As Fall approaches, churches and congregations around the country are beginning to take stock of this year’s accomplishments and look forward to what the next year may bring. A crucial part of that endeavor is analyzing this year’s budget compared to next year’s mission. Churches ask: what ministry enabled the congregation to grow spiritually? What are the needs in our community and beyond? What are the future commitments to which God is calling us?
Rev. Dr. Brian Tillman, the Senior Pastor of Central UMC in Atlanta, provided insight as to how good stewardship provides tangible results for parishioners and ensures their trust in church leadership. In order to make a powerful impact, the UMC relies on the faithful stewardship of our congregants to be able fulfill our goals and objectives. “Stewardship is taking good care of financial resources, ” says Tillman. It allows us to be the hands and feet of Christ in a meaningful way and to “invest in places that would otherwise not receive funding.” The most important impact of good stewardship, he adds is, “appropriately investing in ministry opportunities. We want to make sure we have an adequate amount of funds to do the ministry of the church in the world.”
So much of the UMC’s presence in our community and our parishioners lives is predicated on good, thoughtful stewardship. While the spiritual discipline of giving is formative for current and future disciples, our financial gifts also keep the lights on, the pulpit filled and the roof leaks plugged. In all, the practical implications of a church budget have spiritual meaning.
Tillman is passionate about helping his congregation to be able to fulfill their commitments within the church and outside of their walls. He knows one way to do that is to teach the importance of faithful and effective budgeting. He recalled a story of a dedicated parishioner and longtime church member who had passed away years prior. It was her desire to ensure her commitment to the church continued even after her passing. And her son was there to make sure her commitment was met. The very day she died, he was in communication with the church to ensure they received her regular contribution. He recalled it was a powerful display of both “love for her congregation and the discipline that she had to make sure those resources were available.” The ability to give generously and consistently is “an incredible thing to be able to do.”
Stewardship discussion is sometimes overlooked or avoided but Tillman strongly recommends congregants stay “critically engaged” with their donations through active church engagement. It is when people see the important work the church is doing, that they are moved to action. Tillman preaches that, “people believe in what they see,” and that giving and being involved are the cornerstones to a healthy, effective community church.
Giving is an act of faith which can have powerful results. And the Georgia United Methodist Foundation’s purpose is to maximize the effect of those financial contributions, ensuring we can make a powerful, long lasting impact for Christ.
