“Give us the vision and patience to live and labor faithfully though this season of response and recovery.” [Rev. Eddie Weathers, UCC Southern Conference] HYMN: “O God, We’ve Prayed in Wind and Rain” by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette Tune: ST. ANNE CM (“Our God, Our Help in Ages Past”) O God, we’ve prayed in wind […]
Possible steps toward shared ministry among UCC congregations
Possible Steps toward Shared Ministry among UCC congregations The following process details the steps for the structure of a shared ministry. This is not a process for yoking or merging. This process is for two or more churches that are seeking to do ministry together. These churches would need to be willing to have a […]
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Actions for Churches in Decline
Pray – Pray-Pray – Be open and trusting in God. Don’t be limited to your ideas and agendas but really listen and look to where God is leading you. Don’t wait until you are burned out. It’s hard to feel energized in the name of the Lord, when you’re doing all the work. The theme “better […]
Characteristics of Growing Churches
This article from Outreach Magazine is recommended by Associate Conference Minister, Rev. Sharon Morris. 10 Characteristics of Growing Churches 1. They have leaders that lead! “For God so loved the world that He did not send a committee!” Not sure where I heard that…but it’s true! 2. A desperation for God’s power! Prayer isn’t a […]
Characteristics of a Healthy Church
This article by Christian A. Schwartz, Natural Church Development, ChurchSmart Resources, 1998, is recommended by Associate Conference Minister, Rev. Sharon Morris. 8 CHARACTERISTICS OF A HEALTHY CHURCH Empowering Leadership Leaders of growing churches concentrate on empowering other Christians for ministry. They consider it as one of their most important tasks to help Christians develop greater degrees […]
Secrets of Church Revitalization
This article by Ron Edmondson is recommended by Associate Conference Minister, Rev. Sharon Morris. 5 Secrets of Church Revitalization I’ve written frequently about church revitalization. As one who has planted a couple of churches, I know the challenges are unique. One thing I’ve noticed is the number of pastors who enter revitalization thinking the church […]
The Smaller Congregation – Pathways in Challenging Times
The Smaller Congregation – Pathways in Challenging Times was originally created for the Alban Institute’s “Congregational Resource Guide,” at a time when many small congregations were feeling the impact of the nation’s financial crisis. The aim was to promote congregational vitality and illuminate options for decision-makers in smaller congregations as they faced common challenges. While new models […]
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Protecting Houses of Worship
Unfortunately, protecting houses of worship is a relevant and important topic in today’s world, but it doesn’t have to be difficult or detract from your ministries. Look over these resources for valuable and practical information on keeping your church safe from a shooting or other attack. This document provides Federal Government Resources for Protecting Houses […]
Pastoral Relations Committee
“The Pastoral Relations Committee” contains suggestions of policies, principles, and procedures which may enhance the work of the Pastoral Relations Committee. If your church does not have a Pastoral Relations Committee, careful study of this booklet and of the resources mentioned within it will guide your consideration in establishing a Pastoral Relations Committee for your […]
Opioid Epidemic Practical Toolkit
The Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnership, under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has released “The Opioid Epidemic Practice Toolkit: Helping Faith-based and Community Leaders Bring Hope and Healing to Our Communities.” This document provides a simple, but proven, list of actions that churches can take to make a difference in their […]
