Stewardship & fundraising

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

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

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

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

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 Vice president of religion, Chautauqua Institution

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

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

Image link to article: Church's money management lessons lead to transformation in an impoverished neighborhood

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.

By Edie Gross Journalist

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

Melissa Spas: The end of the year is no time to take a break from stewardship

Year’s end is a time to celebrate generosity and invite giving. It’s a chance for churches not only to attend to year-end stewardship but also to build momentum for giving year-round, writes a managing director of the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving.

By Melissa Spas Vice president of religion, Chautauqua Institution

Image link to article: Melissa Spas: The end of the year is no time to take a break from stewardship

David P. King: Start a conversation about giving

Don’t just give another stewardship sermon. New research into religious giving indicates that Christian leaders should broaden the conversation and talk to people about the meaning of their life and work, says the director of the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving.

Adam J. Copeland: Crowdfunding offers new opportunities to expand congregational giving

Crowdfunding offers congregations a way to broaden their concept of stewardship, with opportunities to expand the focus, audience and reach of fundraising efforts, says an expert on stewardship and congregational giving.