What is Stewardship?
Let’s start by identifying what stewardship is not. Stewardship is not a program, not a fall campaign for the budget, not a one-shot learning experience. Stewardship is “everything I do after I say I believe.” Congregations have long equated stewardship with only money. It does begin there, but it must continue on.
“ … you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7
Here are some stewardship basics to get you thinking about what stewardship is within your churches context. These ideas come from Step by Step: Fostering Financial Stewardship in Your Congregation, a resource available on line and as a handy printed booklet (at Augsburg Fortress 1-800-328-4648, item 6-0001-6370-3).
- Be in agreement
Do your leaders agree that stewardship is about money, but it is not only about money? Work for consensus. - Find stewardship leaders
Ask several leaders to give special attention to stewardship for the next two to three years. They will plan and conduct the annual “Every Member Response;” provide year-round stewardship education; develop special giving, designated giving, giving from accumulated resources; and establish an endowment plan for the church. - Manage well
Stewardship leaders are responsible for assuring that the resources of the congregation are managed wisely. Share with the congregation how this is happening. - Develop gifted people
Your congregation has wonderful resources, including its people. Help them develop their gifts so that they may more fully live lives of meaning and purpose and so that the ministry of the congregation will be able to grow. - Manage your time
It is good to have a task for everyone, but no one should have to spend “too much” time on task in the congregation. When a small group of people does everything, others have little opportunity to contribute. - Learn how to thank
Financial gifts should be acknowledged at least five times a year (once each quarter plus a special acknowledgment early in December). Remind the giver of what has been accomplished through their financial gifts. - Lift your vision through mission support
Strive to contribute at least 15 percent of your regular offerings as Mission Support. Learn what you do together with other congregations in your synod and the whole ELCA. Invite your synod office to tell about the marvelous things happening right in your area. Lift the vision and you will lift the commitment. - Teach giving throughout the year
When is a good time to talk about giving? Anytime.
