Thursday Evenings at All Hallows (Thursday. March 20, 2025) Is Now Online

Welcome to Thursday Evenings at All Hallows.

Today is the first day of spring in the northern hemisphere. Parts of the South and the Mid-West are recovering from deadly tornadoes, winds, and wildfires that devastated these areas. Severe weather continues to plague the central United States. Those living in the affected areas need our prayers.

The topic of this evening’s message is what Christians often get wrong about God’s house.

Reading: Hebrews 3: 1-6

Message: What Christians Often Get Wrong about God’s House

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2025/03/thursday-evenings-at-all-hallows_20.html

Please feel free to share this link with anyone who may be interested.

If you are new to Thursday Evenings at All Hallows, you may find these directions helpful:

-It is recommended that after reading or hearing a lesson to take time to reflect on what you read or heard during the period of silence which follows the lesson. It is also recommended that you do the same thing after reading or hearing the message.

-When you open the link to a video in a new tab, check auto-play to make sure it is in the off position. Otherwise, a second video with a different song will follow the first.

-If an ad plays when you open a link to a video in a new tab, click the refresh icon of your browser until the song appears.

-If a song begins partway through the video, click pause, move the slider to the beginning, and then click play.

-An ad may follow a song so as soon as the song is finished, close the tab.

May Thursday Evenings at All Hallows be a blessing to you.

Thursday's Catch: '31 Creative Easter Service Ideas to Help Your Church Reach More People' And More

31 Creative Easter Service Ideas to Help Your Church Reach More People
Looking for fresh inspiration for your church’s Easter services this year? These 31 creative Easter service ideas will help your church share the hope of the resurrection, engage your community, and make a lasting impact. From meaningful outreach events to unique worship experiences, discover practical ways to invite others and communicate the transformational message of the cross this Easter season.

Add Lightness and Simplicity: Dumb Church Means Dumbing Up Not Dumbing Down 

When it comes to the Dumb Church idea that I wrote about...the aim is the same: to add lightness and simplicity. The approach is the same as the racing car. Anything that does not need to be there should not be there.

Did Jesus really say that?
It appears the Sermon on the Mount and other direct teachings of Jesus are the source of intense debate among some who are saying, in effect, that Jesus may believe those things but “he would be wrong.”

Legislating against ‘Trump Derangement Syndrome’ is a danger to free speech
In an age of political division, the suggestion that opposition to a specific political figure could be classified as a mental health disorder is deeply concerning. Recently, some Minnesota lawmakers have proposed the formalization of “Trump Derangement Syndrome” as a legitimate mental health condition.

In Russia critics of the regime have been classified as mentally ill and locked away in state psychiatric hospitals. What these legislators are proposing is a step in that direction.

‘Traumatic’: British tourist sent home from US in chains after visa error
A British backpacker's ordeal in US immigration detention has prompted a warning from her father for travellers to meticulously check visa requirements before embarking on their journeys. Rebecca Burke, a 28-year-old graphic artist from Monmouthshire, endured a harrowing 19-day detention in a US facility.

If this is the kind of treatment that a British backpacker received over a visa error, one must wonder what kind of treatment illegal immigrants are receiving at the hands of US immigration officials. Reports of this kind of treatment of visitors to the United States is bound to have a negative impact upon the tourist industry in the United States and may result in the United States being regarded as a pariah nation. US Forestry Service cutbacks are already affecting the tourist industry associated with US national parks and recreational areas and local economies dependent upon this industry and have led to the closure of a number of popular vacation destinations.

One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic
In the Nicene Creed, we confess that “we believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.” But what do we mean by this confession?

Don’t Be Afraid to Pray Big (and Small) Prayers
We should not be afraid to pray big prayers. But then again, we should not be afraid to pray small prayers either.

Related: The Real Reason We Struggle to Pray?; Pray With an Open Bible

RFK Jr. Unveils Disturbing Plan to Combat Bird Flu
Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. thinks that the bird flu should be allowed to spread unchecked to identify birds that could be immune. Kennedy said in a recent Fox News interview that farmers “should consider maybe the possibility of letting it run through the flock so that we can identify the birds, and preserve the birds that are immune to it,” an idea that experts say would be dangerous and hurt the poultry industry.

Related: RFK Jr. Wants to Let Bird Flu Spread on Farms. Meanwhile the Pandemic Response Office Is Down to 1 Staffer

How Can Church Leaders Use AI in Discipleship?
AI can become an assistant for every pastor or church leader trying to improve and expand their discipleship processes.

Wednesday's Catch: 'Becoming a Future-Ready Church' And More

“Becoming a Future-Ready Church” featuring Adelle Banks
What shifts are needed for congregations to be future-ready? Adelle Banks reflects on the evolving nature of church hospitality, social justice, technology, and vitality. She highlights innovative approaches that foster belonging, authentic community, and discipleship in a rapidly changing world.

Most Churches Report Good Financial Health
According to recent data, most churches believe they’re in good financial health, and they have the budget numbers to prove it.

Half of churches seeing growth since COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns: study
Around half of Protestant churches in the United States have experienced growth in worship service attendance since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a recent study. A report by Lifeway Research published Tuesday found that 52% of surveyed Protestant congregations saw their worship attendance grow by at least 4% over the past two years. By contrast, 33% of the surveyed congregations said attendance had plateaued with between 4% decline to 4% growth, while 15% reported experiencing over 4% decline in worship attendance.

When the Church Really Changed
When you think of the beginning of contemporary approaches to ministry – evangelism and outreach, music and structure – what comes to mind?

Evangelical clergy largely deny human causes of climate change
Evangelical Protestant clergy are outliers among their peers in rejecting the scientific consensus that earth’s climate is changing and human actions are a major cause. Nearly 80% of evangelical Protestant clergy reject this idea, which is strongly held by the scientific community. This group’s rate of rejection is quadruple what is found in Mainline Protestant clergy and more than triple what is found in Catholic and Black Protestant clergy.

Two views of government as a Christian concern
These debates about American government are in fact matters of urgently important concern for theology and the church.

Blowback on GOP's proposed cuts to school meal programs
Children's advocates are crying foul after House Republicans called for $12 billion in cuts to the Community Eligibility Provision, which allows high-poverty school districts to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students regardless of their ability to pay.

Related: Over 2 Billion Meals a Year: A Brief History of the School Breakfast Program

These developments should concern churches that partner with schools to provide kids with packets of easy-to-prepare foods that can be slipped in their backpacks so they do not go hungry over weekends and school breaks. These kids rely on free school breakfasts and lunches as the main meals of their day.

