The Episcopal Church Office of Mission Funding will sponsor a day-long symposium on the Spirituality of Philanthropy, uniting the theological and spiritual basis of philanthropy with a useful practicum on advanced fundraising strategies and techniques.

Designed for directors of development at dioceses, parishes, and other Episcopal organizations, the September 29 event will be held at the Episcopal Church Center, 815 Second Ave, New York City.

The morning program will offer The Theology of Abundance; the afternoon session will cover Popping the Question: The Romance of the “Ask.”

Keynote speakers are

– Paul Schervish, PhD, Director of the Center on Wealth and Philanthropy at Boston College and author of Gospels of Wealth: How the Rich Portray Their Lives and Wealth and The Will of God: Discerning the Use of Riches in the Service of Ultimate Purpose;

– The Rev. Canon Charles K. Robertson, PhD, Canon to the Presiding Bishop, former professor of ethics and communication and author of Transforming Stewardship and Barnabas: A Model for Holistic Stewardship;

– Nicholas Boothman, corporate communications consultant and author of How to Connect in Business in 90 Seconds or Less;

– Kathy LeMay, founder and CEO of Raising Change and author of The Generosity Plan: Sharing Your Time, Treasure and Talent to Shape the World.

Small group discussions facilitated by a panel of fundraising experts will focus on the practical approaches to fundraising, particularly in the area of major gifts.

Built into the program are ample opportunities to meet the speakers. Copies of their recent books will be available for sale and signing.

Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori will celebrate and preach at a mid-day Eucharist service.

Registration, which includes all materials, meals and receptions, is $295 until September 3, and $350 afterwards.

For more information contact Pam Barry, associate Director of Mission Funding, 212-716-6002, pbarry@episcopalchurch.org

The Episcopal Church welcomes all who worship Jesus Christ in 109 dioceses and three regional areas in 16 nations. The Episcopal Church is a member province of the worldwide Anglican Communion.

Episcopal Church Office of Mission Funding: http://www.episcopalchurch.org/mission_funding.htm

The Episcopal Church: www.episcopalchurch.org

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