2026 Workshops

In-Person attendees will select one workshop per workshop block, on the registration page.

A-11, A-12, B-11, B-12, C-11, C-12, D-11, and D-12 will be live-streamed for online participants, and the recordings will be available to all in-person and virtual participants.

Detailed Workshop Descriptions are below, click "Read More" under each Workshop Block.

Workshop Block A: Monday 4:00 PM

A-11 Weaving Stewardship into Worship Throughout the Church Year, Dana Waters, Presbyterian Foundation How do we talk about generosity in worship outside of stewardship season? This workshop will help worship leaders explore practical ways to incorporate stewardship and giving into a congregation’s worship life through every church season. This will include sermon ideas, sample worship themes and liturgy, and suggestions for involving lay leadership. Participants will leave with worship resources for every time of year.
Congregations of any size would benefit. Pastors and worship leaders would get the most out of the workshop. It will build on participants' knowledge of worship planning and help them incorporate stewardship and generosity into their ongoing work.
(Recording- available live and post conference)

A-12 Making Sense of Congregational Finances: Findings from Wave II of the National Study of Congregations’ Economic Practices, Erica Dollhopf, Lake Institute on Faith and Giving How have congregational finances changed since the pandemic and what does that mean for our stewardship practices in the local church? This workshop features a first look at the findings from wave II of the National Study of Congregations’ Economic Practices (NSCEP), and will examine how congregations are currently receiving, managing, and spending their resources. In focusing on the same congregations since 2018, we will share how resources and stewardship practices have changed. In addition, this presentation will offer leaders questions to reflect on, regarding their own congregational settings to strategically think about their church’s financial future. This workshop will primarily benefit congregational leaders (both clergy and lay), especially those involved in church finances and stewardship. The content will be relevant to congregations of all sizes.
(Recording- available live and post conference)

A-14 Stewarding Church Properties for the Future: (Re)Development to maximize the use of buildings as a tool to fund and carry-out ministry, Tom Affleck and Karen Plater, The Presbyterian Church in Canada Join us as we share how the denomination is helping congregations explore the feasibility of redevelopment of the buildings and property to better participate in God’s mission, rooted in specific case studies. Tom will share the story and lessons learned in his past 10 years working with a downtown congregation in Toronto on a project that has revitalized its historic building and made room for a multi-unit residential development on a section of their property. Both Tom and Karen will then share applicable lessons as they support other congregations re-examining their properties and draw out and share best practices/learnings.

A-15 Toward an Equitable Stewardship: Honoring Diverse Financial Realities in Our Congregations, Eunbee Ham, Madison Square Presbyterian Church This workshop explores how our varied financial histories, cultural backgrounds, and lived realities shape the way we experience stewardship. Many congregations speak about generosity without fully acknowledging the burdens people carry, the different starting points they come from, or the emotional weight money often holds. Together we will name the diversity of stories in our pews, consider how class, gender, family patterns, migration experiences, and other dynamics shape each person’s relationship with money, and imagine a more inclusive way of approaching stewardship that meets people where they actually are. This workshop is well suited for pastors, stewardship teams, and lay leaders from both small and large congregations. Participants will leave with language, practices, and perspectives that help them talk about money with greater compassion, honesty, and care.

A-16 Planned Giving Mixology, Stephanie Burke, Marianne Brock, ELCA Foundation Peanut butter & jelly, apples & cheddar, steamed crabs & beer... sometimes the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. The same can be true with planned gifts. Come explore creative ways that planned giving vehicles can be combined to maximize your donors' generosity.

A-17 Sustainable Stewardship in Small Town and Rural Congregations, Grace Pomroy, Luther Seminary Curious what the future of church funding looks like in small town and rural communities? Join Grace Pomroy as she unveils her latest research with rural and small town congregations who have shifted their economic models to better align with their congregations’ mission. From starting social enterprises to utilizing their church's land in new ways, these congregations are finding more sustainable ways to reconnect with their communities and share the gospel. Leaders from urban, suburban, and rural communities all welcome!

A-18 Good Governance = Good Stewardship: Creating a Sound Investment Policy, Brad Masters and Ryan Cassidy, New Covenant Trust Rotating groups of people stewarding funds which don't belong to them creates challenging dynamics. This workshop emphasizes the importance of having good governance/policies to mitigate risks that could arise in the management of church funds.

