Transformative Tools: February 2022 Vestry Papers
Dear Friends,
This month we continue to bring transformative tools and resources to equip you in your ministry. When we think of tools, we don’t often consider networks, communities and other resources we can use in collaboration with others. In this issue, we highlight traditional tools, as well as relationship-building and partnership-focused ideas to consider that will enrich our learning and service to our Church.
ECF360 is a new low-cost self-service subscription site for comprehensive fundraising for your Episcopal community of faith, brought to you by the Episcopal Church Foundation. Access resources on stewardship and annual giving, capital campaigns, planned giving and more.
Since 1964 the Episcopal Church Foundation has supported more than two hundred scholars and ministry leaders throughout the Episcopal Church, fostering innovation in theological formation and ministerial leadership in challenging times. In Resources from ECF Fellows, we highlight several transformative resources from past ECF Fellows to support your ministry.
Have you considered how being a part of a network of like-minded individuals with similar interests may open you to new ideas and strengthen your ministry? In Gathering of Leaders and the Power of Networks, Haley Bankey shares the purpose of Gathering of Leaders and points to other networks in the Episcopal Church for you to consider.
Interested in exploring missional opportunities in your church neighborhood? In Neighborhood Missional Intelligence Report, Ken Howard lists two data-rich resources that allow you to glean insights into the communities around you and help you to serve them more effectively.
Strong lay and clergy leadership teams are at the heart of thriving Episcopal congregations. These teams start with the vestry. Whether you’re a first time vestry member or a seasoned veteran, the Vestry Resource Guide offers approaches for leaders of faith communities to consider and tailor to meet their own needs. Topics include the ministry of the vestry, leading a community of faith, stewardship, and navigating transitions in clergy leadership. The Vestry Resource Guide is available in English or Spanish, and in both print and e-book formats. Please click here for more information.
To learn more about ECF and our programs, please visit our website.
Faithfully,
Charis Bhagianathan
Editor, ECF Vital Practices