Ministry Matters - Just keep walkin | You have been called

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How do we keep walking the way of love in this moment? Just keep walking by Jake Owensby   Mack McCarter envisions a world where “every single child, no matter their age, can be safe and loved.” That vision led him in 1994 to leave traditional congregational ministry in Texas and to found Community Renewal International in his hometown of Shreveport, Louisiana. Two decades of church work had convinced him that cities and towns are essentially a web of relationships. When the relationships fray, those communities begin to decline. Read here

What words shape a pastor's spirituality? You have been called by William McDonald   It was a long service, but your spirits were high. After three years of seminary education, your first appointment, meetings with your district and conference Board of Ordained Ministry, and probationary membership, you had been waiting for this day. It felt good to walk in the procession through the conference assembly, singing “Lord, You Give the Great Commission” (UMH 584). It was a day for vestments and red stoles and banners, a meal together before the service with your pastoral colleagues, the group picture for the journal. Read here

So, can your church rebuild? Is this church ready for rebuilding? by Rebekah Simon-Peter   As I worshiped on a recent Sunday morning, I couldn’t help but ponder the question of whether this church, which I’d been attending for over a decade, was ready for rebuilding. I genuinely appreciate this church. However, it has experienced numerous changes. While the church once held three services a week, it now only offers one. Many familiar faces have disappeared. Read here

A willingness to sacrifice, heavenly hospitality, and your sermon this Sunday Offering a welcoming presence in worship this week with these elements