GOP cuts to Medicaid could threaten rural hospitals
Southwest Memorial Hospital in Cortez, Colorado, received more than 59,000 patient visits last year. That’s enough to treat everyone in Cortez and surrounding Montezuma County twice. Staff call the small hospital a bedrock of both medical care and the local economy. But warnings that the Republican-controlled federal government might cut Medicaid funding have community members worried about the facility’s future. They are not alone. Nationally, health policy experts warn that any cuts to Medicaid are likely to cause more trouble for rural hospitals than urban ones. That’s due in part because rural residents are more likely to be enrolled in Medicaid

Some rural counties in United States are already in what may be described as "health care deserts," areas that have no health care providers and as a result the residents of these areas must travel long distances for health care services (if they have transportation.) These cuts will make the situation even worse than it already is.

'Lifeline': GOP revolts as Trump orders 'maximum' cuts for popular lending program
Late Friday night, March 14, President Donald Trump issued an executive order telling federal agencies to cut the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) "to the maximum extent." The CDFI Fund, established via the Riegle Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994, provides loans to small businesses in poorer areas — urban and suburban as well as rural — that are underserved by banks.

Pastors and other church leaders and ordinary Christians need to be aware of these directives since they will have a negative impact on the economies of many of the communities in which they live and work.

7 Excellent Reasons to Learn to Say No
Are there many demands on your time? Ron Edmondson explores the importance of saying “no” as a crucial skill for leaders, explaining how declining requests can protect personal and professional boundaries. Leaders are often flooded with time-consuming requests, yet constantly agreeing to them can lead to burnout and hinder effectiveness. Saying “no” guards a leader’s integrity by preventing them from becoming the indispensable center of the organization.

12 Must-Have Resources for Pastors to Grow Their Ministry
Pastors seeking to expand and enrich their ministries have access to a wealth of resources designed to support various aspects of church leadership, spiritual growth, and community engagement. Below is a curated list of 12 essential resources for pastors in their mission to nurture and grow their congregations.

5 Worship Leading Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Congregation
It’s easy to falling in the habit of weekly ritual, especially for worship leaders. Whether you’ve been leading worship for ten weeks or ten years, why not take a moment to review these worship leading mistakes to see if there isn’t room for improvement in your ministry?

Easter Vigil Brings the Story of Salvation to a City in Need
The Easter Vigil is a powerful tradition of reliving and remembering the story of our salvation, usually celebrated within the comfort of a sanctuary. Kate Payton shows how a multi-site church in Northwest Washington, DC, took this sacred practice beyond its typical confines, partnering with other local churches to hold an Easter Vigil across multiple locations. This unique experience enabled people to connect with the city in a deeper, more profound way—facing the realities of Good Friday in our community, and proclaiming a message of hope and resurrection.

Rationalizing vaccine hesitancy: Conspiracy beliefs arise after fear-driven avoidance, study suggests
New research published in Psychology & Health indicates that when people become fearful about vaccines, it can make them less willing to get vaccinated. This hesitancy, in turn, might lead individuals to embrace conspiracy theories about vaccines as a way to justify their decision to avoid immunization.

6 Characteristics of a Strong Evangelist According to the Bible
Spreading the Gospel is at the heart of Christian ministry, and evangelists play a crucial role in sharing the message of Jesus Christ. The scripture provides guidance on what makes a strong evangelist, highlighting key qualities that enable them to effectively reach others. Whether preaching to large crowds or engaging in one-on-one conversations, a characteristics of an evangelist embody faith, dedication, and love for God and people.

Tuesday's Catch: 'The Danger of an Inward Focused Church' And More

The Danger of an Inward Focused Church
While it is essential to care for the flock, a church that only looks inward risks losing sight of its mission and identity as God’s people in the world. Christ’s call to his church has always been outward focused: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).

'We risk losing more than income': Farmers have a new beef with the Trump administration
The executive director of Northern New Mexico’s food bank, The Food Depot, says the recent U.S. Department of Agriculture’s elimination of a program that connected food banks to local food producers is “devastating.” The Regional Farm to Food Bank program, created under the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act, is currently funded through the USDA Local Food Purchase Assistance, one of two federal programs the USDA recently canceled.

Small banks in mostly red districts could lose funding under new Trump order
The Trump administration is targeting a federal program that subsidizes small banks in some of the poorest communities across the country, particularly in red states, as part of a wider White House push to reduce the size of government.

Rio Grande bishop ‘insulted’ by Trump DHS letter implying migrant shelter may have broken laws
The Trump administration, in its escalating crackdown on both legal and illegal immigration, has halted government funding for migrant shelters, including one operated by the Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande’s Borderland Ministries, while suggesting without evidence that the diocese and other organizations sheltering migrants may have broken the law.

Related: New York bishop condemns Trump administration’s attempt to deport Palestinian protester

Among Christian ministries, two opposing views of Trump’s sudden, chaotic aid cuts
Evangelicals were essential in reelecting Donald Trump. Now, his sudden and drastic cuts to aid programs are forcing some evangelical nonprofits to end work and fire personnel, while Focus on the Family and other conservative groups praise the aid cuts and deny any harm is being done.

VOICES: Is Gen Z truly experiencing a religious revival?
My Christian higher education colleagues and I are witnessing a trend-reversal emerging among Gen Z teens and young adults — and not just at Asbury University. In the last few years, we have seen....

Related: Bible sales surge by 87% as Generation Z rediscovers faith

What Business Leaders in the Church Want Pastors to Know: An Interview with Steve Graves
Thom and Sam interview Steve Graves and discuss how pastors should shepherd business leaders in their churches. Steve has been coaching business leaders for decades and has a deep knowledge of the church. He shares his wisdom in this episode.

Engaging with “Practicing the Way”: Nine Thoughts on John Mark Comer’s Best Seller
Pastor Daniel Schreiner explains why he warns his church members against reading Practicing the Way and following its advice.

"We Will Go (Send Us)"
"We Will Go (Send Us)" is from Emu Youth's album No Love Is Higher. It make a good "sending out" song for the conclusion of a service.

Steered by Spectacle: Jacques Ellul and the Illusion of Online Engagement
Social media platforms deceive us into thinking we’re accomplishing more than we are.

When Small Groups Replace Sunday Church Attendance
In recent years, a growing trend has emerged in many Christian communities: believers are increasingly prioritizing small group gatherings over traditional Sunday church attendance. This shift raises important questions about the role of corporate worship, discipleship, and the future of the local church. While small groups offer intimacy and accountability, can they truly replace the significance of gathering in Sunday church attendance?

Mississippi reports first outbreak of highly pathogenic bird flu strain in US since 2017
Mississippi state and federal officials have confirmed an outbreak of a strain of bird flu not reported in the U.S. since 2017, with quarantine and depopulation efforts already underway.

