If the first job of leadership is to define reality, belittling small churches is not realistic. Neither is idealizing or romanticizing them. We must see them accurately so we can serve and lead them well.
I Don’t Want Churches To Be Small; I Want Small Churches To Be Great
Small churches have unique strengths and gifts. But we must know three basic truths if we hope to turn those strengths into reality.
This article and the preceding one are taken from Karl Vater's Small Church archives. Small churches comprise the bulk of the churches in North America. They certainly form the lion's share of the churches in the Episcopal Church, the Anglican Church of Canada, the Anglican Church in North America, the Continuing Anglican Churches, and the several Methodist denominations. For this reason I will be posting and reposting links to articles related to small churches and small church and rural ministry when I come across them and links to resources that might be helpful to small membership churches.Church of England encouraged by increase in church attendance
The Church of England has welcomed latest figures showing an increase in attendance for the fourth consecutive year. The worshipping community as a whole rose by 1.2% in 2024 to 1.02 million regular worshippers, while Sunday attendance increased by 1.5% to 582,000. Weekly attendance was also up by 1.2%, rising to 701,000.
Young Men Lead Renewed Interest In Christianity Across The UK
A curiosity about Scripture and God may be one of the leading factors behind a study that claims a “quiet revival” is expanding among young people in the United Kingdom, said an International Mission Board leader.
Alpha International announces its most successful year ever, reaching millions across the globe
Last year, Alpha experienced its most successful year since it began nearly five decades ago. More than two million people took part in the course worldwide in 2024 – more than in any previous year – confirming Alpha’s place as one of the most widely used tools for exploring the Christian faith.
Pennsylvania animal ministry supports ‘all creatures great and small’
For Episcopalians in the Diocese of Pennsylvania, caring for creation includes animal welfare because “the Lord God made them all.” That’s why, since 2023, the diocese’s Animal Ministry has been connecting owners to pets through adoption and foster events, providing access to free and low-cost vaccines and pet food and much more.
Related: Western New York Episcopal church’s pet food pantry honors late animal-loving deaconHow Clarity Helps You Lead Change
Don’t wait for the perfect conditions for change. You don’t need more resources to lead change with vision. You need more clarity.
Are you offering a ‘kids’ table’ for single adults at your church?
Singles aren't the only folks tht churches segregate to a 'kids' table. Some folks aren't offered a table at all. For example, I live on the outskirts of a small university town, a segment of the population of which are vegan or vegetarian or exploring a plant-based diet. Except perhaps for the town's one Seventh Day Adventist church, none of the town's churches to my knowledge give thought to this population when planning church dinners and other meals. When it comes to food choices, the local Episcopal church which boasts being an inclusive church is not inclusive.
Dangers of Theological Controversy
There are dangers that we need to seek to avoid when entering into theological debate.
The Doctrine of Vocation
The Reformation doctrine of vocation teaches that all Christians are called by God to live faithfully in three arenas, the household, the Church, and the state, in which all Christians are to live out their priesthood as believers by offering up their lives as living sacrifices to God.
12 Practical Tips for New Pastors Starting Their Ministry Journey
Starting in pastoral ministry is a sacred calling filled with joy, challenge, and tremendous responsibility. Whether you’ve just graduated from seminary or are stepping into vocational ministry after years of lay service, the early days of pastoral work can feel both exciting and overwhelming. To help guide you through this season, here are 12 practical tips for new pastors designed to build a strong foundation for a thriving, faithful ministry.
5 Biblical Principles for Leading Worship With Excellence
Leading worship is more than a musical performance or emotional experience—it’s a sacred responsibility that calls for spiritual depth, humility, and a commitment to excellence. Worship leaders have the unique role of helping God’s people encounter His presence and proclaim His truth through music and praise. To lead well, worship leaders must align their leadership with Scripture. These biblical principles for worship leaders offer guidance for nurturing a worship ministry that honors God and serves His people faithfully.
15 Ways to Support Missionaries in the Field (Even If You Can’t Go)
Not everyone is called to travel across the globe to share the gospel, but every believer can play a vital role in global missions. Missionaries rely on the encouragement, prayers, and practical help of those back home. If you’ve ever wondered how to support missionaries beyond simply writing a check, there are many creative and meaningful ways to be involved in their work. Here are 15 ideas to help you make a lasting impact—right where you are.
Dangers of Theological Controversy
There are dangers that we need to seek to avoid when entering into theological debate.
The Doctrine of Vocation
The Reformation doctrine of vocation teaches that all Christians are called by God to live faithfully in three arenas, the household, the Church, and the state, in which all Christians are to live out their priesthood as believers by offering up their lives as living sacrifices to God.
12 Practical Tips for New Pastors Starting Their Ministry Journey
Starting in pastoral ministry is a sacred calling filled with joy, challenge, and tremendous responsibility. Whether you’ve just graduated from seminary or are stepping into vocational ministry after years of lay service, the early days of pastoral work can feel both exciting and overwhelming. To help guide you through this season, here are 12 practical tips for new pastors designed to build a strong foundation for a thriving, faithful ministry.
5 Biblical Principles for Leading Worship With Excellence
Leading worship is more than a musical performance or emotional experience—it’s a sacred responsibility that calls for spiritual depth, humility, and a commitment to excellence. Worship leaders have the unique role of helping God’s people encounter His presence and proclaim His truth through music and praise. To lead well, worship leaders must align their leadership with Scripture. These biblical principles for worship leaders offer guidance for nurturing a worship ministry that honors God and serves His people faithfully.
15 Ways to Support Missionaries in the Field (Even If You Can’t Go)
Not everyone is called to travel across the globe to share the gospel, but every believer can play a vital role in global missions. Missionaries rely on the encouragement, prayers, and practical help of those back home. If you’ve ever wondered how to support missionaries beyond simply writing a check, there are many creative and meaningful ways to be involved in their work. Here are 15 ideas to help you make a lasting impact—right where you are.
Image Credit: Groton Historical Society
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