
6 takeaways from church hospitality research
Earlier this year, Lifeway Research released the results of a study on how Protestant churches welcome first-time guests. The results, as they say, speak for themselves.
Earlier this year, Lifeway Research released the results of a study on how Protestant churches welcome first-time guests. The results, as they say, speak for themselves.
iStock
If you’re pastoring a mid-sized church, you’ve likely felt that slow undercurrent of change that’s harder to name than it is to feel.
Adobe Stock Photo. Do not publish.
The first seven years of C. H. Spurgeon’s ministry in London were accompanied by a surprising revival. No one could have expected it. Through a nineteen-year-old country preacher, a dying congregation was revitalized, and hundreds—perhaps thousands—were converted under his ministry during those early years. Though only a few dozen were in attendance when Spurgeon first arrived at New Park Street in 1853, by 1861 membership was at 1,473, with thousands more regularly attending.
Adobe Stock Photo. Do not publish.
An “unforced error” is a term borrowed from sports, especially tennis, meaning a mistake made due to one’s own lapse rather than being forced by an opponent. In everyday language, it refers to an avoidable mistake or misstep, typically resulting from a lack of attention or care rather than external pressure.
Springtime is often one of the busiest seasons for women’s ministry, but it also brings a unique opportunity to pause and reconnect. Planning a women’s retreat is a meaningful way to create space for rest, community, and spiritual renewal. Though the process may seem daunting, breaking it into manageable steps can help you craft a retreat that is both well-organized and impactful. Whether you’re a seasoned planner or tackling your first retreat, these practical tips will guide you every step of the way.
Leading with community isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a necessity. Here are four ways we can lean into community in various seasons of ministry.
October, a month often dedicated to celebrating pastors, also offers a unique opportunity to acknowledge the invaluable role of their wives. As a pastor’s wife for nearly two decades, I’ve experienced the incredible privilege of witnessing God’s work firsthand. Yet, this privileged position also comes with its share of challenges, including betrayal, loneliness, and even […]
In a world that often prioritizes personal fulfillment and happiness, it’s easy to forget that God’s ultimate goal for us is holiness. Our culture is centered on success, recognition, and the pursuit of fulfilling our “passion,” but these things are often fleeting, influenced by circumstances and seasons.
The pressure to be perfect can be a crippling weight for leaders. Society often paints a picture of leadership as a flawless pursuit, where challenges are effortlessly overcome and success is guaranteed. However, the reality is far more complex. Behind the scenes, leaders grapple with immense pressure, uncertainty, and the weight of expectations.
In our culture, there’s so much emphasis on being a good leader that we rarely hear about what it means to be a good follower. In any church or organization, the strength of the team is often the defining factor in its success. So why does most of the responsibility and conversation land on the leader? For staff members, lay leaders, and followers, being an exemplary team member is crucial to the health of any organization. Here are some key traits that contribute to being an effective and supportive member of the team.
Recently, I had the privilege of speaking at a women’s conference where the diversity of attendees spanned generations. Across the table, I found myself in conversation with two women at different life stages: one fresh out of college and single, the other recently widowed. Despite their disparate circumstances, they shared a common struggle—navigating the challenges of finding an apartment, living alone, and facing the uncertainties of the future.
I’ve recently taken on the role of teaching a cultural theology and biblical worldview class for high school juniors at a private school in my new hometown. Surprisingly, I’ve found that I’m learning just as much from them during our discussions, whether in class sessions or through our private conversations.
Trust is eroding in various sectors of our society, including education, government, and even religious institutions. As followers of Jesus, we have a responsibility not only to possess good character and integrity but also to dedicate our time and efforts toward instilling and promoting these values both individually and corporately as image bearers of God.
We all have different roles and titles that we are known for. Some of us are CEOs, some stay at home moms, some coaches, and others of us are caregivers and teachers. Out of all the different seasons of life and titles I’ve had, none get quite the reaction as to when I share that I am a “Pastor’s Wife.”