7 Ways to Live Out God’s Command to Be Fruitful and Multiply—Beyond Just Having Children
God’s command to “Be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 1:28) is often associated solely with procreation. While growing families is one way to fulfill this directive, its meaning extends far beyond childbirth. This divine instruction calls believers to increase and expand in every area of life—spiritually, relationally, and even professionally. Living out this command means using our God-given abilities to bring abundance into the world in ways that glorify Him. Here are seven powerful ways to live out this command beyond just having children.

Monday's Catch: 'Who was St Patrick and why is he patron saint of Ireland?" And More

Who was St Patrick and why is he patron saint of Ireland?
The 17 of March is St Patrick’s Day. Who was St Patrick and why is he the patron saint of Ireland? This is the story....

Related: Here's what you need to know about St. Patrick's Day

DOGE sackings at NOAA spark new warning over tornado response as 37 killed in twisters
After a series of powerful tornadoes swept through the Midwest on Friday night into Saturday morning, killing at least 37, many are voicing new concerns about DOGE cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which issues warnings about dangerous storms.

Related: Death toll rises after powerful storms hit 7 US states; over 100,000 remain without power, Trump Acknowledges Killer Storms Hours After Golf Boast, 'They lost lives': Ex-prosecutor blasts Trump cuts to weather agency as storms kill dozens, As NOAA braces for more cuts, scientists say public safety is at risk, Trump ABANDONS West Virginia After Devastating Floods, and MEDIA BLACKOUT: America’s Poorest Counties Devastated By Catastrophic Flooding

Post-pandemic, benevolence declines worldwide
Benevolence may be slipping around the world after reaching a high point from 2021 to 2023, according to a new Gallup survey.

3 Essentials for Moving Your Church from Hoarding to Healthy
Moving a church from hoarding to healthy requires a season of renewal fueled by active repentance and returning to the Lord.

When Ministry Unexpectedly Hurts
Ministry sometimes feels like a slap in the face, often when you least expect it to happen.

Interpreting Scripture: A General Introduction
Interpreting Scripture is the process of personally discovering what God through his human authors intended the biblical text to mean and effect. Through exegesis and theology one assesses, synthesizes, and applies God’s inerrant Word.

5 Examples of Evangelism in the Bible and What We Can Learn from Them
Evangelism is a central theme in the Bible, demonstrating God’s desire for all people to hear the good news of salvation. Throughout Scripture, we find powerful examples of individuals and groups who shared their faith boldly and effectively. Their stories provide valuable lessons for believers today, inspiring us to spread the gospel with love, courage, and wisdom. Here are five examples of evangelism in the Bible and what we can learn from them.

Sundays at All Hallows (Sunday, March 16, 2025) Is Now Online

Welcome to Sundays at All Hallows.

This coming Monday, March 17, 2025, is the feast of Saint Patrick, who was a fifth century missionary to Ireland and later a bishop in Ireland. He is credited with bringing Christianity to various parts of the Emerald Isle. Patrick was not the first missionary to Ireland, but he was an important one. He is regarded as the patron saint of Ireland and the apostle to the Irish.

Patrick tried to establish the diocesan system in Ireland, a system in which churches are organized into dioceses, areas each of which is controlled by a bishop. This system did not survive his death.

Ireland was rural and had no towns. Its people were divided into tribes, each with its own chief. What would take the place of the diocesan system in Ireland would be a loose network of monasteries, Christian communities of both men and women, some celibate, others married, led by an abbot and in some cases by an abbess. Unlike later monasteries these Irish monasteries were not cloistered.

Irish monks would play an important role in the evangelization of Scotland and the re-evangelization of what would become England. They also brought Christianity to parts of Northern Europe and even as far south as Northern Italy.

The topic of this Sunday’s message is what Paul means by “bodily desires.”

Readings: Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18; Philippians 3: 17 - 4: 1; and Luke 13: 31-35

Message: What Does Paul Mean by “Bodily Desires”?

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2025/03/sundays-at-all-hallows-sunday-march-16.html

Please feel free to share this link with anyone who may be interested.

If you are new to Sundays at All Hallows, you may find these directions helpful:

-It is recommended that after reading or hearing each lesson to take time to reflect on what you read or heard during the period of silence which follows each lesson. It is also recommended that you do the same thing after reading or hearing the message.

-When you open the link to a video in a new tab, check auto-play to make sure it is in the off position. Otherwise, a second video with a different song will follow the first.

-If an ad plays when you open a link to a video in a new tab, click the refresh icon of your browser until the song appears.

-If a song begins partway through the video, click pause, move the slider to the beginning, and then click play.

-An ad may follow a song so as soon as the song is finished, close the tab.

May Sundays at All Hallows be a blessing to you.

Saturday Lagniappe: '6 Things Discipleship Isn’t' And More

6 Things Discipleship Isn’t
"Why aren’t more Christians committed to making disciples as Jesus commanded (Matt. 28:18–20)? I wonder if such reluctance stems from misconceptions about what discipleship entails. Perhaps by understanding what discipleship isn’t, we can dismantle unnecessary barriers and more readily embrace Jesus’s call."

It’s not too late to abandon “Christian nationalism”
"Even if the left exaggerates the dangers of Christian nationalism, the way the term is being adopted on parts of the right, especially as an online phenomenon, should be equally concerning to serious Christians."

VOICES: Should religious charter schools be funded by public tax money?
"A recent New York Times column titled, 'The Urgent Supreme Court Case That’s Not Getting Enough Attention,' penned by Linda Greenhouse, a Pulitzer Prize-winning, longtime Supreme Court reporter, has a headline that should arrest the reader’s attention because it is, if anything, an understatement."

How a Republican Plan to Cut Universal Free School Meals Could Affect 12 Million Students
"... by one estimate, the Republicans’ plan would affect nearly a quarter of the students in the nation’s public schools." 

Pandemic fears as NEW coronavirus discovered by China-linked scientist
Discoveries like this one should concern Americans in light of the first Trump administration's mishandling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the current Trump administration's withdrawal from the WHO and its dismantling of federal public health agencies, and the politicization of what are from a public health perspective proven, effectives measures to contain the spread of a serious epidemic. Considering what happened during the COVID-19 pandemic, it should particularly concern church leaders.

Trump brings back family separation policy, and protests ensue
Donald Trump’s return to detaining immigrant children and families is reviving a brutal process from his first administration and must be heavily protested, human rights advocate Amy Fischer said during a March 12 press briefing.

