The hidden costs churches absorb—and why leadership matters Rev. Hannah Lovaglio Deferred maintenance is not a phrase we tend to associate with the Bible. But Nehemiah would recognize it immediately. When he arrives in Jerusalem, he doesn’t discover a new problem; he finally tells the truth about an old one. The walls have been broken … Continue Reading
Capital Campaign Planning, Stewardship & Generosity
A reflection on generosity, gratitude, and noticing the gifts that sustain us. Rev. Hannah Lovaglio Epiphany is the season of revelation. Light breaks in, begging our recognition and response. It begins with the Magi, who see what others miss. They notice the star, honor the Christ child whose birth it signals, and give – extravagantly. … Continue Reading
Capital Campaign Planning, Educational, Stewardship & Generosity
January invites us to pause, notice what has been given, and begin with gratitude. The Sundays of January always leave me a little deflated. The sanctuary feels bare once the decorations come down. No tree. No candles. No Advent wreath. No twinkling lights. No manger. The garland is packed away, the poinsettias are gone, and … Continue Reading
Capital Campaign Planning, Mission & Vision, Stewardship & Generosity
One of the first questions I ask a prospective client is, “How will this campaign help achieve the mission and vision of your church?” Capital campaigns aren’t just “fundraising projects” anymore. They’ve become moments for the church to pause and say, “Here’s what we believe God is calling us to do and here’s how we … Continue Reading
Capital Campaign Planning, Mission & Vision, Stewardship & Generosity
The right guidance can unlock generosity, clarity, and momentum. See how outside counsel supports faithful leadership.A few months ago, I tried fixing a plumbing issue in our bathroom. I watched a few videos, made a trip to the hardware store, and gave it a go. It worked. Until it didn’t. By the end of the … Continue Reading
There’s nothing like a cold sanctuary to get your attention. We are nearing completion of a campaign with one church whose furnace gave out – on Christmas Eve! That chilly wake-up call led them to take a serious look at their entire building, and what started as an emergency turned into a real moment of … Continue Reading
We were privileged to work with the Presbyterian Church of Wyoming last year with an innovative and adaptive vision. The HVAC system in their older building – housing the sanctuary, parlor, offices, library, and more – was failing. Cold church services in the winter and uncomfortably warm ones in the summer were no fun. And … Continue Reading
Dear friends, Ah, January. A chance to stand at the threshold and dream a little—about what’s next, what’s possible, and how we can grow. For churches, it’s a great moment to step back and think about how we can keep our ministry thriving not just for today, but for the future. This week, I’m sharing … Continue Reading
Just three weeks ago my family, like yours, gathered in our home around the Christmas tree for that age-old tradition of sharing gifts. I was struck by the litany of “Thank you’s” around the room as each gift was opened. Thinking back on those moments inspired some reflections on the power of gratitude. There’s something … Continue Reading
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