In moments as seemingly mundane as the passing of Communion trays, we get to help shepherd our people by serving them. In doing so, we follow in the footsteps of the Chief Shepherd.
All tagged community
What is Intergenerational Ministry?
Intergenerational moments go beyond this mere sharing of the same physical space. These experiences occur when the pews turn into circles, allowing different generations to engage deeply with each other in meaningful ways. Instead of simply co-existing in location, there are opportunities for real connection, conversation, and contribution from every age group.
Building Bridges with Our Communities: Summer Bridge Events
Although these are only a few summer community-building ideas, the possibilities are unlimited. As you are thinking and praying about what you might want to plan, listen to the needs of the community, then brainstorm about how you might be able to meet those needs.
I Knew Better
When I felt the nudge to check in earlier, all I wanted to do was see how they were doing. I didn’t have a list of action items or suggestions for the girls. I just wanted this mom to know that I cared, but my silence communicated just the opposite. The silent treatment is always the worst communication plan.
Building Bridges with Our Communities: Spring Bridge Events
As you are planning events for the spring, general seasonal-themed events or ones focusing on local interests or holidays are good to consider. Bridge events create community on multiple levels: within our own churches by giving an opportunity for new members to get to know people as well as building bridges between our congregation and the community.
Pregnant Women Need You!
As Christian leaders, we understand the importance of caring for the well-being of all members of our community, particularly those who are vulnerable and in need. The disparities in maternal health outcomes for women of color demand our attention and action.
It’s Like This Verbal Jesus Was in the Room
It occurred to me that it’s hard to get to know people on a Sunday. We are all in the same building, but rarely does the Sunday structure allow for in-depth conversations. Worship is the priority, of course, but those in-depth conversations are gems of connection and inspiration. I wish I had asked my parents and grandparents to share their stories in this manner.
Growing Smaller
For those who still struggle with isolation and battle a never-ending sense of loneliness, I encourage you to find community, more specifically a small community. Find a community where simply showing up, checking a box, and leaving isn’t an option because your community won’t allow it since they love you too much. This is a defining characteristic of the Kingdom of God and of the church.
We Know Not What We are Doing
What do I not know about my sin? Every time I sin, it is like a rock that is thrown into the middle of a body of water. A pebble makes small ripples, while a boulder makes big ones. My sin may not seem to be an undersea earthquake that causes a tsunami… but the ripples are undeniable, and it is impossible for me to see them all.
It Was Just Nice
There is something so holy about being with a small group of friends who know me and who care enough to be supportive during such a drastic transition.
The Pursuit of Purpose: How it Shapes Individuals, Impacts the World, and Cultivates Discernment
The pursuit of purpose, particularly for Christians, transcends individual spiritual alignment; it is a societal imperative giving rise to discerning, disciplined, and transformative individuals.
Why I am So Conflicted about Church Buildings
The church is not a building. Never has been. The church is people. But it seems like almost every community of faith I know is either trying to build or remodel a building.
Asking More, Not Less
Before we ask people to do more in our churches, we need to make sure that what we are asking them to do creates identity, community, meaning, and purpose.
We Disagree and I Think You Are…
Just because we disagree does not make one of us stupid. In the same way, one of us may be wrong about things, but that does not mean we are not in love with Jesus.
In the Name of Jesus: A Reflection on Christian Leadership
Using two passages from the New Testament—Matthew 4:1-11 and John 21:15-19—Henri Nouwen offers us a profound reflection about the type of leadership Christ wants for his church.
Why One Minister Has Stayed
These are my top five reasons that I have stayed in ministry. This isn’t the final word, but I do think that these are things that every person in full-time ministry needs to some degree.
Jesus's Feeding the 5,000
Jesus was inviting them out of their fear and scarcity mindset to one of abundance. Rather than seeing the scarcity of the moment, Jesus invited them to see the not-yet-visible abundance of the kingdom of God.
Lattes, Candles, and Ukuleles Are Not Exactly Missional
The missional call is not doing what you already do at a better or more creative level. It’s joining people where they are, bringing the love of Jesus with you, and allowing the Spirit of God to form Christian community.
Restoring Unity to the Body of Christ
The body of Christ cannot be idle in its efforts to cultivate unity. If the body of Christ is going to function to the fullest, the body must be one.
Reading Scripture as a Renewal Exercise
The reason to know about God in the past is so that we can recognize the action of God today.