Bridge events provide a comfortable place for people to interact with church members in a relaxed and inviting way, and as we come out of the pandemic, they hold promise in helping our current church community as well.
All by Anessa Westbrook
Faith Development and Women
Considering differences in learning and faith development between genders adds another layer of understanding that will hopefully lead to greater effectiveness in teaching and ministry.
Don’t Forget the Spouses!
Over the years I have heard many stories of spoken and unspoken expectations on the spouse. This has varied from the assumption of specific ways they would be involved at church to expectations regarding employment.
What Should Ministry Look Like During a Pandemic?
I’ve heard stories of churches and ministers figuring out how to take steps forward despite the challenges. I have also seen churches and ministries frozen, and that concerns me greatly.
The Importance of Intentional Experiences
Providing a chance for people to talk with, work alongside, and listen to people different from themselves can aid in spiritual, emotional, and cognitive change.
Starting with a Clean Slate
We must take a fresh look at our priorities, and the spiritual discipline of detachment is invaluable in this process.
‘Tis the Season for Reflective Planning
As the year comes to a close, there is one practice that should be built into our schedules: reflection.
Developing Community
We do not see individualized, compartmentalized faith modeled in the New Testament.
Spiral of Silence
Have you been in a small group discussion but felt unable to give your opinion?
Growing Season
Summer can be a valuable opportunity for growth and new experiences, and in ministry it can also provide an opportunity for students to contribute at a higher level.
What Is Mentoring?
At a basic level, there are three modes of mentoring: active, occasional, and passive.
Mentoring As a Tool for Transformation
When used in a church setting, mentoring can also be transformational and is a valuable addition to a church program.
The Greatest Gift
The greatest gift a parent can give a child is permission to become the person God created him or her to be.
Refining Our Approach
Those actively involved in church leadership at any level need to be familiar with how to reach different people within their churches.
Teaching Women Effectively
Women’s studies have had a reputation of being fluffy. I am not sure exactly where this reputation began, although it may have to do with a preference for meeting “felt needs” rather than “real needs.”
The Role of Intentional Affirmation in Female Development
Who inspired you to be in ministry? It’s a question many of us can answer, but how often do we stop to consider if we have passed along the same gift?
Envisioning the Dream of Ministry
We must have a vision of possibilities for the future. Local congregations ought to consider how they are helping others develop a vision for ministry.