A new chapter in congregational stewardship
What began as a concern about sustainability became a story of generosity and growth, as Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren reimagined stewardship with Spirit-led vision
Stewardship Consultant Marlene Kroeker, left, discusses stewardship with Pastor Ken Miller Rieman and other leaders of Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren (Photo by Brian Yoder Schlabach, Everence)
Years ago, Prince of Peace Church of the Brethren, often wondered if they would meet their budget, much less if they had money for ambitions outside of the day-to-day operations of the church.
But in 2023, Prince of Peace, located in South Bend, Indiana, experienced a budget surplus. In addition to its annual giving, the congregation donated more than $20,000 to local and national nonprofits.
In just under two years, Prince of Peace has seen a growing transformation in its stewardship ministry and the attitudes in which attenders discuss giving.
Pastor Ken Miller Rieman credits this transformation to the “Spirit-led confluence of evaluating our ministries, naming our needs, looking for help, studying best practices and trying new things.”
Chuck Harper shares his testimony – a story of where he sees God at work. (Photo by Brian Yoder Schlabach, Everence)
The change in the church’s attitude toward stewardship is also thanks to the Everence Stewardship Partners program, which helps churches develop a healthy financial stewardship ministry around their needs.
Prince of Peace joined the program in early 2023 and worked with Marlene Kroeker, Everence Stewardship Consultant, who provided the church’s Stewardship Education Team with exercises and activities that could help increase stewardship amongst church attenders.
“Marlene listened, modeled curiosity and wondered along with us… She invited us to envision how things could be and encouraged our experimentation and consideration of what we’ve learned to make work,” he added.
Marlene attributes part of Prince of Peace’s stewardship success to Ken’s leadership and buy-in during the process, as well as the Stewardship Education Team’s willingness to be curious and try new things.
“They got it,” Marlene said. “They see the importance in stewardship.”
The Everence Stewardship Partners program can provide congregations with personalized guidance to help form and grow their stewardship ministry. Connect with an Everence stewardship consultant today.