Capital Campaign Planning

Abundance Unlocked: Exploring Creative Ways to Sustain Ministry

By Michael Erwin on January 27, 2025 • 0 Comments

Churches have long relied on traditional income sources like tithes, offerings, and special giving campaigns to fund their ministries. But there are alternatives to traditional church funding that can supplement congregational giving and help sustain ministry. While these methods remain the cornerstone of church budgets, modern challenges—such as fluctuating attendance and rising operational costs—can strain … Continue Reading

Children engage in a colorful activity with a teacher in a bright kindergarten classroom

Capital Campaign Planning

The Best Stewardship Campaign Starts in January

By Michael Erwin on January 15, 2025 • 0 Comments

If your stewardship campaign begins in the fall, you’re already behind. Generosity grows through year-round storytelling, engagement, and discipleship. One of the most common mistakes churches make is treating stewardship as a six-week campaign that happens every fall. The calendar turns to September. A theme is selected. A brochure is printed. A few testimonies are … Continue Reading

Capital Campaign Planning

Starting the Year with Gratitude: The Art of Writing Thank You Notes

By Michael Erwin on January 10, 2025 • 0 Comments

January is the perfect time to reflect on the generosity that sustains and strengthens your church community. From financial gifts to volunteered time, every act of giving contributes to your shared ministry and mission. As pastors and lay leaders, one of the simplest and most impactful ways to honor that generosity is through a heartfelt … Continue Reading

Capital Campaign Planning

From Debt to Mission: Lessons from Parkville Community Church

By Michael Erwin 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 Erwin 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 Erwin 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 Erwin 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