Stewardship & fundraising

Beyond the offering plate: How to measure generosity in ways other than money

When congregations reduce giving to a financial transaction, they ignore the generosity happening all around them in other forms, a pastor writes.

By Robert Rueda Director, Baptist Student Ministry, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

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Three churches share their experiences practicing intentional stewardship year-round

Different in size, location and denomination, these churches are all working to move beyond traditional fall giving campaigns by creating a philosophy of continuous stewardship.

By Leslie Quander Wooldridge Journalist

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Why is a business model important for a ministry?

The new executive director of any ministry needs to understand the organization’s finances. That includes how money is raised and spent as well as the economics of the people involved.

By David L. Odom Executive director, Forum for Congregational Life

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How the church can serve society by changing the way it handles property

As many as 100,000 buildings and billions of dollars in church-owned property are expected to be sold or repurposed by 2030. With planning and thoughtful stewardship, those assets can continue to serve communities, says Mark Elsdon, the editor of(active the new book, “Gone for Good?”

Dignity and respect are the key to a multimillion-dollar ministry supported by a successful thrift shop

Dorcas Ministries attracts hundreds of volunteers who work at its secondhand store — and believe in its larger mission as one of the region’s premier social welfare agencies.

By Yonat Shimron Journalist

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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.

Laura Ullrich and David Brown: Why pastors should understand economics

Economists live in a world of scarcity. Christians believe in God’s abundance. In this conversation, an economist and a pastor talk about the ways in which that tension plays out in ministry and life.

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

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Melissa Spas: How do you fundraise and ask for major gifts? Don't pitch. Nurture relationships first.

Fundraising is about forming relationships, sharing the mission of your organization, and inviting others to participate, writes the managing director for the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving.

By Melissa Spas Nonprofit leader

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Church's money management lessons lead to transformation in an impoverished neighborhood

Eastern Star Church is helping bring hope to the 46218 ZIP code in Indianapolis through housing initiatives, social services, a grocery store, financial coaching and more.

By Shari Finnell Journalist

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Afraid to preach and teach about money in your congregation? Don't be.

Breaking the taboo about money talk can be fruitful for congregations, a new study shows. The more congregations talk about money, the more likely they are to see a corresponding increase in giving, according to the National Study of Congregations’ Economic Practices.