Glossary
Church Specific

Stewardship

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
June 2, 2025

DEFINITION:

Stewardship is the careful and responsible management of a church's resources to fulfill its mission and benefit its community.
Stewardship in a church context refers to the responsible management and care of the resources—financial, physical, and human—that the congregation has been entrusted with. This concept emphasizes the duty of church members and leaders to use donations, assets, and talents in ways that fulfill the church’s mission, support its ministries, and benefit its community. Stewardship extends beyond financial giving to include time, volunteerism, and the preservation of church property. It often involves cultivating a culture of generosity, transparency, and accountability within the congregation to ensure that resources are used ethically and effectively in service to faith-based objectives.

Key Takeaways

  • Stewardship covers financial, physical, and human resources.
  • It fosters accountability and transparency in church operations.
  • Good stewardship supports the church's mission and community impact.

Why It Matters

Stewardship builds trust and ensures resources are used wisely to advance the church’s mission.

Real World Example

A local church launches a building renovation project and encourages members to contribute through both monetary donations and volunteer labor. The leadership uses Aplos to track every donation, expense, and volunteer hour, then shares regular updates with the congregation. This transparency not only ensures funds are used as intended but also builds trust and encourages continued support. By responsibly managing resources and communicating progress, the church practices effective stewardship, strengthening its mission and relationship with its members.

How Aplos Helps

Aplos provides tools that help churches track donations, manage budgets, and report on financial stewardship. By using Aplos, church leaders can easily demonstrate transparency and accountability in how gifts and tithes are allocated, supporting a culture of responsible stewardship.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is stewardship in a church?

Stewardship is the responsible management of a church's resources, including finances, property, and people, to support its mission.

How does stewardship differ from tithing?

Tithing refers specifically to giving a portion of income to the church, while stewardship covers the broader management of all church resources.

How can Aplos help with church stewardship?

Aplos offers tools for tracking donations, managing budgets, and reporting, which help churches practice transparency and responsible stewardship.