Browsing by Rob Blezard
Three Ways to Save for a Rainy Day
On average, Americans save about 4.5 percent, a number which has steadily declined over the decades as we’ve become more reliant upon credit for our emergency needs. But with some planning and discipline you can do better. From LifeWay resources. (Photo © rangizzz – Fotolia.com)
Clergy at Risk for Depression, Anxiety
Clergy are often relied upon to guide others through difficult times, but a new study has found that the very nature of their work could put them at greater risk of developing depression and anxiety themselves. From the Huffington Post. (Photo by Bottled Void, used by Creative Commons License)
Church Turnaround Ideas
What kinds of things give the American church hope for the future? In spite of declining trends, participants at the recent Future of the Church summit identified some clear strengths and opportunities for the church in North America. From Thom Schultz of Holysoup.com. (Photo by Navdeep Raj, used by Creative Commons license.)
Church Gives $500 to Every Member
When Chicago’s struggling Lasalle Street Church received an unexpected windfall, it did the unexpected — giving every member $500 and asking them to use it for good. “It feels like a faith experiment more than a social experiment,” Pastor Laura Truax said. (Photo by Steven DePolo, used by Creative Commons license)
52 Proven Stress Reducers
Let’s face it: We live in a very stressful era, when we are dealing with all sorts of problems, both personally and globally. Meantime, there never seems to be enough time and energy to get everything done. To help, here are “52 Proven Stress Reducers” from the United Methodist Stewardship Foundation. (Photo (c) Laszlolorik, Fotolia)
Three Layers of Environmental Preaching
Pastors who may be reluctant to preach on environmental issues can take inspiration from this informative essay, which broadens the conventional notion that environmental preaching always means addressing controversial political issues. Good reading for pastors who want to lead their congregations in new directions, from Eco-Justice Ministries. (Photo © Nelos – Fotolia.com)
Preaching on Money
Walking into the pulpit to ask our congregation to give while assuming that people do not want to give is a bit like a young man beginning his proposal of marriage with the words “I know you’ll say no, but….â€Â Here are some tips that can help you to ask boldly, from MinistryMatters. (Photo by […]
Attitude of Gratitude
“Stewardship in the broad sense is how we respond to what God is trying to show us and tell us and teach us. Our response can open the door to God’s multiplying our gifts,” writes Demi Prentiss in the Episcopal Church Foundation website. Her essay is chock full of insight. (Photo © DOC RABE Media […]
How to Turn Around the Incredibly Shrinking Church
What’s happening to today’s Mainline churches has a lot to do with cultural trends, but more important is the birthrate, argues this writer in EthicsDaily.com. Do you agree? What is affecting your church?
Check out the Global Catholic Climate Movement
The Global Catholic Climate Movement seeks to rally the world’s largest Christian denomination behind care of God’s creation and the fight to stop climate change. Started only in January 2015, it has already gathered dozens of partner groups across the globe. Be sure to read their statement. (Photo @ Keller, Fotolia)
