Ash Wednesday is just the beginning...the beginning of repentance as we move toward the glorious new beginning of Resurrection Sunday. Let your light continue to shine during these next 40 days because generosity – in all its forms – should never take a break.

By providing people the space and opportunity to give away their money to fund life-changing, potentially world-shaking ministry, you are participating in a subversive act that is counter cultural.

Undoubtedly, you will be changed just by making other people feel good. Years ago, I had a pastor tell me, “When I wrote those Valentine’s Day cards, I fell in love with my congregation all over again.”

You never know who you will run into who might be primed to say “yes” to your ministry project or program. And they might be willing to say “of course” if you’re able to tell the story of the need and how much it will cost to make it happen.

“We are all trying to make the world a better place especially for people who have less. The collective work of this profession is quite profound.”

It’s a new year, it’s a new you (right?!). Pick up one or two new skills. Remain intellectually curious. Follow the Stewardship Calendar and you can face the new stewardship year with confidence.

There you have it, friends. Take a read or re-read one or two of these and see if you’re inspired to
a. Try something new (like Venmo)
b. Update something old (like those policies)
c. Feel better about the wonderful work you are doing to make this world a better place.

So many of you have mastered many of these twelve but maybe there’s one or two you’d especially like to incorporate this season – or before the end of the year. Once you get started, you’ll see just how easy it will be to accomplish them.

“Stories are a fundamental device that we humans use to communicate and process information. We think in metaphors and learn through stories. Which means that every time you communicate to your audience – whether through your website, email, videos, social media, events – you are telling people a story about your nonprofit.” (Ron Arnold)

Remember, nonprofits (including seminaries) are doing a much better job of educating their fans about how they can give a variety of cash and non-cash gifts.  

Now you’ve been educated. Here’s your opportunity to let your people and fans know how they can make a difference to make more ministry possible.