Book review of Madam C.J. Walker’s Gospel of Giving: Black women’s philanthropy during Jim Crow by Tyrone McKinley Freeman.

This book explodes the narrow definition of philanthropy as something only rich white people do.

“I am unlike your white friends who have waited until they were rich and then help but have in proportion to my success, I have reached out and am helping others.” Madam C.J. Walker.[1] So begins this excellent book on Madam C.J. Walker’s life of generosity.

Walker and other black female philanthropists didn’t help only when they had free time or extra money; they always helped. Consistency. Walker was consistent in her giving, from when she had little to when she was wealthy.

Walker provides an excellent role model for generosity. I’m grateful to Tyrone McKinley Freeman for telling her story so well.

“Whatever I have given away, I have never, ever missed it…” How being generous with a little helps us to be generous with a lot. And a story featuring the Ford Motor Company.

We are grateful for God's blessing through your generosity. A simple sentence to use in your speaking and writing. With examples of grateful stories.

"Jesus talks about money, we can too!" A simple prayer and an helpful tool to encourage bravery at meetings. Goal: making it easier to talk about money at your church or charity.

A sample letter for summer stewardship. A prayerful and grateful reminder that the church’s ministry of worship, prayer and hospitality continues throughout the summer!

The widow of Zarephath shares, even when she has very few resources. What might this story of generosity mean for a congregation who is scared they don’t have enough?

Money, Manna and Ministry - reflections based on Exodus 16 and 2 Corinthians 8. Can God be trusted, even in the wilderness? If we share, will there be enough?

Is $20 a week generous? Fresh 2022 giving data looks at Canadian giving

How do I decide where to give? Three idea for prayerful generosity

In this third post on giving and prayer, I have eight words of stewardship advice:

Pray

Say thank-you

Tell stories

Pay attention

Pray. (This is one worth repeating. We’ll talk about the Holy Spirit and pre-authorized giving!)

Clergy and Christian leaders can act on this simple counsel immediately.