Even in the midst of pandemic, we church leaders have to continue providing pastoral care for our sheep. Here are some reflections on this task in these unusual days: 1. The telephone has become a greater tool of ministry. Actually calling someone and talking to someone has become a much more significant approach to ministering … Continued
The Reverend Willy Jenkins Jr. grew up in Mississippi under the hardship of Jim Crow. He worked for the ethnic integration of public schools and, because of this, was a target of violence. One day, some white teenagers cruised through the Jenkinses’ neighborhood, firebombing homes. They came to the Jenkins home to confront the pastor. … Continued
This is probably one of the hardest seasons youve ever led through. One of the things thats making this season particularly challenging is that, regardless of ideology, theology or viewpoint, we are more divided and adamant than ever. People dont agree on masks, social distancing, schooling, reopening church, online church politics or whether theres even […]
We all know we should share our faith more actively. In a 2019 survey by LifeWay Research, more than half the respondents (55%) admitted they had not shared Christ with anyone in the past six months. My guess is that, during COVID-19 quarantine and with social distancing requirements, this number is higher. This article explores the key to a sustainable lifestyle of evangelism […]
Our church was not the first in our county (and definitely not in the country) to start holding worship gatherings again, and I am thankful for those who began worship gatherings before we did as we were able to learn some lessons from them. But as we have begun outdoor gatherings, I am getting emails about reopening church gatherings […]
You’re familiar with the common scenario where someone half-jokingly asks for advice for a “friend.” Everyone knows the “friend” is actually the person asking the question. Well, that scenario happens in leadership all the time. I call it: the question behind the question. The question behind the question may be the more important question. Sometimes … Continued
The U.S. military created the acronym VUCA right after the Cold War. While the war was going on, the battle lines of the world were pretty much set in place. But after that, the situation was volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous. And our situation right now is pretty much the same. We want to lead … Continued
According to Tim Johnson in his book, Crisis Leadership: How to Lead in Times of Crisis, Threat, and Uncertainty, there are two types of crises: incident and issue crises. Incident crises are like tornadoes, issue crises are like hurricanes. Ive had experience in both tornado and hurricane environments. They are both scary, nonetheless. In any […] Understanding the brain science in crisis leadership can help leaders navigate these turbulent times more effectively.
I am not sure there is anyone who would disagree with the statement that in order for a church to be successful in carrying out its mission leadership and leaders are key. Of course, God is in control and without God there is nothing that we can do, but we’re also clear that God has … Continued
This is a significant moment for video games and those who are connected to gaming culture. Before we get any further, if you find yourself thinking, Is there such a thing as a significant moment for video games?, then I hope to convince you of the importance of understanding gaming culture and connecting with gamers as a student pastor, […]
