I was delighted to discover a brand new network of resources especially for young adults, called Compass: Navigating Faith and Finances, at https://www.stewardshipresources.org/COMPASS. It’s designed to engage young adults in conversations about the ways faith can inform their management of money. – Not that they’re the only ones who want help in money management; I’m happy that the rest of us can jump in and learn right along with them, as well!

The Ecumenical Stewardship Center sponsors this initiative and taps into resources from its partner denominations as well as other North American stewardship leaders who provide a slew of practical resources. It’s really more of a network than just a resource, since it includes three avenues: a blog site that deals with specific aspects of faith and finances, a Facebook community, and selected resources with links.

The first issue of Compass shows the vast range from which people can choose. In the first edition, we can get free help to create a monthly budget or a plan for paying off school debts; learn how to save for emergencies and retirement; get a free download from First Things First about finding our financial True North; or catch stories of real people who have radically reshaped their concept of what is enough and what they’ve done with the “extra” money they would have spent. Three videos capture John Wesley’s insights on “Gain all you can, save all you can, give all you can;” and there’s a link to group training for a personal finances workshop.

And that’s just the first issue! I’m looking forward to some serious – and fun – connecting with others who want to join their faith and finances more closely in their daily lives. See what you think and spread the word!

Your partner in ministry,

Betsy Schwarzentraub