“Today’s stewardship symposium discussion has completely changed my attitude on Stewardship.”

“I couldn’t imagine sitting through a five-hour webinar on stewardship on a Friday” shared Christy Schwan who attended the January 29, 2021 LTSS Stewardship Symposium.  Schwan finished this thought by sharing: “As the new chairperson of Advent’s stewardship committee, today was practical, inspirational and motivating. This webinar removed all hesitancy I had regarding my new role. I’m excited about our future possibilities. All in the name of Christ.”

Schwan joined over 200 other congregational leaders from across the Southeast and well beyond for GSB’s 2021 Stewardship Symposium. Since this year was totally virtual, many from the mid-west and as far away as Nevada attended.

Michael Ward, author of Abundance: Creating a Culture of Generosity, a Fortress Press top seller in 2020, led the Symposium under the title of Living into a Culture of Abundance.  Attendees latched on to concepts of connecting stewardship to the story of what God is up to in people’s lives and inspiring stewardship beyond a financial transaction.  Jennifer Roberts proclaimed “As a seminary intern anticipating first call later this year I feel more empowered to talk about stewardship!”

GSB Fundraising is dedicated to creating a sense of community among congregations by creating opportunities for open dialogue. These methods are important for changing minds about stewardship and for growing a culture of generosity. Follow us to stay informed about future symposium programs.

Ward was joined in two different panel discussions at the symposium for a total of four pastors.  The practical concepts and real-life stories that culture changed around the idea of abundance is possible resonated with many.  Chris Peterson shared, “Today I gained even more insights, and had the opportunity to hear from others who are putting into practice the concepts that Abundance introduces. I thought I wouldn’t learn more, but I did, and I am even more enthusiastic about helping to lead our congregation on its generosity journey!”

Participants were invited to share the impact of this conference and here are a few of our favorites:

• This symposium has been very inspirational and gives me hope in helping our congregation become one of abundance rather than scarcity. Thank you for all of the ideas that were shared.  Donna Hoglund
• The conference has reinvigorated me to help move our congregational leadership to get to work on telling out ministry story in terms of outcomes and get to work on a strategic plan. Ramona Bouzard
• Seeing the joy in other clergy encourages me to stay faithful in this endeavor. Mary Finklea
• I’ve heard Mike talk about some of these concepts a number of times, but it’s so helpful to hear them over and over again. The lure of scarcity is so strong, but being reminded of God’s abundance and encouraged to be leaders who lean into and seek that abundance is something we should dwell in over and over again. Jesse Canniff Kuhn.

GSB Fundraising’s mission is strengthening charitable causes to change the world through generosity. At GSB Fundraising, we have a passion for philanthropy – the art of giving and asking for gifts. We have a large team of partners and consultants that make up GSB Fundraising. We are in the business of creating lasting relationships with organizations whose missions depend on creating a sense of stewardship among its members. Learn more about creating a culture of generosity here.

Located across the country, each consultant comes from a background in fundraising and drive to help non-profit organizations succeed. Talented partners and associates comprise the GSB Team – experts who can be drawn upon at a moment’s notice. It’s reassurance that your journey, no matter the bumps along the way, will be successful. You will reach your destination. Follow us on Facebook for more updates.