Workshop Block B: Tuesday 10:45 AM

B-11 Save the Date: Building An Activity-Focused Stewardship Calendar, Ryan Ebner, ELCA Foundation Discover a way to design a practical stewardship marketing strategy that will allow your stewardship, endowment, or finance committee to log meaningful touchpoints throughout the year. We will explore an innovative way to approach communications with your congregation members, obtain access to real marketing resources, and learn the support systems in place to help you increase the results from your ongoing stewardship efforts. Come away from this workshop with the knowledge of how to easily build a calendar that provides you with time-oriented, achievable activities aimed at growing generosity in your congregation.
(Recording- available live and post conference)

B-12 Policies, Purpose and Performance: Endowments Done Right, Jake Wilson, Texas Presbyterian Foundation Endowments and permanent funds help congregations and nonprofits move from short-term budgeting to long-term sustainability. This session explains how they work, why clear purpose and strong policies matter, and shares practical case studies and best practices for launching and stewarding them well.
(Recording- available live and post conference)

B-14 Beyond the Box: Creating a Stewardship Series for the Church You Actually Have, Carol Holbrook Prickett, Crescent Springs Presbyterian Church This workshop applies to both lay leaders and clergy responsible for the designing & writing of corporate prayers for the bulletin. This workshop also aids both clergy and lay persons called upon to preach a stewardship sermon at any time of the year. The content is basic, and useful during annual or capital campaigns. It is appropriate for small, medium, and large congregations of any denomination.

B-15 Parish Properties: the Art of the Possible, Graham Singh and Dave Harder, Releven Local congregations face huge challenges with their properties. This practical workshop gives a snapshot into some of the key tools for successful planning for increased rental and partnerships, community hubs, housing and more. Based on the 'Art of the Possible' from North America's leading team in the adaptive re-use and development of faith-based properties, Dave Harder and Graham Singh from the Releven team walk through steps and strategies suitable for congregational board chairs, treasurers, large and small congregations, diocesan / synod executives and more.

B-16 Making the Case: Inspiring Generosity Through Story and Purpose, Michael Erwin, Church Campaign Services A strong Narrative Case is essential for any fundraising endeavor. This will be a hands-on workshop, and participants will learn a simple framework for turning project needs into a mission-centered narrative that inspires generosity. They will come away with a draft narrative case for their own church or organization. Those who would benefit include Pastors, ruling elders, stewardship teams, and campaign leaders preparing for a potential capital campaign in the next 1–3 years. Small and mid-sized congregations especially, though the framework can apply to churches of all sizes. This workshop is suitable for basic to intermediate experience levels—no fundraising or writing background needed.

B-17 Creating a Secure and Risk Aware Church: Harnessing The Power of Hello, Chad Cunningham, Insurance Board This workshop focuses on de-escalation, Church Safety, and Protecting Your Ministry from an Active Threat by being Risk Aware. This workshop will discuss the various positive impacts of greeting attendees at your congregation, welcoming congregants and reducing likelihood of those who might otherwise cause harm. To create a culture of risk-aware leadership, this workshop will delve into specific examples of how the Power of Hello works, and when and how it should be implemented. Since Church Leaders are responsible for the people, property, vehicles, and other risks associated within their ministry and congregation, creating a culture of leaders with the mindset to avoid and mitigate risks can improve member and community relations at your congregation.
Learning outcomes include: Practical examples of the Power of Hello for ministries, De-escalation techniques to reduce the likelihood of harm, and Considerations for creating a secure church.

B-18 STEWARDSHIP & STORYTELLING: Stories That Connect, Karen Kretschmann, ELCA Grounded in the Parable of the Sower, this workshop explores how story brings ministry alive, deepens engagement, and grows generosity. Jesus’ parables did more than convey information—they drew listeners in, were based in experience, and allowed truth to take root. In the same way, engaging storytelling in ministry creates space for folks to see themselves in the message and respond with openness. Participants will discover how stories function as powerful tools for connection, helping messages move from abstract ideas to lived experience. We will explore how basic but powerful questions can elicit stories that spark imagination and invite participation rather than passive listening. We will also highlight the role of generosity—of spirit, giving, and imagination—in storytelling. When storytellers are open to the spirit, their stories come alive, creating authenticity and trust. Through discussion and practical exercises, participants will explore how generous storytelling cultivates good soil where faith, connections, and transformation can grow. We welcome any ministry leader interested in exploring basic but creative ways to listen for stories and develop easy methods for storytelling and generosity.

