Not Your Parents' Offering Plate Book Study 

Pastors, please join your pastoral colleagues for a study of Clif Christopher's book, Not Your Parents' Offering Plate. The presbytery will offer two time choices: 4 Tuesdays at 1 pm May 10-31, OR 4 Wednesdays at 7 pm May 11-June 1. Each session will last 50 minutes.

It is best if you attend the same time slot all four times.

Please order the book from your preferred source.   At this writing, it is $9 or less, plus shipping.  The 2015 edition is the one we'll use for our discussion.

What others say about their experience of the study:

"I assume that most people don’t spend a lot of time thinking about their stewardship. This book gives you reasons to think about what you do and why, as an individual or family and as a church. The book is a quick read for a quiet evening, but you’ll want someone handy to discuss your reactions to its main ideas. Surprises are in store!"  Beth Kick, Stated Clerk, John Calvin Presbytery

Christopher "spells out the top reasons people give.  Donors, today, say that churches need to earn their gifts. Churches have only one thing to sell—changed lives. The author also gives suggestions of how to divide the congregation in order to send appropriate financial letters and thank you notes. He gives the top eleven things he recommends to raise stewardship in the church. And finally, he says that “if a person is not giving, this is a clear signal that their soul is sick.'"  Toni Spieth, elder, FPC, Joplin, and Council Moderator

"I found the book to be very clear, helpful, and to the point. By introducing some new ideas, the author helped me see how to improve education for stewardship and discipleship. The book provided opportunities for good discussion, and I would suggest our congregations and their Sessions consider reading it."  Diane Cooke, pastor, Willow Springs and Mountain View churches; COM member

"This book is a wonderful example of why relational ministry is so important. The belief in the mission creates the energy and vision to share with others so they are moved to be a part of something special. Belief in the mission, belief in the leadership and belief in the way one can make a positive impact through the mission is bringing light to their congregation, community and beyond."  Reina Daleske, elder, St. Andrew, Kimberling City, and COM Moderator