Most Downloaded Resources

Resource Grants, workshops, the long-term learning event Pastors’ Peer Studies Group, and Nancy’s Church Management Software Picks are in this issue of Centerpiece.

Fundraising can be a touchy and difficult issue for congregations. Growth, expansion, remodeling, and repairs often require a religious organization to focus on the money necessary to most successfully continue its ministry and spiritual education. Professional fundraising consultants can put their experience and expertise to work, bringing a sense of accomplishment, community and fulfillment to a congregation's stewardship efforts.

Leading a community of faith is a complex process that includes not only spiritual issues, but more tangible matters as well. Fundraising, strategic planning, mission statements and goals are all part of the business that sometimes require assistance from an external source. A professional consultant can provide an objective opinion, offer expertise in a particular field, and see issues from afar that congregation members may not see from their close proximity.

Resources for Effective Building Projects

Emphasize the positive. Use affirming language. Look for the life-giving moments. Congregations are finding pathways to positive change through a variety of group processes that encourage supportive and uplifting actions involving the whole community of faith. Processes such as Asset Mapping, Appreciative Inquiry, World Café, and Open Space Technology are gaining momentum as congregations look for ways to emphasize and utilize their strengths to meet their challenges.

How much longer will our roof last? Are we using the most efficient heating and cooling system? What are the first steps to begin the renovation process on that old education wing? Congregations are often full of questions about how to best maintain and repair their sacred spaces. From the nuts and bolts of a good electrical system to the more abstract concepts of planning space for the future, a full assessment of the facility and all of its parts is an invaluable tool for congregations.

Written by Center for Congregations staffers Nancy Armstrong, Brent Bill, and Aaron Spiegel, Best Practices for Using Computers in Congregations appeared in the January 2006 Clergy Journal.

Resources for Effective Building Projects

Workshops, seminars, conferences, and classes are incredible learning tools for congregations. They can provide inspiration, refreshed views and new concepts and ideas. Often putting into action the innovative ideas and plans presented, however, can get lost, forgotten or met with lukewarm reception once the event is over. This Using Resources piece offers some ideas on how to get the best results from an education event.