By Lisa Smith Fiegel, Alaska Synod (ELCA) director for evangelical mission When I heard the knock, I expected to be asked to give a large sum of money to a ministry I love. What I didn’t expect was the way it would make me feel. Two representatives from the ministry sat down with me and… Read more »
By Rev. Ka Hon Tony Wong As a pastor of small bicultural (English/Chinese) church, I notice that lack of resources is one of the discussions I have with the lay leaders in my church council. When I discuss this phenomenon with my Associate English ministry pastor, we recognize the concern of our church members and… Read more »
In 2018, giving to religion by individuals, corporations, and foundations declined, decreasing by 1.5 percent (3.9 percent when adjusted for inflation) to $124.52 billion, or 29 percent of total charitable contributions. While concern has been raised that declining donations to religious congregations and a decrease in religiosity in the U.S. could lead to fewer charitable… Read more »
Last year, I was awarded a grant through Leadership Education at Duke Divinity to support an innovative approach to leadership within my institution, Lake Institute on Faith & Giving. Lake Institute offers a variety of educational and public programs on a regular basis; however, we’ve never offered a renewal day or retreat for our constituents…. Read more »
By Marcia Shetler A few years ago during a family vacation to northern California, we visited Sutter’s Mill, where John Sutter’s discovery of gold in the American River set off the California gold rush. Our three young grandchildren enjoyed doing their own prospecting along the riverbank. They were excited about their shiny discoveries, even though… Read more »