Stewardship Resources for Congregational Life The annual stewardship resource packet was sent to congregations in late May. It includes a copy of “Saints Alive! Living Generously,” the 2011 Giving magazine. For a sample preview of theme materials, click here. Theme-related stationery, bulletin inserts and commitment cards can be ordered directly from the webstore of the Ecumenical Stewardship Center at www.stewardshipresources.org.
Stewardship Quotes: Here is an eclectic collection of quotes for sermon illustrations, bulletins, newsletters, or discussion.
"Top picks" for stewardship growth and study Click on the thumbnails below for more information and how to order.
Stewardship Bulletin inserts (PDF) Two sets of bulletin inserts include a total of twelve thought-provoking themes on varied aspects of "being a steward." They can be used in worship bulletins, for small group discussion or study, in stewardship committee or church board planning or discussion, or for conversations in the home. (Set 1) (Set 2)
Make It Simple, a multi-use resource from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, helps congregations and families grow stewards with a focus on simplicity, generous living, and the faithful use of God's abundant blessings. The four focus themes are: Following Jesus, Facing the Truth, Acting Together, and Sharing Enough. Included are how-to’s, preaching ideas, study and discussion topics, children's resources, and leadership aids. http://www2.elca.org/stewardship/makeitsimple/
Money Leadership: From "OH-MY" to "A-MEN" A three part webinar series posted for view or study on-line. Mark L. Vincent of Design International teaches pastors and steward leaders how to show the way at the intersection of faith and money. The sessions include follow-up assignments and are valuable for re-viewing, discussion, or planning by stewardship leaders. View these webinars at www.bethanyseminary.edu/webcasts/MoneyLeadership2010.
GET CENTERED (Know yourself; know your congregation)
GET SAVVY (Lead with knowledge and wisdom; work from the full assets of the congregation; manage from income instead of expense)
GET CONSPIRATORIAL (Inspire and involve others to grow in generous living)
New Curriculum materials Financial courses with an Anabaptist voice are available here, from Everence, one of our Ecumenical Stewardship Center partners.
Stewards of Grace (PDF) covers six aspects of living as stewards: time, talent, health, money, creation, and relationships.
Matters for Youth (PDF) is a curriculum designed to help youth integrate faith and finances. It includes seven 45-minute sessions for Sunday school classes.
Financial Foundations (PDF) is a 45-session (one full semester) school curriculum for teaching high school students to understand and practice faith-based stewardship principles while gaining financial life skills.
Planning a youth lock-in or retreat?
The "Reality Check" series offers flexible scheduling, a variety of activities, Biblical texts and worship ideas in five areas of being stewards: Moment by Moment (spirituality), Dollar by Dollar (living with money), Sunrise to Sunrise (care of creation), and Meal to Meal (hunger issues), and Breath by Breath (wellness in body, mind, and spirit).
2011 Lending library! (PDF) Are you searching for resources in Christian stewardship? Review or study “the best of many” by borrowing them from our Lending Library. Varied topics, content, type of study, and age levels are indicated in the bibliography, along with instructions for borrowing.
Using children’s literature to form stewards (PDF) All ages of children respond to the simple messages in children’s books. This bibliography suggests titles that help teach stewardship themes.