New economic models

Nonprofit helps churches increase social impact by leveraging their assets

The Oikos Institute for Social Impact helps BIPOC Christian leaders work together to develop a vision, identify existing resources and seek new sources of funding for ministries that serve their communities.

By Alison Bowen Journalist

Image link to article: Nonprofit helps churches increase social impact by leveraging their assets

Having my student debt forgiven helps me believe there is another way

Instead of defaulting to individual responsibility, shouldn’t we forgive one another’s debts?

By Melissa Florer-Bixler Pastor, Raleigh Mennonite Church

Image link to article: Having my student debt forgiven helps me believe there is another way

Living into the kingdom of God by believing in its abundance

We can live out our beliefs as the early church did by stewarding resources to meet the needs of all, writes a director of programs and grants for Leadership Education at Duke Divinity.

By Mycal X. Brickhouse Director of programs and grants, Leadership Education at Duke Divinity

Image link to article: Living into the kingdom of God by believing in its abundance

Bivocationalism has historical roots — and modern benefits

As church size declines, more pastors pursue second (and even third) careers for economic or personal reasons. Researchers and practitioners share guidance on how to make it work, advising that letting go of the stigma can be a first step.

By Leslie Quander Wooldridge Journalist

Image link to article: Bivocationalism has historical roots — and modern benefits

Miguel Escobar: The church has a complicated relationship with money

The author of a new book opens a discussion on stewardship, poverty and the holy uses of wealth.

Money, mission and meeting in person -- a new study looks at COVID-19's effect on churches

More than 550 congregations took part in Lake Institute’s survey about the pandemic. While their finances have been impacted, many faith communities are adapting, which will be critical moving forward.

By Edie Gross Journalist

Image link to article: Money, mission and meeting in person -- a new study looks at COVID-19's effect on churches

Learning about reparations makes clear their need

For newcomers to the call for reparations, understanding the need to move beyond atonement to restitution is a crucial step, writes the director of the Thriving in Ministry Coordination Program at Leadership Education at Duke Divinity.

By Alaina Kleinbeck Associate Executive Director, Coordination Programs

Image link to article: Learning about reparations makes clear their need

'Here for you, not because of you' -- Nashville nonprofit serves up coffee, soap and empowerment

Building on strengths and taking the long view, a Christ-centered South Nashville nonprofit emerges as a catalyst for holistic community development.

By Fiona Soltes Journalist

Image link to article: 'Here for you, not because of you' -- Nashville nonprofit serves up coffee, soap and empowerment

Dave Odom: What does financial sustainability mean in the midst of inequity?

How we measure the investment in organizations can shortchange commitments that different racial, ethnic and cultural communities make to their ministries, writes the executive director of Leadership Education at Duke Divinity.

By David L. Odom Executive director, Leadership Education at Duke Divinity

Image link to article: Dave Odom: What does financial sustainability mean in the midst of inequity?

Nathan Kirkpatrick: Tangier Island, the church and living on the edge

Tangier Island is losing up to 16 feet of coastline every year and will be uninhabitable within 50 years. How many congregations find themselves similarly watching the sea rise, and why aren’t we doing more for them?

By Nathan Kirkpatrick Principal, Saison Consulting, LLC

Image link to article: Nathan Kirkpatrick: Tangier Island, the church and living on the edge

Matt Overton: How social enterprise has changed my congregation and me

A youth pastor finds that running a social enterprise has influenced everything from his preaching to his role in the community. It has also helped congregants reach across the political divide.

By Matt Overton Associate pastor, Columbia Presbyterian Church, Vancouver, Washington