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Breathing New Life: Revitalizing a Church for the Future – Part 1
When God Calls You To a Church in Decline Several years ago, we were sitting at a district conference listening to a report from one of our leaders. He shared that a significant number of churches in our movement had either plateaued or were in decline. As we listened, something inside us quietly said,…
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When Sheep Bite: Loving People Through Criticism in Ministry
Ministry is a beautiful, messy calling, one that walks hand in hand with both the brokenness and brilliance of humanity. In this honest reflection, we share some of the hardest words we’ve heard in decades of pastoral ministry, the kind that sting long after they’re spoken and the deeper lessons they’ve taught us about…
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Why Belonging Matters: Inside the Journey of Every Newcomer – Belonging Series Part 2
The Gigantic First Step Stepping into a new church for the very first time can be daunting. It’s a journey often taken with a mix of hope, fear, and a deep, unspoken longing for connection. While a congregation may see a new face as an exciting addition, or not notice it at all, it’s…
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Politics & the Pulpit – Walking the Tight Rope
This article reflects on the challenge pastors face when navigating politics from the pulpit. It emphasizes that the pulpit is sacred space meant to lift high the name of Jesus. While acknowledging that people hold strong opinions and that justice and truth matter, it warns that politicized preaching divides the church and weakens its…