Financial downturn brings opportunity…

I have been writing exclusively on the topic of coaching and what I am learning about this process of building leadership excellence, but I want to take a short break and  discuss the opportunity we have as leaders in the area of stewardship.  Natural Church Development teaches us that every situation we confront in ministry can be an opportunity.  Our country and the world is in economic fear and collapse.  The topic of conversation at the gym every morning is about job loss or financial pain.  Several of our churches are facing difficult decisions as a result of the downturn in the economy and the downturn of giving.  At the same time that we are experiencing these negative forces, we have an opportunity.

The principle of “Energy Transformation” is the key to empowering this opportunity.  Even negative forces can be tapped for positive gain.  For example, I can be wiped out by a strong ocean wave, or I can learn to ride the same “destructive” wave with a surf board, and enjoy the ride.  How can we as spiritual leaders use the negative and failing economy to move people forward in their faith?  I believe this is an important topic of conversation, and I hope to see many people blogging on this topic. 

Let me share with you what one church is planning to do this month.  The church recognized that many people have less dollars to spend and that many families can no longer put food on the table.  They have taken that negative energy and used it to launch a food program with Angel Food Ministries.  Through this organization, the church can provide $65 dollars worth of groceries for $30 (feeds a family of 4 for one full week).  The menu includes a healthy diet of meat, dairy, bread, etc.  The church simply takes the orders and then picks up the boxes of food for distribution once a week.  The program has no restrictions on who can order so church members as well as community members can participate.  Way to go Christ Community Church in Newton and Pastor Frank Leone!

You can see how this could help people and the church in the community.  Members are saving $35 per week (church of 100 families could save $3,500 per week).  The community is served and the church is experienced by the community as a compassionate people.   People in the church could even purchase a box of food for someone they know has lost their job.  This organization even takes food stamps, so those on public assistance can maximize their purchases.  Additionally, this is a great way to get a small group into community service. 

I hope you will post your ideas on how you are turning this financial crisis into an opportunity to advance the gospel of Christ.