Legacy Giving

Leaving a Legacy of Faith

By michael on February 10, 2025 0 Comments

Recently, I was choosing hymns for an upcoming worship service. I opened the hymnal in the pastor’s office and noted the label on the inside cover: “In loving memory of John and Margaret, whose faith shaped this church for generations.” While I wasn’t familiar with John and Margaret, their legacy lives on, intertwined with the … Continue Reading

Capital Campaign Planning

Building for the Future: Capital Campaigns That Create Lasting Change

By michael on July 17, 2024 0 Comments

Building for the Future: Capital Campaigns That Create Lasting Change Discover the lasting benefits of capital campaigns thru the real-life example of Community UCC, and see how your church can follow in their footsteps. Building for the Future Capital Campaigns That Create Lasting Change Imagine Your Church as a Beacon in the Community Imagine a … Continue Reading

Capital Campaign Planning

From Debt to Mission: Lessons from Parkville Community Church

By michael on May 17, 2024 0 Comments

From Debt to Mission How Strategic Fundraising Transformed Parkville Community Church’s Financial Health and Mission Impact This month, we delve into the journey of Parkville Community Church, a beacon of hope in its bustling suburban community near Kansas City. PCC’s leaders approached us with a remarkable opportunity to alleviate the financial strain of paying a … Continue Reading

Capital Campaign Planning

Reviving the Future: Two Stories Demonstrating the Impact of Capital Campaigns

By michael on April 17, 2024 0 Comments

This month I’d like to tell you two stories of historic Presbyterian churches who faced the challenge of aging infrastructure head-on and embarked on their own transformative journeys. Sixth Presbyterian in Pittsburgh’s East End and McKinley Memorial near the University of Illinois both offer examples of deep faith, a commitment to meet community needs, and the … Continue Reading

Stewardship & Generosity

Biblical Principles for Financial Wisdom

By michael on March 7, 2024 0 Comments

A Guide for Pastors, Elders, and other Christians   Biblical wisdom on finance and faith for a fulfilling life   Imagine, if you will, navigating your finances as if trekking through a vast, untamed wilderness—rich with potential yet fraught with obstacles. Picture in your hands an ancient, trusted guidebook, ready to lead you through this expanse. … Continue Reading

Capital Campaign Planning

The Little Stone Church: A Story of Renewed Vision for Riverside Church

By michael on December 7, 2023 0 Comments

As your church gathers in the warmth of the Advent season, embracing the spirit of hope, peace, joy, and love, I send my heartfelt wishes to you and your congregation.  This festive time invites celebration and provides an opportunity to envision a future filled with promise. Amid the joyous festivities, consider the profound gift of … Continue Reading

Capital Campaign Planning

Church Interrupted: Reviving Your Congregation’s Capital Vision for the Future

By michael on October 26, 2023 0 Comments

Church Interrupted: Reviving Your Congregation’s Capital Vision for the Future “Ready to Restart Your Congregation’s Capital Vision? Rev. Terry Epling Lead Campaign Strategist Remember 2019?   It was a time when we made big plans. We looked forward to 2020 with high hopes and created new missions and visions. We had dreams and goals for … Continue Reading

Stewardship & Generosity

Rescuing the Annual Pledge Campaign from the Shackles of Thematic Tyranny!

By michael on September 9, 2023 0 Comments

Rescuing the Annual Pledge Campaign from the Shackles of Thematic Tyranny! Hi friends, thanks for sticking around. I hope our emails are inspiring and helpful for your congregation and setting. As always, you can easily UNSUBSCRIBE. But if you’re still interested… Let me offer some thoughts.   From Themes to Vision: The Path of True … Continue Reading