Abundance: Creating a Culture of Generosity

by Michael R. Ward

This book by pastor and certified fund raising executive (CFRE) Michael R. Ward provides church leaders a resource to lead their congregations to a new culture of generosity and abundance that raises more money as well as more disciples. Written specifically with pastors, congregation councils, finance committees, and stewardship teams in mind, this book encourages and guides a process of study, reflection, and action that is clear and practical. Ward taps into years of experience fundraising in the nonprofit sector to address the ongoing challenges of financing ministry. His goal is to empower congregations and other nonprofit organizations to expect and plan for generosity.

The book moves from grounding stewardship ministry biblically and theologically to setting up the basic building blocks for strong stewardship, including board development, stewardship planning, and strategic planning. From there, it addresses practical tactics, such as case development, communication, donor mentality, roadblocks, volunteers, and steps to a gift.

Real-life stories and examples of growing stewardship programs and capital campaigns are provided along with practical hands-on tools to help groups plan, develop, and implement stewardship plans.

201 pages, Paperback

Published January 7, 2020

Reviews

[Andrew Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ward’s book highlights the necessity to dove deep into our financial stewardship practices as individuals and communities, rooting it in our belief that God is indeed abundant and in Matthew 6:21, where Jesus says in his Kingdom-ethic sermon, “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Yet, rather than admonishing, Ward leads us on a path to seeing fundraising and stewardship as ministry, building off of Henri Nouwen’s insights on the topic. Ward’s perspective makes conversations about stewarding the treasures given to us invitational and, dare I say, fun! Excited to use the insights offered here in ministry as we follow our God of wonderful abundance!

[Wesley Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a member of the church council at a church that is coming out of some tough financial times and is on the upswing, Abundance is a very different look at how to inspire and motivate people to be generous and increase their giving. If gives me a lot to think about and a lot for our church council to work with. I need to get my own copy!

[Monika Schrock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent summary of effective ministry with practical steps for leaders to take in making themselves more effective and assist in teaching their congregation how to grow in faith while producing the fruits of ministry in their mission.

[Care · Rating 5 out of 5]

A grace filled book with a good blend of theoretical and practical insights on stewardship.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book! Great for churches!

[H Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Effective presentation of useful items

[Morgan Walker Annable · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic framework with practical guidelines for stewardship and fundraising in congregations!