Trump admin deports 10-year-old U.S. citizen recovering from brain cancer to Mexico
A Texas family on their way to an emergency medical check-up for their 10-year-old daughter, who is recovering from brain cancer, was detained by immigration authorities and hastily deported to Mexico last month.

A Ukrainian Prayer
In response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, John Rutter composed a musical setting to a Ukranian prayer.

Three months into 2025, US measles cases surpass total for 2024
Three months into 2025, the United States has surpassed the total number of measles cases in the country for all of last year. The high number of cases is driven by a multistate outbreak that has reached nearly 300 cases. As of Friday, Texas has reported 259 cases this year, New Mexico has tallied 35 cases and Oklahoma reported two. Experts say this is probably a severe undercount.

Related: RFK Jr. Has Already Broken His Vaccine Promise

Four Permissions to Give Yourself (and Others) 

"I once ran a leadership program led by Bill Selby, founder of the Center for Pastoral Effectiveness of the Rockies. At the beginning he counseled participants to give themselves four permissions. They are great guidelines for how to handle yourself, as well as treat others."

The Etiquette of Speech
"There are three grave errors I think we can fall into when it comes to speech etiquette, and we should be wary of each of them."

Friday's Catch: 'How to Level Up Evangelistic Growth in Your Church' And More

How to Level Up Evangelistic Growth in Your Church
"What fuels church health? Many factors contribute, but one of the most significant—maybe the most significant—is intentional evangelism. In this issue, we explore data from Exponential’s “Becoming Five Multiplication Study,” which surveyed more than 1,000 Protestant churches in the United States. The study evaluated churches on a scale from Level 1 (declining), Level 2 (stagnant), Level 3 (adding), Level 4 (reproducing) to Level 5 (multiplying). The results reveal reasons for both celebration and areas of concern."

4 Markers of the Early Church: Reclaiming the Vision for Biblical Community
Pastors and church leaders have the responsibility of bringing a compelling vision for biblical community to their congregations.

Learning to Disagree as Christians
"As the pandemic demonstrated repeatedly, we need to learn how to handle severe disagreements in healthy ways. I’m interested in how to disagree about non-creedal, non-confessional questions in ways that preserve Christian fellowship and commend Christian community to the surrounding world. How can we learn to get better at disagreeing so that we can avoid the painful consequences of being bad at it?"

The Significance of the Last Supper: Why It Still Matters Today
The Last Supper is one of the most iconic moments in Christian history. It was a meal that carried profound meaning, marking the final gathering of Jesus and His disciples before His crucifixion. Beyond being a historical event, it continues to hold deep spiritual and theological importance for believers today.

John Wesley, Anglican prist, leading figure in the 18th century Evangelical Revival, and founder of Methodism, had a high view of the sacrament of the Lord's Supper as an important means of grace and encouraged early Methodists to receive communion regularly and frequently. He himself received communion at least weekly and more often during the seasons of Christmas and Easter. Yet in the United States many Methodist congregations only celebrate the Lord's Supper once a month. This is not due to a shortage of ordained clergy as may have been the case in the past. The United Methodist Church's Book of Discipline permits the licensing of local pastors, lay persons, to officiate at the celebration of the Lord's Supper and consecrate and distribute the elements, as well as to preach sermons and provide pastoral care.

Three Key Principles of Biblical Interpretation
"There’s one thing you can do as a Christian that’s more important than anything else. Study the Bible. But sometimes it can feel overwhelming. With so many different authors, genres, and cultural contexts, how can we be sure we’re interpreting it correctly? That’s where hermeneutics comes in—a fancy word that simply means the method of interpreting the Bible properly. Here are three key principles of interpretation to help you study the Bible with confidence."

From flattening the curve to widening the circle: Zoom church 5 years later
"Five years ago, at Oakhurst Baptist Church we sounded the call that we would be joining many other churches in going virtual to help flatten the coronavirus curve and do our part to slow the spread of the disease. There was no way of knowing at the time that what we thought would be a two- to three-week retreat into social distancing to “flatten the curve” would turn into a years-long pandemic that would claim millions of lives and fundamentally change the way we move through the world. One thing that proved to be a positive change, though, is the way our community connection has grown through the continued use of Zoom for hybrid worship and other gatherings."

Measles cases pick up as RFK promotes unproven treatments
Cases of the incredibly contagious measles virus are continuing to rise in Texas and across the US as the nation's top health official promotes treatments not supported by health experts.

Related: Former Surgeon General: Unvaccinated Measles Outbreaks Show Why We Need Government Clarity on Vaccines, Health officials prepare for measles spread as disinformation threatens already low vaccination rates, and RFK Jr. has made several claims about measles. Here's what the science says

What Does the Bible Teach About Demons and Spiritual Warfare?
In this series, How to Teach Difficult Doctrines, we’ll be offering reflections about how youth workers can teach and talk about difficult doctrines and issues. Some are challenging because they’re confusing, others because they’re controversial, and some because they’re simply difficult for youth to accept.

If People Smarter Than Me Reject Christianity, Isn’t It Likely That They’re Right and I’m Wrong?
"...In 1962, the American philosopher Thomas Kuhn wrote a groundbreaking book titled The Structure of Scientific Revolutions. In that book he argued that science doesn’t work in this linear “just the facts, ma’am” sort of way. Instead, facts are collected, sifted, and interpreted in light of a person’s preexisting worldview—what Kuhn calls a 'paradigm.' And that worldview is not so much determined by the facts as it is controlling of what a person accepts as a fact in the first place."

VOICES: How spiritual maturity prevents Christian deconstruction
"Emotionally mature teenagers in loving families do not run away from home. Likewise, spiritually mature Christians who are filled with God's love do not run away from the Lord to deconstruct their faith."

8 Truths in Luke 10 That Could Change How You Share the Gospel
"When Jesus sent out the 72 in Luke 10, he revealed timeless truths about sharing the gospel. If we want to follow his example, we can’t miss these key lessons...."

Thursday's Catch: 'Missionaries Wanted' And More

Missionaries Wanted
The Episcopal Church needs missionaries. If you’re a regular reader of Covenant, you probably know the statistics and you also likely know that the Episcopal Church needs genuine spiritual renewal. To be clear, this renewal can only finally come from the Spirit of God and must be grounded in the clear and courageous proclamation of the gospel in both word and sacrament. Other initiatives apart from this amount to chasing after the wind. For this renewal, we need a new breed of missionaries.

The Northeast is the only region for Southern Baptist growth, analysis shows
Churches in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont grew in the number of congregants by 10%, according to a Lifeway Research analysis of Southern Baptist church statistics.