Workshop Block C: Tuesday 3:15 PM

C-11 Purple Church, Red State: Leading a church and stewardship in an age of polarization, Greg Allen-Pickett, First Presbyterian Church of Hastings This workshop is designed for both clergy and lay leaders who love and serve politically and theologically diverse "purple churches." Whether you serve a small congregation or a large one, many of us are navigating similar challenges in an increasingly polarized culture. Together, we will explore how one purple church has approached potentially divisive topics, including conversations around stewardship, with courage, humility, and hope. We will discuss practical strategies for fostering trust and cultivating meaningful engagement across differences in deeply divided times. If you are serving a purple church and longing for faithful, practical ways to lead toward generosity and unity, this conversation is for you.
(Recording- available live and post conference)

C-12 Tapping Community Funding: How to message your capital project for external support, Sara Lyn Jones, ELCA As congregational membership declines and ages, traditional fundraising for maintenance and capital projects is becoming outdated. While congregation members will always be the strongest donors, there are many other potential supporters beyond the walls who can – and will – support the facilities. Clergy and lay finance team members will learn about different sources of funding available through local stakeholders and new strategies for outreach and fundraising. They will also learn how to message their church and project to a new audience in order to expand support for capital projects.
(Recording- available live and post conference)

C-14 You Want Me to Donate? Why? Building Blocks for an Impactful Appeal, Peter Reuss, GSB Fundraising This workshop will provide practical steps for building a case for support in annual giving, capital campaigns, or special fundraising. Topics will include methods for inviting lead gifts, wealth screening, and ways to build momentum throughout your appeal.

C-15 Making Generous Disciples: Stewardship as Faith Formation, Kyle Nolan, Presbyterian Foundation Churches need an approach to stewardship that begins and ends with discipleship. This workshop will outline a theology of generosity that does just that, while offering strategies and tactics that church leaders can use to make generous disciples in their own congregations.

C-16 From Pews to Phones: Modern Stewardship Strategies That Work, Kristi Posewitz, Texas Presbyterian Foundation Stewardship communication works best when it feels like an invitation, not a transaction. This session offers a generational lens, messaging best practices, and practical tools to share impact stories and expand generosity across platforms.

C-17 Basic Best Practices for Church Treasurers, Edd Breeden, Presbytery of San Jose For all sized congregations, this workshop will cover many best practices of internal controls for church finances, helping pastors and church leaders keep accurate records, report various forms of income and expenses, avoid potential fraud, and have appropriate policies and procedures.

C-18 Consensus, Clarity, and Courage: The 3Cs of Property Discernment, Sandra Moon, Corey Schlosser-Hall, Presbyterian Foundation/Presbyterian Life and Witness PC(USA) Church properties carry deep spiritual, community, and historical significance. Yet changing neighborhoods, congregational demographics, and finances contribute to reshaping how these spaces are used. This workshop will help to equip congregational leaders to prayerfully, thoughtfully, and sometimes playfully discern the future of their property. Participants will explore tools and guiding questions that foster consensus, bring clarity to values and options, and cultivate the courage needed to make informed, mission-aligned decisions. Designed for clergy and lay leaders, the workshop supports churches in stewarding their property in ways that honor their calling and respond creatively to a changing world. Join us in discovering what might be possible when sacred space meets sacred purpose.

Workshop Block D: Wednesday 9:00 AM

D-11 God is Doing a New Thing: Innovative, Missional, and Sustainable Property Stewardship, Clayton Thomas and Carl Horton, Presbyterian Investment and Loan Program From affordable housing to health clinics to food banks, churches are answering the call to be faithful stewards of church buildings and campuses. The energy around innovative use of property is palpable, but turning vision into reality takes careful planning and hard work. This workshop will help to equip congregations with various options and solutions to finance social impact initiatives that utilize their church campus. Such projects could include affordable housing, food pantries etc. (Recording- available live and post conference)

