MEMPHIS, Tenn. (RNS)—Music, for many, is at the heart of the black worship experience. “Music comes as a softener of people,” said Frank Thomas, pastor of Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church in Memphis, Tenn. “It allows me to gradually open myself…
Graham, presidents shared deep personal bonds
Harry Truman “Don't worry about it. I realized you hadn't been properly briefed.” — Billy Graham, in his autobiography, Just As I Am, recalling Truman's acceptance of his apology in 1967 for his actions during a White House visit years…
Passing the torch: When a longtime pastor leaves, succession can be sticky
When the only pastor an entire generation at a church has known leaves, there's no set model for ensuring a smooth transition, experts say. The right way to do it at one time in a church's history may be wrong…
FAITH DIGEST
Belief in afterlife ages well. As Americans get older, their confidence in the afterlife increases, according to a recent survey of people over 50 conducted by AARP, the advocacy group for seniors. Seventy-three percent of older people believe in life…
Seventh Day Baptists to stay in Baptist Joint Committee
NEWBERG, Ore. (ABP) — A tiny Baptist denomination has voted, narrowly, to remain part of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty despite disagreements over church-state relations. Delegates to the Seventh Day Baptist General Conference voted 279-234 July 31 to…
The church has a new pastor. When will it start to feel normal?
NEW YORK (ABP)—When a beloved pastor leaves a church, the replacement often faces an uphill battle in winning the trust and respect of the congregation. Sometimes, the newcomer faces a challenge simply in getting people to remember his name. Winfred…
Praying it forward
RICHMOND — The first day of school stirs up many emotions. Some students (and teachers, too) approach the day with dread while others can't wait to get started. As both students and staff head back to school they anticipate new…
SECOND OPINION: Church bylaws: Are yours adequate for today’s challenges?
We live in a litigation-happy society. Assuming your church is safe from lawsuits is a set-up for disaster. While many suits are unjustified factually or legally, way too many suits against churches are appropriate because of inadequate ministerial practices. The…
Pastoral residency offers mentoring for young ministers
When a Baptist minister graduates from seminary or divinity school, what factors predict whether that person will succeed or fail in local church ministry? Educational training plays a part, as does the personality of the congregation the minister serves. But…