Resources and Comments in Response to “Funding for Today and Tomorrow”

In the July 7, 2010 issue of Alban Weekly (“Funding for Today and Tomorrow“) Dan Hotchkiss points out that many congregations want to believe they serve those beyond their walls, but expect budget outlays to focus on the desires and needs of their members. He compares the congregation with other nonprofits as he explains that both kinds of institutions require plans for “primary customers” (people whose lives will change through interacting with the organization) and “secondary customers” (people whose contributions and support are needed for success).

The article discusses several ways to approach these plans. (If you have not read the full article yet, please do so now.) One approach is to “teach stewardship to members, who eventually understand that the congregation does not exist for them alone but has a precious gift to give to others through their gifts of time and treasure.”

What resources can support teaching stewardship in your congregation? In addition to the resources listed at the end of the article, we suggest you check out the “Stewardship” sections in both the “Administration” and “Spirituality” categories of the Congregational Resource Guide.  You might especially find Generous Saints: Congregations Rethinking Ethics and Money helpful.

What are your stories and thoughts on this topic? And what resources have you found helpful? We look forward to hearing from you! 

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