The Transforming Stewards Program

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may prove what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect” Romans 12:2

The Transforming Stewards Program offers comprehensive, in depth stewardship consulting services to congregations in the Massachusetts Conference, United Church of Christ to assist them in becoming a Stewardship Church.

What is a Stewardship Church?

A Stewardship Church:

1. Helps people grow in their understanding and practice of giving as an act of faith and discipleship;
2. Helps people grow in their understanding and practice of being stewards of all God has given them as it relates to the Christian Way of life, including issues such as vocation, care of the environment, life styles, money management, call and ministry;
3. Provides opportunities for people to practice faithful discipleship through annual giving, planned giving and periodically, capital gifts in support of Christ’s mission;
4. Helps to connect people in mission in the wider community and the world through hands-on projects and financial support of local community and wider ministries including all five Our Church’s Wider Mission offerings. All the wonderful ministries and missions being accomplished through their giving is communicated effectively to all in the church;
5. The church is a faithful steward of its resources through its adoption and implementation of appropriate endowment, investment and financial policies and practices, and it provides accurate and understandable financial reports;

 Program Benefits:

• Heightened awareness within the congregation of stewardship as integral to the Christian Way of Life;
• A comprehensive year-round plan which will involve all parts of your church;
• Greater understanding, knowledge and support of the local and wider ministries of the church;
• Greater commitment from members in their financial support of the church and it ministries;
• A Planned giving program and a plan for a capital campaign, as appropriate;
• Sound financial policies, practices and clear financial reporting

The Process:

Step One: The Stewardship Consultant will perform a comprehensive assessment of where your church is doing well and where it can grow in the area of stewardship.

Step Two: The Stewardship Consultant will assist your church in developing a comprehensive plan which will put it on the path towards becoming a Stewardship Church.

Step Three: The Stewardship Consultant will continue to coach your church through the implementation of the plan.

This program is made available through the generous support of churches such as yours to Our Church’s Wider Mission Basic Support and Fellowship Dues. As part of participating in this program, your church will be asked to covenant with the Massachusetts Conference, United Church of Christ. As your part in this covenant you will be asked to:

1. Participate in the assessment and Stewardship Plan development process
2. Provide a “ministry team” to work with the Consultant in implementing your plan

    3.Commit 10% of the increase in giving that follows participation in this     program to OCWM Basic Support so that this program can then be offered to other churches in the Conference.

To apply to participate in this program, contact Andrew Gustafson, Associate Conference Minister for Stewardship and Financial Development of the Massachusetts Conference, United Church of Christ at (508) 875-5233 or by e-mail to gustafsona@macucc.org