Beyond the Numbers: Measuring Ministry Impact
For too long, churches have equated ministry success with attendance numbers. Even when things were going well in most churches, numerical data was often one-dimensional without any real evaluative worth. While filling pews is certainly the average church’s goal, especially in a post-COVID-19 lockdown reality, it's a limited metric that doesn't capture the true depth and breadth of a ministry's impact. In an age where authentic connection and transformative experiences are paramount, we need to move beyond the numbers game and explore more meaningful ways to measure the fruitfulness of our ministries.

Faith-based refugee resettlement groups concerned about Trump administration's new plans
In a status report sought by a federal judge, the Trump administration’s lawyers argued the State Department is not required by law to provide reception and placement benefits to refugees when they arrive in the U.S.

5 Tips for Rightsizing Stewardship in Your Church
In the face of declining membership and shifting demographic patterns, many local churches are rightsizing stewardship for long-term sustainability and vibrant ministry. Ken Sloane outlines ways churches can navigate this challenge effectively.

Gluttony and the Holy Spirit’s fruit of self-control
While food is undoubtedly a blessing, it’s important to discuss a topic often overlooked: gluttony. This excessive indulgence goes against the Christian spirit of self-control and can lead to adverse spiritual and physical consequences.

15 Uplifting Worship Songs Every Church Should Sing
Worship is a powerful way for believers to connect with God, express their faith, and uplift one another. Choosing the best church worship songs for a congregation can set the tone for meaningful worship experiences that inspire hearts and deepen faith. Whether a church is looking for contemporary songs or classic hymns, these are 15 of the best church worship songs, uplifting music should be part of any church’s worship repertoire.

Persevere in Prayer: Because No, It’s Not Easy
One of the best ways to introduce people to spiritual practices like prayer, Bible reading, and churchgoing is not by overselling how easy it is to adopt these habits but by reminding people of just how challenging they can be. Spiritual habits are hard. They require effort and discipline.

3 Difficulties in Starting Small Groups After Easter
Allen White shares what he has leearned about launching small groups off Easter and how to sustain 80 percent of those new spring groups in the fall.

4 Vital Aspects of Balanced Small Group Goals
There are four key goals that can keep group ministry in balance. It’s all about doing each one well and in connection with the others.

Cuts to Education Department threaten religious liberty, BJC head warns
The Trump administration’s decision to cut nearly half the U.S. Department of Education workforce is a carless action that will wreak havoc in public schools and erode religious freedom, Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty said.

What Medicaid Cuts Would Mean for Vaccination Rates
The House Republican budget has sparked fears of massive Medicaid cuts, calling into question how public health could be impacted in the short and long term.

In the House Speaker Mike Johnson' own congressional district one in four people receive Medicaid and one in five, SNAP. His constituents are reported to feel that he is turning his back on them and their children. Add to this picture that the Louisiana Department of Health no longer promotes vaccination or advertises the availability of vaccines.

Kids on Mission: Not Just Ministry to Kids but Ministry Through Kids
"...one of the most exciting aspects of discipleship is how God involves children in his mission."

3 Critical Components of Rethinking Outreach
Many church outreach efforts lack impact due to marketing-driven approaches, unmet community needs, and internal focus. John Hughes shares the Listen, Look, Lead model that emphasizes relationship-building, understanding local needs, and servant leadership to foster meaningful community engagement.

Image Credit: St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Kansas City Missouri/FaithStreet

Thursday Evenings at All Hallows (Thursday, March 13, 2025) Is Now Online

Welcome to Thursday Evenings at All Hallows.

While God’s love for us is steadfast, Christians’ love for one another too often falters. Among the consequences are divisions in a church and eventually the tragedy of a church split.

The topic of this evening’s message is surviving the trauma of a church split.

Reading: Galatians 5: 2-15

Message: Surviving the Trauma of a Church Split

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2025/03/thursday-evenings-at-all-hallows_13.html

Please feel free to share this link with anyone who may be interested.

If you are new to Thursday Evenings at All Hallows, you may find these directions helpful:

-It is recommended that after reading or hearing a lesson to take time to reflect on what you read or heard during the period of silence which follows the lesson. It is also recommended that you do the same thing after reading or hearing the message.

-When you open the link to a video in a new tab, check auto-play to make sure it is in the off position. Otherwise, a second video with a different song will follow the first.

-If an ad plays when you open a link to a video in a new tab, click the refresh icon of your browser until the song appears.

-If a song begins partway through the video, click pause, move the slider to the beginning, and then click play.

-An ad may follow a song so as soon as the song is finished, close the tab.

May Thursday Evenings at All Hallows be a blessing to you.

 

Wedesday's Catch: 'Presiding bishop affirms support for church planters....' And More

Presiding bishop affirms support for church planters as they worry about future of network, grants
The Rev. Lauren Grubaugh Thomas is in the early stages of forming a new worshiping community in Sterling Ranch, Colorado. It would seem to be an ideal location – a rapidly growing suburb of Denver with a high concentration of young families. Grubaugh Thomas says she couldn’t hope to do it alone.

Evangelical groups hold vigil against Trump and Musk's foreign aid cuts
The hope, said one faith leader, was to dispute the idea that Christians, 'including those that come from more conservative or evangelical leanings,' support cuts to USAID.

At Washington installation, Cardinal McElroy calls for hope, mercy and human dignity 

'Mercy and compassion must be our first impulse when confronted with sin and human failure,' said the cardinal, who will fill the seat vacated by Cardinal Wilton Gregory, who retired at the beginning of this year.

10 Facts About Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde—The First Female Bishop of Washington
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde is a trailblazing leader in the Episcopal Church, making history as the first female bishop of Washington. Her journey is one of faith, leadership, and advocacy. Here are ten key facts about her remarkable life and career.

90 year old's secret sausage roll recipe helps raises £30,000 for church
A 90-year-old former RAF driver has helped to save his local church, after raising £30,000 through the production and sale of sausage rolls and malt loaf.

Seely Suffolk, holy Suffolk, so named for its many churches.

Those Who Are Genuine Among You
Divisions in the church can be part of God's sifting process. When a church is unhealthy, those who desire God's glory stand out. Conflict in a church reveals what is in our hearts.

Led by a Strong Pastor: 8 Signs of a Healthy Church Leadership
A strong pastor plays a crucial role in fostering healthy church leadership, ensuring that the congregation grows spiritually, relationally, and missionally. A church that is thriving under solid leadership will exhibit certain key characteristics that demonstrate its vitality and effectiveness. Here are eight signs of a healthy church leadership.

