Gimme 5

A toolkit for parishes in transition

Periods of clergy transition are times when God remains fully present in a parish; moving, speaking, inviting the whole community into intentional listening, growth, and preparation. Parishes do not move through time alone, but in community with one another and our neighbors. 

The Office of Transitions & Congregational Development extends the following 5 resources for 5 areas of common support. Additional information and support are available through the staff of the Episcopal Church in Connecticut.  

Sermon Resources 

1. Dwelling in the Word 
2. Conversation questions to take place in small groups across pews 
3. A meditation written by a beloved theologian (Richard Rohr, Stephanie Spellers, Kelly Brown Douglas, Andrew McGowan, Evlynn Underhill….) 
4. Sermons that Work
5. A short children’s book that fits the moment 

Stewardship Resources 

1. TENS 
2. Project Resource 
3. ECF Vital Practices Stewardship 
4. Episcopal Church Stewardship & Giving Info 
5. Holy Currencies: Stewardship 365 

Canonical & Admin Requirements 

1. ECCT Planning Calendar (Sept. 2025–June 2026)
2. Administration Calendar Template for Vestries  
3. Commons Companion 
4. Parochial Report Information
5. ECCT Resources Page

Important ECCT Contacts & Networks 

1. Who does what in ECCT
2. ECCT Wednesday Wardens Calls
3. Regional Leadership Teams and Contacts
4. Archdeacons 
5. Ministry Networks 

Communication & Messaging toolkit 

1. Leaving Well: Communications Checklist
2. Spring Training & Gathering Course: Websites for Parishes
3. Spring Training & Gathering Course: Marketing Discoveries for Small/Medium-Sized Churches
4. The Episcopal Parish Network Excellence in Church Communications Webinar: Websites & Newsletters
5. “Why Updating Your Church Website Should Be a Monthly (At Minimum!) Habit!”