D-12 All the Pieces Working Together: Integrating Generosity, Discipleship, and Asset Stewardship, Joe Park, Erica Allen, Steve Lindsley, Horizons Stewardship Many congregations don’t lack commitment - they lack integration. Stewardship efforts often become fragmented: annual giving gets framed as “the budget,” capital work shows up as “a special project,” planned giving is “someday,” discipleship lives in another lane, and building decisions get reduced to maintenance needs or crisis response. Leaders end up carrying multiple messages at once, and congregations feel the strain: mixed priorities, donor fatigue, financial anxiety, and a creeping sense that stewardship is more about keeping things afloat than joining God’s mission. Integration changes the story. When annual, capital, and legacy giving are connected to one clear vision, and embedded in discipleship, people are invited into a unified response to grace.
(Recording- available live and post conference)

D-13 Narrative Budgets: Telling the Story Behind Each Line Item, Lexy Steinle, Bethlehem Lutheran Church Some things are easier to fund than others. The local homeless shelter seems more in line for what Jesus calls us to give to than lights, floor wax, and water bills. And yet, even these "less attractive" line items help tell the story of the church's mission in the world today. This workshop will introduce Narrative Budgets, show examples of multiple ways this tool can be used in a variety of contexts, and walk through what putting together one in your church could look like! Lay and clergy members will find helpful tools for ministries of all sizes. Participants will receive a worksheet walking them through what they need to start the Narrative Budget process.

D-14 Inviting Generosity: Engaging Holy Emotions Before Making the Ask, Andrew Steele, Global Refuge Rooted in faith and innovation, this workshop focuses on how congregations of any size can invite generosity by first engaging in the ‘holy emotions’ in their faith community. We’ll explore how introducing low-lift activities that spark curiosity and belonging can help connect members to mission, while also seeing how to build bridges towards more high-touch practices that nurture relationships and sustain stewardship. Concrete examples and ideas will be shared by Global Refuge, (formerly known as Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service,) which was able to increase giving from congregations by over 100% in 2025 over 2024. Participants will gain practical ideas to grow awareness, strengthen connection to mission, and encourage giving as a joyful response to faith. This workshop will help share ideas for rostered and lay leaders alike.

D-15 Mission Statement, Core Values, and Stewardship, Rev. Dewey Johnson, Rio Grande Presbyterian Church This workshop addresses how a congregation's mission statement (what it does) and core values (how it does it) can provide a natural context for conversations, preaching, and teaching about stewardship. Ex. “We Show Christ to the City," and we do so in part by "Generosity in Giving." For pastors and lay persons of all sized congregations, we will explore the potential of a variety of mission statements and core values, sermon segments and teaching moments.

D-16 Worshiping God with Gratitude through Liturgy and Preaching, Karen L. Rogers, Broadmoor Presbyterian Church This workshop focuses on composing liturgy and sermons that highlight grateful and generous stewardship. Designed for lay persons and clergy responsible for the liturgy in bulletins and the preaching of the sermon, this workshop provides basic tools for writing prayers of confession of sin, prayers of dedication, and sermons, appropriate for any size congregation, of any denomination. The session will spend time on designing prayers using a particular format adaptable to various kinds of corporate prayers. The session will also spend time on developing sermons, particularly centered on identifying themes based upon the generosity of God and our grateful response. Workshop attendees will practice utilizing the prayer format in writing prayers during the workshop. Also, attendees will work on sermon outlines utilizing the tools provided. Participants will return home with tools to use and examples from the session.

D-17 Planned Giving 101: A Basic Program, Karl Mattison, Presbyterian Foundation This is planned giving for both pastors and lay leaders in any size church. We'll cover why planned giving, what's the opportunity, and a simple program: 1. Why Planned Giving Thrills Givers- It may sound lofty, but if planned giving doesn’t excite people, we’re missing the message. Discover how it creates joy and purpose for donors—helping them leave a lasting legacy that reflects their faith and values. 2. The Opportunity for Our Churches- Explore data and real examples that reveal how significant planned giving is—and why even one gift can transform a congregation’s future. 3. A Simple Program That Works- Learn a practical calendar and messaging plan for churches of any size, with proven steps to help members feel inspired to make these gifts.

D-18 Personal Stewardship Based in Respectful Listening - Asking the Right Questions, Wesley Rediger, First Presbyterian Church of Hartford City In this workshop we'll discuss ways to begin, sustain, and "close" one-on-one conversations and group discussions about personal giving with a mission/vision-driven purpose. We'll review effective wording that communicates respect and blessings of giving, utilizing small groups and reporting sharing success stories and potential pitfalls. Summarize learnings and project action steps for next ten days and ten months.