Do Your Sunday Songs Pass the Test? A Response to Brandon Ryan
On March 9, 2025, Brandon Ryan posted an article at TGC’s website that challenged us to carefully examine the biblical fidelity of the songs we sing on Sunday. I found myself in large agreement with him, except for the one song he chose to critique. He cited the song that came from Hillsong titled, “What a Beautiful Name” and specifically one line in it: “You didn’t want heaven without us.” Says Ryan....

A number of songs that enjoy widespread popularity have questionable lyrics from a biblical and theological viwpoint. It may be just a phrase or a word. One song which comes to mind suggests that Christians have already experienced the resurrection through its choice of words.

10 Mistakes I Made When Learning How to Pray
Here are the mistakes I have made—and lessons learnt—in the 20 years since my second year at university.

Crowd Sourcing Morality
By now, I am used to seeing everything go online, whether I like it or not. Banking, shopping, dating, and even teaching online don’t surprise me anymore. Like many, I read and think about how online interaction has fundamentally changed aspects of our common life, such as our politics. But despite being a professor of ethics and religion, I failed to give much thought to where most people turn when making ethical decisions, and how the migration online could shift these processes too. And then Facebook’s algorithms brought me AITA.

Wanted: Ambidextrous Apologists
A single day. Two conversations. In the morning, defending Christianity’s sexual ethic against accusations of hate. In the afternoon, defending Christianity’s inclusive offer of grace against accusations of permissiveness.

Image Credit: Lauren Grubaugh Thomas

Tuesday's Catch: 'The Hidden Opportunity of Hospitality in Churches' And More

The Hidden Opportunity of Hospitality in Churches: An Interview with Danny Franks
Three out of four churches in America have no type of welcome ministry. Why do church leaders fail to see its importance? What are the most significant challenges in starting and maintaining a welcome or guest services ministry? How might hospitality be underutilized in churches? Thom and Sam interview Danny Franks of Summit Church to learn more about this important and often-ignored topic.

Is America’s Religious Landscape Changing?
Recent research from Pew shows the long-term decline of Christianity in America has leveled off. Ryan Burge, director of “Faith Counts,” explains this latest data.

CINO: Christian In Name Only
We’ve all heard the term RINO. It means “Republican In Name Only.” Tragically, a significant segment of American religion has become what I call CINO, “Christian in name only.”

When does a Christian cease to be a disciple of Jesus and become a "Christian in name only"? Martin Thielen shares his view of the matter. Nominalism, it must be noted, is not a new development.

Why empathy is under assault today
If empathy were a person, she would be in therapy for abuse. After a life of virtue, empathy has been cast into the street by an array of detractors as varied as billionaires, psychologists and evangelicals.

One is inclined to suspect that this attack on empathy, often confused with overidentification, "a very strong feeling that you are similar to someone and that you can understand that person or their situation because of this, in a way that may be harmful or unhealthy," is a rationalization for what amounts to a lack of compassion on the part of its critics. Empathy is "the ability to share someone else's feelings or experiences by imagining what it would be like to be in that person's situation."

Defunded evangelical aid groups are reaping what the religious right sowed
Trump wooed them with his promises of the cultural domination they had been seeking since the late 1970s, but the honeymoon may be over.

Panelists lay out the negative economic impact of Trump’s deportations
Donald Trump’s persecution of undocumented immigrants is already having an adverse effect on the U.S. economy, a financial expert said during a virtual press briefing hosted by America’s Voice.

Proposed cuts to SNAP benefits could deepen hunger and hurt local economies, experts warn
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program has long been a crucial lifeline for millions of Americans facing food insecurity. Each year, approximately 42 million people rely on SNAP to meet their food needs. However, recent proposals from the Trump administration and Congressional leaders to roll back SNAP benefits nationwide are raising alarms, with many wondering how these cuts would impact their local communities. New data from the Urban Institute sheds light on just how significant the gap between SNAP benefits and local food costs could become if these cuts move forward.

Scripture as a Divine and Human Book
As we approach the Bible as God’s Word and a collection of writings from the hand of men, we must rightly appreciate both the divine and human element of Scripture and understand how they relate.

How Your Church Members Could Make Your Sermons Better—Before You Preach Them
Every week, I sit down and read my sermon out loud to one or more church members and ask for feedback. I’m not a great preacher, but I can say with 100 percent confidence that my preaching has gotten much better over the years because of our weekly sermon previews. I wonder if they could help you, too, my pastor friend.

Arts and Media in Christianity: How Visual Arts, Music, and Media Shape Faith and Worship
In today’s fast-paced world, faith and worship have evolved to incorporate various forms of artistic expression and modern media. From the sacred visuals of paintings and sculptures in churches to the uplifting tunes of contemporary Christian music, arts and media play a vital role in connecting believers with their faith. These forms of expression not only enrich the worship experience but also serve as powerful tools for spreading the message of Christianity across different cultures and communities. But how exactly do arts and media influence the way Christians practice their faith?

COVID-19: What Did We Gain and Lose by Livestreaming?
Chris Walker examines the benefits and liabilities of livestreaming church services.

Essential Pages for the Best Church Websites
A well-designed website is one of the most powerful tools a church can have for reaching new visitors and engaging its congregation. The best church websites serve as a digital front door, offering essential information and fostering community engagement. To be effective, every church website should include specific pages that inform, inspire, and connect.

What’s the Perfect Small Group Size?
Small groups are an essential part of church life, providing a place for believers to grow in faith, build relationships, and serve one another. However, one of the most important factors in a successful small group is its size. Too small, and the group may lack energy and diversity; too large, and members may struggle to connect personally. So, what is the perfect small group size? Let’s explore key factors that determine the ideal number of participants.

Personal Time With God Is the Most Important Part of Your Day
Do you struggle to have personal time with God each day? If so, read these brief but powerful (and practical!) insights about setting aside time for devotions and prayer.

How to Draw Near to God Through Writing
If we draw near to God, he will draw near to us (James 4:8). But how do we draw near to God practically? What does closeness mean in proximity to Someone we can’t physically see, hear, or feel?

Monday's Catch: 'Is Christianity’s statistical decline slowing?' And More

Is Christianity’s statistical decline slowing?
Between the New Atheist movement of the 2000s, clergy shortages in the Catholic Church, and the demographic collapse of Mainline Protestant sects in the United States, the story of religion for the past 35 years has been one of persistent decline. However, this may be about to change. Maybe.

Episcopal Church-affiliated university loses accreditation, will undergo 90-day arbitration
A university in North Carolina affiliated with The Episcopal Church has again lost accreditation, but will undergo an arbitration process to try and reverse the decision. Saint Augustine’s University announced last Thursday that its effort to appeal a decision by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to end its accreditation had failed.

