By Trevor Eppehimer, Ph.D. “Social relevance” serves as a holy grail for those whose careers depend on the ability to identify current patterns of thinking and spot contemporary cultural trends. Success follows, conventional wisdom holds, the politician, recording artist, filmmaker, or company that can locate, commodify and project “social relevance.” In North America, where persons […]
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By Sam S. Rainer III I am in the third year of serving as lead pastor at West Bradenton. Thankfully, my first two years were more joy than angst, defined by encouragement and not disillusion. But even in a healthy church, the third year can bring frustration — for both pastor and congregation. In the […]
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By Tim Spivey The most overlooked and underrated trait of people who serve in healthy, growing churches is a positive attitude. This isn’t to be mistaken for blindness to obstacles or a “yes man/woman” posture. I’m talking about one’s primary attitude, and whether it is oriented toward self/others and criticism/encouragement. What weather do they produce […]
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By Joe Garecht Many faith-based organizations worry about making fundraising asks. They think that because they have a religious mission, making direct asks of donors is somehow unethical or will damage their reputation. Other faith-based non-profits focus solely on making group asks from the pulpit, or through mass-communication mediums like direct mail or e-mail. These organizations avoid […]
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By Brian Gleason A regular police presence at or near your school, church and/or local neighborhood is a valuable crime-prevention strategy. Here’s why. Did you know that routine patrolling of school and church grounds better positions law enforcement to act quickly when they receive a request for help? It helps build a level of comfort for […]
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On the Monday Morning Church podcast, I speak to executive pastors and church administrators about the monumental changes in technology over the last 15 years. It is amazing to hear how churches are using tools that few could have dreamed of earlier. Technology has allowed churches to scale their impact like never before. But the […]
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By Mike Bonem “And all other duties as may be assigned.” This is commonly the last line in a job description. But, the practical reality for many second chair leaders is that this is their first responsibility. This simple truth can be frustrating and confusing. It’s confusing when you’re not sure what your priorities should […]
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By Sam S. Rainer III Leadership literature is chock-full of ways in which an average leader can become great. We all believe we’re good. Greatness is just a book, a conference, or a degree away. Indeed, I believe run-of-the-mill leaders can become better with training. A desire to learn, self-awareness, and a solid work ethic […]
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By Matthew D. Hoffman, CFP®, ChFC® When we think about estate planning, drafting a will, and getting your financial affairs in order, millennials aren’t the first demographic group that come to mind. Most people don’t start to think about this topic until they’re a little older and more established; they usually have achieved milestones such […]
Read More >By Donovan Loomis Between Sunday worship, youth activities, and all the groups that meet throughout the week, your church is a hub of activity. Your congregation relies on the facilities to not only be a place of worship, but also a launching pad for ministry. Church leaders are expected to be intentional in how they […]
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