Messiness or godliness? Seeking God Through Design Theory It is said that you can tell a lot about a designer by looking at what they have designed. Human beings like things to be neat and tidy. We like straight lines and crisp edges. We like efficiency, consistency,...
Resources
Understanding Differences in Generational Experience
Understanding Differences in Generational Experiences Sometimes it feels like members of different generations weren't just born in separate time periods but that they speak a completely different language. Though we are alive at the same time in history, differences...
Cultural Appropriation, Cultural Expectation
Cultural Appropriation, Cultural Expectation In this past week we've explored the foundational elements of inclusive practice and the beginning steps of representative liturgical planning. In today's conversation, Kate Williams, Chris de Silva, M. Roger Holland, and...
Representation in Liturgical Planning
Steps Toward Inclusion: Representation in Liturgical Planning Authentic relationship is a key requirement for inclusive practice in pastoral ministry. Actually knowing the members of our community means more than just "knowing of" them. It involves hearing stories,...
Inclusive Practices in Pastoral Ministry
Beginning the Conversation: Inclusive Practices in Pastoral Ministry For many Christian communities of faith, our mission statements make some mention of being a "place of welcome" or give some other allusion to inclusivity. Yet, the way our communities are...
Your Favorite Songs – Part 1 (Audio)
Don’t have time to listen to the entire audio companion? Want to listen again to your favorite part? Find just what you’re looking for with these timestamps: (background music is “Joy” from Chris de Silva’s Colours, Volume 1) 1:00 – “All Are Welcome” (Marty Haugen)...
Spirituality in a Season of Uncomfortable Truths
"Where is God in All This?" Part II: Spirituality in a Season of Uncomfortable Truths We last spoke with Sue Garthwaite back in April as part of our "Homecoming" Sunday series. Back then we spoke about the pandemic, feelings of isolation, and questions about God's...
Beyond Safe Environment
Beyond Safe Environment: Rethinking Power, Influence, and Accountability As the last years and months have shown us, an understanding of the structures necessary for a truly safe environment is still emerging. Current policies do not adequately address behaviors or...
Setting Boundaries and Finding Balance in Pastoral Ministry
"But They Need Me!" Setting Boundaries and Finding Balance in Pastoral Ministry The problem of "burnout" is a real issue in ministry. Every organization, conference, and publication has offered some sort of session on stress and balance, and the practical suggestions...
Best Practices in Change Management
"It Works for Target, But Can it Work for us?" Best Practices in Change Management Join Jes Garceau and Leisa Anslinger as they explore the concepts behind change management. Whether experiencing change as an individual, small group, or organization, the models and...