By Terry Maples I grew up in the Deep South in the 1960s and ‘70s. Neither of my parents received a high school diploma, which was not uncommon in our rural context. For many, this insular setting seemed to foster…
Recovering spiritual vitality
By Terry Maples I love the church. I committed my life to serving God through the local church. After 27 years as a congregational educator, I now find myself in more of a consulting/coaching role with congregational leaders. Like many…
What does the Bible say about women in ministry?
By Terry Maples God created males and females as equals. Adam and Eve enjoyed a partnership of equals until the fall. Male domination evolved and led to broken relationships between men and women. So, I believe we can surmise that…
Why I advocate for women in ministry
By Terry Maples I grew up in a conservative Southern Baptist home in rural Alabama. At church I was emphatically taught God cannot and would not call a woman to vocational ministry. The reason offered for this belief was “It’s…
Bridging the hospitality gap
By Terry Maples Recently I read an article by a newly retired Baptist minister who recounted experiences while searching for a new church home. He sadly reported members in most churches where he visited ignored him. Hospitality was lacking. Members…