
"Preaching Stewardship: Confessions of a Convert" (From our July 2010 newsletter) Many pastors feel uncomfortable "preaching about money" and yet generosity -- freely giving from our God-given blessings -- is an essential part of being spiritually whole. This month's article approaches this sensitive topic with insight and levity. It addresses the spiritual issues that are at the root of living a generous life and the welcome fruits of faithfully supporting the ministries of the church.
"Ten Ways to Inspire Generosity" (From our May 2010 newsletter with the same title.) Following up on last month's article on the impact of the economic downturn on churches, this month's article offers "ten ways that pastors and church leaders can inspire generosity and increase giving so their church can focus on thriving instead of just surviving." The article focuses on methods of building generosity that are solidly grounded in a vision of Christian discipleship that aims at deepening the faith of your members and building up your church.
"The Economy's Impact on Churches: Congregational Budgets" (From our April 2010 newsletter entitled "The Economy's Impact on Churches")
We've all felt the impact of the economic downturn, though to varying degrees. Looking for some perspective on the issue, we at Church Development found the national study below, which assesses that impact on church budgets, details how churches are coping, and even suggests that the situation may be stabilizing.
"From the Editor" - article from Winter 2009 NACAB Ledger (From our March 2010 newsletter entitled "Overcoming Limiting Assumptions")
Phil Martin reviews the book "A Time to Think" which describes "the wall in the head" - that is, false limits that we impose upon ourselves. Phil states, "Walls in the head are not only an issue for us as individuals but churches and organizations develop their own sets of limiting assumptions." He urges us to be open to "incisive questions."
This insightful, one-page editorial is full of great information.
"10 stewardship issues every church leader should consider in 2009" (From our January 2010 e-newsletter with the same name.) From the article:"What a terrible price to miss authentic ministry because we lacked financial resources, especially when our neighbors may be driven to their most open spiritual moments in years because of their personal financial stress."
"Fidelity® Charitable Gift Fund and VolunteerMatch Form Alliance and Release Landmark Study on Volunteering" (From our December 2009 e-newsletter titled 'Developing Stewards Within Our Faith Community') What turns an attendee into an engaged volunteer and a steward? A recent study conducted by the Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund gives some interesting insight.
"Your Brand=Influence Equity" (from our November 2009 e-newsletter titled 'From Good to Great in Church Stewardship') A recent article by David Kinnaman, President of the Barna Group describes his thoughts on the stewardship of who you are as a church.
“Slump Strains Church Finances as Need Grows”
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If you have any questions or you would like to speak with a Church Development consultant about growing stewardship in your church, contact us here.
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