If you’re still measuring the success of a congregation’s youth ministry on programs and attendance, you’re missing the boat, according to an extensive national survey by Springtide Research Institute. The new research organization specializes in studying young people ages 13…
Focus on ‘we’ rather than ‘me’ when praying, professor counsels
Although Rick Landon never has taught English grammar, he has urged students to choose their pronouns carefully. Paying attention to pronouns while praying is one way to start nurturing a closer relationship with God, said Landon, who recently retired as…
Adult faith formation thriving although different due to COVID
The coronavirus outbreak is inspiring Christians to take spiritual formation into their own hands — and that’s just fine with a lot of spiritual formation pastors. “People have pushed pause,” said Jayne Davis, associate pastor for discipleship at First Baptist…
50 years later, I still grieve my brother’s death: Looking back in order to look forward
In looking back on irretrievable loss, perhaps we can do a better job of capturing the here and now.
3 keys to surviving your wilderness experience
God is still present and still at work even in our darkest nights in the wilderness.
Selfies from hell: Don’t give up one second to the lesser gods of this digital age
The social media space is a dangerous world leveraged by hidden agendas and powerful systems. Your spiritual health is pretty far down on the list of their priorities.
Savoring the moment when the sacredness of the present is made plain
It is only in suspension that the sacredness of the present is made plain. What lies ahead cannot be seen, but each day has enough trouble of its own. For now, there is this moment. This breath. This being here.
For clergy and churches, repeal of health law poses serious consequences
Like most Americans, ministers and their families are facing exploding health-care costs. And for many clergy, the resulting frustration and stress comes on top of the long hours and low pay associated with their callings. Throw in the rising suspense…
Scorsese film ‘Silence’ illustrates Christian need to go inward with faith
The Los Angeles Times called Silence “a film for the ages,” while Variety described it as “undeniably gorgeous. A remarkable achievement.” But the latest film by Martin Scorsese, currently in theaters, is more than that, says Michael Sciretti Jr., a…