Does Church Make a Difference?
If Christians are living like the rest of the world, does church remain important?
Sing a Song of Lament
In the book “Hurting with God: Learning to Lament with the Psalms,” Old Testament scholar Glenn Pemberton notes the absence of laments in modern hymnals when compared to
Church as a Place for Lament
Many experts scoff at the calculations used to pick “Blue Monday,” which would be January 16th this year. However, the seasonal concepts behind the idea — like colder weather, post-holiday letdown and less daylight — can often lead to people feeling down this time of
Christmas memories
“Memories, Christmas memories,” Frank Sinatra’s baritone voice declared. “They’re the sweetest ones I know.”
For former missionaries now back in the United States, those memories often include Christmases
It’s Christmas everywhere
As missionaries adjust to life in a new country, many challenges emerge: building relationships, perhaps learning a new language and learning cultural traditions. Even Christmas can bring
Pastors participate in politics at pulpit and in public
Few pastors throw their hat into a political race. But many engage in politics in other ways, both in the public square and in church sanctuaries.
Clergy campaign for seats in the Capitol
“Ministry is not a vocation, it’s not an occupation, it's a calling,” states a senator from Oklahoma. Others see running for office as part of the process of living out their faith.
Ministering to aging ‘Baby Boomers’
As a large group of Americans, the so-called “Baby Boomers,” have impacted U.S. society, culture, politics and religion for decades. With the oldest members of
Senior adult ministries key to church’s future
Thanks to medical advancements — along with some other factors — people are living longer.
For those 85 and older, the expected number will more than triple. Because of this increased lifespan, churches will likely find a growing number of senior adults in their communities.
Givers increasingly interpret ‘the tithe’ differently
How many people in your congregation would you classify as tithers? The answer likely depends upon the interpretation of the biblical admonition to tithe that church leaders