Related: Saint Augustine’s University loses appeal, pursues arbitration in fight to keep accreditation

Diocese of New Jersey Leaving Mortgage Business
For the last 15 years, the Diocese of New Jersey has essentially served as a mortgage lender, using a fully legal—if unusual—system that has allowed 20 of its closed churches to remain houses of worship while ensuring a revenue stream for some remnant congregations. Citing financial management problems, Bishop Sally French has decided to phase out the practice. She announced on March 1 that diocesan staff had worked during the last several months with its 19 remaining debtor congregations, which include a Buddhist temple and a Conservative Jewish synagogue, to get them caught up on their mortgage payments.

Canadian primate’s commission recommends cuts to ‘top-heavy’ church structures 

The Anglican Church of Canada should consider making major cuts to the size of its governance gatherings and committees, says the report of a commission tasked with reimagining its future.

Christian Groups Kick Off Lent with Letters Objecting to Trump Moves on Budget and Immigration
Prominent Christian leaders, denominations and organizations are beginning the religious season of Lent by condemning actions taken by President Donald Trump, urging fellow faithful to advocate for immigrants and the poor while highlighting concerns that Congress may cut social safety net programs in a forthcoming federal budget package.

Jesus was a refugee says the Bishop of the Diocese of the Mid-Atlantic
"the Holy Family, including the Lord himself, [were] refugees in the true sense of the term. Their journey from Bethlehem to Egypt fits the common definition of a refugee seeking asylum in a different country to escape threats to their lives."

The church and Donald Trump
Amid the rising international tensions and overwhelming flood of executive orders under the new Trump administration, it is the duty of Anglicans in Canada to speak up for the marginalized and vulnerable, says Canon Maggie Helwig, rector of St. Stephen-in-the-Fields Church in Toronto. In a phone interview she took while multitasking on preparations for the church’s homeless drop-in program, Helwig told the Anglican Journal her goal was to bring that message to her parish.

Related: What’s a Trade War and How Did We End Up In One?

3 Ways to Help Your Church Value Membership
Is church membership in the Bible? There’s no specific verse, but it’s important for the health of believers and the mission of the church.

The Call to Lead: Discerning God’s Voice in Your Leadership Journey
When we talk about calling in the Bible, we see it in two ways: specific callings and general callings. God called individuals for distinct purposes—Noah to build an ark, Moses to lead Israel out of slavery, Paul to preach the gospel to the Gentiles. These were unique, undeniable moments where God directed their lives in a clear, powerful way. But alongside these specific callings, there is also a general calling that applies to all believers. Jesus commissioned His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19)—a call that isn’t reserved for just a select few but for every Christian, regardless of their role or position.

What’s Ahead: Coming Trends in Leading Worship for the Local Church
Worship in the local church has always evolved to reflect cultural shifts, technological advancements, and theological insights. As churches seek to engage their congregations more meaningfully, new trends are emerging that will shape how worship is led in the coming years. Leading worship for the local church is no longer just about music; it involves fostering a holistic, immersive, and participatory experience that deepens the congregation’s connection with God.

Do Your Sunday Songs Pass the Test?
How does a pastor decide which songs to introduce? Why one song and not another? Here are a gauntlet of questions I ask when considering a new song for my church. If we’re going to sing a song on Sunday, it’s got to pass all the way through.

Related: Music Ministry with Modest Resources

5 songs to sing at church during Lent
Here are five traditional hymns commonly sung at church services during the season of Lent, including their historical background and one or two verses from each song.

From the pews to the press: a new communication blueprint for the Church
In an era where media narratives shape public perception, churches often struggle to make their voices heard. Rev Peter Crumpler, an Anglican minister, former Director of Communications for the Church of England, and a seasoned journalist, has spent years working to bridge the gap between faith communities and the press. In this conversation, he shares insights into how churches can engage meaningfully with the media, the challenges of communicating in a digital world, and why proactive storytelling is essential for faith communities today.

Measles Is Back. And a Lot More People Are at Risk
Contrary to statements by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., outbreaks of this deadly disease are highly unusual. The U.S. declared measles eliminated more than 20 years ago, thanks to an exceptionally safe and effective vaccine. But efforts to undermine confidence in that vaccine have contributed to these recent outbreaks. There are things we can do, individually and collectively, to protect our most vulnerable and hopefully eliminate measles in this country again.

The call to forgive others: a reflection for Lent
With Lent underway, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the importance of forgiving others.

Defense of the Faith: How to Confidently Stand for Christian Beliefs in a Skeptical World
In today’s world, Christianity is often met with skepticism, criticism, and doubt. From university campuses to social media platforms, believers face a growing wave of secularism that challenges their beliefs. This leaves many feeling ill-equipped to defend their faith when confronted with tough questions. Whether you’re speaking with a friend, coworker, or someone you meet online, defending the Christian faith can be an overwhelming task. However, with the right tools and mindset, you can stand confidently and effectively represent your beliefs in a skeptical world.

Sundays at All Hallows (Sunday, March 9, 2025) Is Now Online

Welcome to Sundays at All Hallows.

This Sunday’s service follows the order of service for A Service of the Word (SW 1) from the Anglican Church of Canada’s Eucharistic Prayers, Services of the Word, and Night Prayer Supplementary to The Book of Alternative Services. It conforms closely to the shape of the liturgy of the word in the Eucharist. It is designed for simplicity and minimal preparation. While it is intended for use on Sundays, it may also be used at any weekly gathering of the community of faith. It is particularly suitable for a small congregation meeting in someone’s home or some other non-traditional worship setting.

When two or more people are present, the parts of the service in brackets [ ] are used. Different people may be assigned different parts to read. Prayers and other parts of the service printed in bold are said or sung by all, depending upon the nature of the part.

All music comes from the Anglican Church of Canada’s hymnal, Common Praise (1998), or its supplement, Sing A New Creation (2022).

The topic of this Sunday’s message is temptation.

Readings: Deuteronomy 26:1-11; Romans 10:8-13; and Luke 4:1-13

Message: Temptation

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2025/03/sundays-at-all-hallows-sunday-march-9.html

Please feel free to share this link with anyone who may be interested.

If you are new to Sundays at All Hallows, you may find these directions helpful:

-It is recommended that after reading or hearing each lesson to take time to reflect on what you read or heard during the period of silence which follows each lesson. It is also recommended that you do the same thing after reading or hearing the message.

-When you open the link to a video in a new tab, check auto-play to make sure it is in the off position. Otherwise, a second video with a different song will follow the first.

-If an ad plays when you open a link to a video in a new tab, click the refresh icon of your browser until the song appears.

-If a song begins partway through the video, click pause, move the slider to the beginning, and then click play.

