Ministry Matters - Have we fruit? | The church as a family (system)

What if individual fruitfulness is just the beginning Have we fruit? by Laceye Warner   The claim I make here is not some kind of both-When reflecting on fruitfulness, Christians often focus: 1) on inward spiritual experience and 2) individual practices such as prayer and studying Scriptures. Both important, even essential, these practices in Christian lives of faithful discipleship, are just the beginning. John Wesley offers guidance drawing on Scriptures to deepen and extend our discernment and practices of fruitfulness. For John Wesley personal experiences of grace lead individuals to share God’s grace with others producing fruit in community. Read here

How do we navigate the complexities of our church family? Foundations for trauma-informed ministry: the church is a family (system) part 1 by Amanda Rigby & Elizabeth Watters   This article is a part of a series about trauma-informed approaches to ministry. If you have been with us through the first 3 articles, you may have begun to notice that we are building momentum to tackle more challenging topics. Our hope is to help you develop a more nuanced understanding of trauma. Previously, we highlighted the differences between human- and natural-caused trauma. In this article, we explore the church as a family system. Read here

Is it too late to plan a meaningful Lent? Last minute Lent planning by Rebekah Simon-Peter   While Ash Wednesday has come and gone, it’s not too late to design a meaningful Lent. One that will help your congregation deepen their commitment to prayer, service, and mission. Consider this your guide for last minute Lent planning. Read here

The promise of a dwelling place, a great name, and the sermon for this Sunday Wondering as we wander and worship with kids

Preparing worship elements for Second Sunday in Lent