Giving and Stewardship in an Effective Church : A Guide for Every Member

Rating:
Summary: Excellent book
Review: An excellent book that outlines seven principles of stewardship, such as the importance of linking mission to giving and that people live into the expectations that are set for them. The book has information useful in diagnosing a parish and includes a lot of practical advice. A must-have for those interested in Christian Stewardship.

Rating:
Summary: Straight Talk on Stewardship
Review: Far too often, "stewardship" in church parlance means "money". In this book, Kennon Callahan explains in simple terms that individual generosity comes from inspired corporate stewardship. Churches with compelling missions of social action engage their members' hearts, and their pocketbooks follow. Callahan's book reminds sincere church members that stewardship isn't a financial decision but a spiritual decision. All priests, pastors and lay leader who want their parishes to grow should read this book.

Rating:
Summary: Great Tips for Building Stewardship
Review: I appreciate Callahan's practical tips on training, teamwork, and positive expectations. His emphasis on vision and mission, rather than meeting the budget, is at the heart of understanding giving. If your church wants to know how to grow stewardship responsivness this is the book for you.

Rating:
Summary: A very personal perspective on stewardship
Review: The book looked a bit simplistic at first-- short, straight-forward outline... I thought I'd probably read through, mark if off the list of things I've been referred to read, then never look at the book again.

What a surprise!

Callahan walks you through several principles about giving-- and how these principles, when enacted, help reach the potential God places in each follower of Christ through His Spirit. He speaks of people wanting to give to winning causes, and how the fact that we speak the vision in a positive (or needy) way changes people's perspective and willingness to give. He speaks of "the ask" and of other great concepts, many of which have much to do with leadership in other areas besides the finances of the Church.

I'm impressed by the practicality of this work, as well. And, of how Callahan offers useable space in the actual text for you to jot your ideas, thoughts, and how you might implement some of these principles.

Also, if you've ever wondered if "special offerings" willl detract from "general funds" (i.e. "Will people give to this and forget about that...?"), KC addresses that, in depth, as well.

A great book. You can read it in a few hours, but it will take much longer to digest-- even though it can be implemented immediately!