May 6, 2012 – Fifth Sunday of Easter

Gracious God, Sustainer of all we know and all we don't know. You have called us as children and heirs to be stewards of so much that you have entrusted to us -- stewards of the gifts, prayers, and presence we have offered to you this morning; but equally the prayers, service, and witness we might offer in the week ahead of us. Help us be like Philip as he traveled on the wilderness road to Gaza, ready to witness to those who are willing to travel alongside us on the journey. We know that as stewards of the story of your love and grace made real in Christ Jesus, it is a treasure we cannot keep, only give away. In Christ, we pray. Amen. (Acts 8:26-40)

May 13, 2012 – Sixth Sunday of Easter

Holy God our loving parent: You sent your beloved Son into the world, and Christ in turn sends us into the world. Like well-cared-for children, we live in the world, but pray you would help us not be children of this world, but rather of your heavenly kingdom. We sometimes find it hard to be generous in uncertain economic times, but we know that these gifts we offer to you this day are just a small part of the abundance you have poured down upon us. We do ask that these might be used to help build your kingdom of love here on earth, and that our hearts and hands might also be used to do that building – in our communities and in our global village. We pray in your Son's blessed and exalted name. Amen. (John 17:6-9)

May 20, 2012 – Seventh Sunday of Easter/Ascension Sunday

Loving God, the Psalmist knew that if we keep our minds and hearts focused on you, we would become like trees planted by streams, bearing fruit and prospering in all the things of this life that really matter. May our offering of these gifts to you be a reminder to us that sometimes we need to let go of things of earthly value, so that we can hold fast to the treasures that endure! We pray this in the name of Jesus, our rock and redeemer. Amen. (Psalm 1)

May 27, 2012 – Day of Pentecost

Mighty God of wind and flame, as we offer our gifts this morning, we give ourselves as well. May your Holy Spirit stir in us the gifts you have richly poured down upon us: voices to proclaim your gracious love, compassion to soothe the hurting and unloved, vision to dream of the kingdom you might build on earth if we make ourselves available to you. Forgive our thinking that there is a scarcity of resources to be the church you've called us to be, and help us to see the abundance you have in us! We pray this in your holy name, above us, with us, and within us. Amen. (Acts 2:1-21)

Written by Ken Sloane, Director of Stewardship for GBOD.

See the full list of videos from the Stewardship Academy here.

Are You "On the Hook" for Your Deceased Relatives' Debt?

In the midst of grieving the loss of a loved one, you’re probably not going to think about who will be responsible for outstanding debts. Surviving relatives are not legally responsible for outstanding debts unless the deceased was your spouse. But there are still some exceptions to that rule, so be sure to contact your attorney before you act.

If you’re contacted by a debt collector, provide only the name and contact information for the deceased’s personal representative (Executor/Executrix). Be careful not to divulge your personal information. It could be a scam!

If the debt collector persists, write a “cease and desist” letter asking them to stop. Make a copy of the letter and send it “return receipt requested.” Now the collector may only legally contact you to tell you there will be no more contact, or about an action that will be taken, such as filing a lawsuit.

Debt collectors aren’t legally allowed to release information to anyone other than the deceased’s spouse, parent or guardian. They’re also forbidden from harassing you or lying in an effort to collect debts. If you think they’ve broken the law, consult your attorney.

Coming Up

Mark your calendars for our 2012 District Breakfast Town Meetings. These meetings are designed to share the resources we offer and answer your investment questions. We will be announcing the locations by letter and e-mail. Each Breakfast will be held from 8:30 AM until about 10:00 AM. We hope you can join us!

• January 13 - Chambersburg
• February 24 - Harrisburg and New Cumberland
• March 30 - Lewisburg and Williamsport
• April 13 - Wellsboro
• May 11 - Scranton and Wilkes Barre
• June 15 - Altoona and State College

We are also preparing some new options for the spring! Look for more information about our Electronic Funds Transfer Training (February 23, 24, and 25) and Extravagant Generosity Program (April 14). In the fall, we’ll be presenting two Capital Campaign Seminars (September 26 and 27) and a new “take” on our Clergy Tax and Compensation Conference (October 12). We also look forward to hosting our first Stewardship Academy Reunion (October 13).