Q&A with Guy Russ, assistant vice president – Risk Control at Church Mutual Insurance Company Why should a church consider opening its facility as a temporary shelter? Russ: Emergency shelters and transitional living arrangements are important ways churches can help those in need. This includes providing living arrangements within worship centers, fellowship halls and educational […]
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After struggling with the emotional and financial impacts of an international pandemic for over a year, churches and nonprofits are turning their attention to the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) for additional help and support. The Employee Retention Credit, under the CARES Act, encourages businesses to keep employees on their payroll by providing a tax credit […]
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A long-time church lending expert talks about how churches navigated COVID-era financing challenges — and the lessons they’ll carry forward. Tell me about WatersEdge and your history with the company. Jerry Vaughan: WatersEdge Ministry Services (formerly The Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma) has been making loans to churches since 1953. Personally, I’ve been here almost 21 […]
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By Eric Scalise, Ph.D., LPC, LMFT Years ago, I used to do quite a bit of rock climbing when I lived in California. I also worked with at-risk teens, most of whom lacked any meaningful connections in their lives. There are a number of critical voice commands climbers use, especially when there is limited or […]
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By Tiffany Self How do we care for our communities well amid isolation, racial tension, and economic uncertainty? In light of what’s going on in the world today, we clearly need to humbly plead for God’s help and guidance as we recognize that our world needs places where people can feel heard and respected, but […]
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By Brian Miller “How clean is my church?” It’s a thought that might not have been top of mind for many before the pandemic. Now, however, it’s a critical question that deserves an accurate answer. Church cleaning came under the microscope over the past year due to the spread of COVID-19 among congregants. The Centers for Disease […]
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By Mark Landrigan, CPA Nonprofit churches, schools, colleges, camps and ministries are among those who could benefit from a payroll tax credit that offers financial relief during the coronavirus pandemic. Here is an overview of the federal Employee Retention Credit, its eligibility requirements, and how to claim the credit. What is the ERC? The Employee […]
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With 41% of Americans reporting symptoms of depression or anxiety attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s no wonder religious leaders also are feeling more stressed than ever before. Many of you are facing heightened needs from your members and the community while also managing personal stressors — balancing family needs, financial concerns and an increasing […]
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By Katie Albrecht How do you adjust for new growth in your church? As a leader, you might believe that the more people you accommodate, the more room your facility needs. However, before you look at building on additional facility space, consider the resources you already have. Proper stewardship of your environment typically entails careful […]
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If summer is the season for fun in the sun, then spring is the time to prepare for that wonderful time of togetherness, outdoor activities, and faith-filled fellowship. Of course, this summer again will be different for camps and faith-based organizations due to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The best way to get […]
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