Hold Out the Mic, It’s Not Your Ministry
I’m starting with a rant. I love going to concerts but I am bothered when the lead singer holds out the microphone and makes the audience sing. Yes, I know the song, but I also know how horrible I sound. I paid to see them perform the song, not for the artist to watch me […]
Modern Miracles of Physical Healing
When was the last time you heard about someone who was physically healed through prayer? Have you ever witnessed healing yourself? I recently had the honor to volunteer as a prayer minister for a retreat. During the week three people shared with me about previous encounters they had when praying with someone and that personal was physically […]
How to Win with Games in Ministry: Trench Tested Games
Whether you want to get some energy out, build community, or just have fun; when done well a game can be a great way to get the juices flowing and break the ice in a ministry setting. RULES TO SUCCESSFUL GAMES 1. Have the youth in the starting position before you explain the game. Whenever […]
5 Ways to Make Faith Relevant to Teens
Those committed to their faith know the importance of having a relationship with Christ. But for teens who are learning about the Church it can be difficult to grasp not only the beautiful theology but why it matters for their lives today. It’s vital to recognize that you’re not called to simply teach the faith, […]
5 Hacks to Keep Teens Attention
We’ve all been there. You’re in the midst of giving an amazing teaching, profound talk, or sharing the depths of your soul when you look out and see it – the teens eyes are glazed over and they’re not hearing a single word. Their minds are thinking four times faster than you can speak, but […]
Why October Isn’t Too Early for Christmas Lights
In early October I was driving home and noticed one of my neighbors had their Christmas lights up and lit. My initial reaction was probably similar to many of yours; take a picture, post it on social media, and join in the barrage of comments about it being too soon for Christmas lights, how people […]
Hearing vs. Listening: What’s the difference? Pt. 1
In my experience of church ministry, I have often found that most people who approach the church are in need of something on their “to do” list, but are also in need of so much more. They are in need of someone to listen to their stories and help them move forward. Since I was […]
School Shootings: Ministering in the Aftermath …an insider’s story
It was a beautiful spring day and, as a junior in high school, I was hoping a teacher would give in to my peers and I begging to have class outside. We were looking forward to prom in just over a week. I’ll never forget that day. It was the day my life forever changed. […]
3 Ways to Instantly Transform Your Relationships with Others
These 3 simple phrases when used more often between you and those you value or love (and even your enemies) can make a significant impact in your relationships with others. A few months ago, one of our deacons shared a link with me to Pope Francis’ Speech to engaged couples on February 14, 2014. If you […]
Writing Great Discussion Questions
Small groups have become a staple in ministry today. They create community, foster identity and build trust that leads to openness to Jesus Christ. Small groups can be a primary vehicle for people to share their faith, question their faith and encounter a community who loves them and journeys with them. Below are some tips […]