A lot of Christians share the assumption that the bigger the church, the more blessed it is. One of the biggest flaws in that assumption is that it’s poor theology. “God is not more concentrated because there are more of…
Impact of Trump refugee cuts felt by churches, nonprofits and internationals
The limit President Trump has placed on the number of refugees who can enter the U.S. has devastated those who have languished in overseas refugee camps for years. While the travel-ban portion of Trump’s second executive order has been placed…
Laughter can foster forgiveness and heal relationships, minister says
A lot of ministers and congregations frown on the use of humor in the pulpit — or anywhere else in the church. Many consider it to be sacrilegious, blasphemous or, at best, disrespectful to crack a joke to open a sermon….
Focus must be on behavior, not age, in shaping relevant ministry
For years now, Christian communities have been intensely focused on serving Baby Boomers, Millennials and other groups demarcated by age. But that focus alone is no longer going to cut it for churches genuinely interested in being relevant to the…
Film, director challenge churches to re-examine purpose in life
Church consultants have been saying it so long they almost sound like a broken record: congregations are closing at appalling rates and most are too afraid to face it. That’s certainly nothing new to congregational coaches like Eddie Hammett, president…
Free prayer in coffee shops inspires marketplace ministry
Pushing the church and its ministry beyond its four walls requires overcoming the fear and uncertainty that usually block the way, Thomas Rusert says. Rusert, a Lutheran pastor in Doylestown, Pa., learned that lesson last summer when he began making himself available for…
The secret to congregational vitality revealed
The secret is really not a secret. It is well known by many congregational leaders. But, they do not accept it because they are looking for a magic act that brings quick vitality without deep commitment and persistent action. Too…