Creating Generous Givers - Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church

By: Rev. Melvin Amerson

In our culture and in many of our congregations the topic of money is avoided because it is viewed in our culture as too personal and not spiritual, even though money is referred to in over 2,300 verses in the Bible. In fact, many of Jesus’ parables were on money and possessions. Financially supporting our church is an integral part of discipleship and one of our vows for membership. God calls us to be generous.
Development of generous people and congregations is an intentional process that requires a year-round approach. I have five tips for churches who want to foster a culture of generosity:

Develop a theology of generosity
Model and lead generosity
Celebrate worship through giving
Create a year-round generosity/stewardship calendar filled with learning opportunities
Establish or promote your endowment

Foundations of Faith provides advice from Texas church pastors and its leadership on how to lead effectively. This blog is brought to you by the Communications Department of the Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. To be considered as a subject matter expert, contact Shannon W. Martin, Director of Communication at

One of the best ways to encourage bequests or promote endowments is to offer a “Putting Your House in Order” seminar, which often helps persons consider thinking about leaving legacy gifts.
“What’s My Line?” – I am devoted to helping believers grasp the “spirit of generosity” in order to support God’s kingdom building works.
Remember always, “to do good, to be rich in good deeds and willing to share.” (I Timothy 6:18)

The Rev. Melvin Amerson is the Senior Area Representative/Resource Specialist at the Texas Methodist Foundation in Austin, Texas. But his deepest passion lies in developing generous disciples and cultures of generosity in local churches. His credentials include:
BBA Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, MDiv- Gammon Theological Seminary, Executive Leadership Certificate-Cornell University, Professional Fundraising Certificate-Boston University, Ecumenical Stewardship Center- Board Member, Author of: Celebrating the Offering, Fruit for Celebrating the Offering, Stewardship in African American Churches: A new Paradigm.