-An ad may follow a song so as soon as the song is finished, close the tab.

May Sundays at All Hallows be a blessing to you.

Saturday Lagnniappe: 'The real Gen Z religion story is about women' And More

The real Gen Z religion story is about women
On most indicators, Gen Z men’s religious behavior has largely stayed the same in the past decade. Instead, it is Gen Z women who have moved religiously.

Finding female voices in the Scriptures
On 8 March we mark International Women’s Day. It is not well known that there are parts of the Bible from a female perspective, and that some parts were composed by women. This is the story....

Related: Who was Huldah in the Bible and why is she important? and Lessons from great women of faith

Why it can be so hard to be a woman in the world’s poorest communities
Peter Waddup looks at the challenges that faced by women living in the world's poorest communities.

As White House considers abandoning foreign aid, faith groups say they can’t do it alone
A discussion centered on whether the federal government should be dispensing foreign aid, which government officials referred to as ‘philanthropy.’

Zomi Christians are the face of a refugee crisis we can't ignore
Simultaneous cuts in humanitarian aid and refugee programs promise a disaster that will betray America’s values and our promises to persecuted people around the world.

Church Welcomes 100 New Members Within Two Years
What’s happening at Abingdon United Methodist Church? In the last two years, the congregation has welcomed about 100 people into membership.

Related: 5 Tips from the Pastor of a Growing Church

Los Angeles-area church’s ministry brings new dresses to girls, renewed energy to congregation
Members of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Pomona, California, launched a ministry to help dress young girls around the world and revitalized community in their own backyard. On a recent Saturday, about a dozen women and men in the church’s Sophia room were busily laying out patterns, cutting, stitching and ironing vibrant animal print and flowered materials to make sleeveless dresses to send to Dress A Girl Around the World.

This Mistake by Churches Can Prove Costly for Ministers and Employees During Tax Season
Absent an accountable reimbursement arrangement, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) views any reimbursed business expenses paid by an employer to an employee as nonaccountable. And this creates taxable income for the employee.

10 Core Principles of Moral Theology Every Christian Should Understand
Moral Theology shapes how Christians live out their faith in everyday life. It provides a framework for making ethical decisions rooted in Scripture, tradition, and reason. Whether you’re deepening your faith or seeking clarity on moral issues, understanding these core principles will strengthen your spiritual journey.

Textual Criticism in Preaching Variant Texts in the Bible
In the realm of the theological sciences, no subject is as difficult to navigate as that of Old and New Testament textual criticism. Especially textual criticism in preaching. Textual criticism involves a vast amount of linguistic consideration, transmission theory, historiographical data, philosophical reasoning, archeological discovery, and intertextual comparison. The number of factors at play makes textual criticism a specialist rather than a generalist science.

“That's Just Your Interpretation”
This is a common response when discussing Scripture, isn’t it? “That’s just your interpretation!” No matter how clearly the Bible speaks, this objection seems to persist. But is it true? Can we really understand the Bible? This question takes us to the heart of the Christian faith and invites us into a discussion about the clarity and authority of God's Word.

The Class Divide Over Screen Time
O. Alan Noble explain how techology is creating a new class divide and it is not what we may think.

Spiritual Disciplines: Practices That Deepen Your Faith and Strengthen Your Walk with God
Growing in faith requires intentionality. Just as physical exercise strengthens the body, spiritual disciplines strengthen the soul. These time-tested practices help believers draw closer to God, cultivate a deeper relationship with Him, and align their lives with His will. Whether you’re new to faith or have been walking with God for years, engaging in spiritual disciplines can transform your spiritual journey.

Discipleship on Purpose
Jesus Christ gave his followers a commission that we all share: to make disciples, baptize them and teach them to obey all he commanded. We can organize this many different ways, but the strategy he laid out must include sharing the good news with nonbelievers, challenging them to fully embrace the identity of being a Christ follower, and then teaching them to obey as we walk with them in following Jesus.

Friday's Catch: 'Turns out, we have partisan brains — but there’s hope' And More

Turns out, we have partisan brains — but there’s hope
It’s no secret politics divides America. The growing hostility between Republicans who support Donald Trump and the Democrats who oppose him is fracturing friendships, families and churches. Each side wonders at the rationale of the other: “How can they possibly think that way?” It turns out Republicans and Democrats do, in fact, think differently. When scientists in the emerging field of neuropolitics compared the brain scans of Republicans with those of Democrats, they found physical variations as well as differences in brain activity.

SBC pastors want another push to ban female clergy after Law Amendment failed
A group of Southern Baptist Convention clergy are urging the denomination to reconsider an amendment that would permanently prohibit female pastors at member churches after it fell 5 percentage points shy of the two-thirds support needed to pass last year.

Related: Why are Southern Baptists still arguing about women preachers? and Alaska Baptist leader resigns after supporting autonomy of his church

Struggling with What to Write in the Church Newsletter?
Struggling with what to write for the church newsletter? Jessica Anschutz of the Lewis Center shares ways to write meaningful and relevant material for your church newsletter by aligning articles with your church’s mission, connecting ministries, breaking silos, elaborating on worship themes, and rotating focus areas. These insights will help engage readers with purpose-driven, faith-building messages.

What Do People Want Most From Their Leader? Hope
Gallup identified four key expectations followers have of their leaders. They need leaders to provide hope, trust, compassion, and stability.

More Than Red Letters: Jesus’s Teaching Across the New Testament
While some people drive a wedge between Jesus and the rest of the New Testament, a far better approach is to train ourselves to recognize Jesus’s voice in the whole New Testament. We should expect the apostles to frequently look back to Jesus’s teaching. And when we read their letters, we find his teaching popping up in all sorts of ways.

The Sacramental Nature of Shared Meals
Why do human beings always celebrate with a meal? What is it about food that makes consuming it together the most appropriate way to commemorate an occasion? Think about it. We celebrate everything with a meal. Birthdays, funerals, graduations, anniversaries, engagements, promotions, holidays—all excuses to gather and eat and drink.

US Measles Cases Jump 35% in a Week, Now Found in a Dozen States
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 58 new US measles cases on Friday, a worrying sign in the outbreak that’s already been linked to two deaths.The US now has 222 cases across 12 states since the beginning of the year, the CDC reported, and 38, or 17% of those confirmed cases, have led to hospitalization.

Related Second person dies after contracting measles in US outbreak, As airports signal red alert over measles outbreaks, how to stay safe, Canada reports increase in measles cases, urges vaccination, and Measles Outbreak Spreads to Florida

Are Smart Phones Killing Student Ministries in Churches?
Since 2010, depression among teens is up 145% in girls and 161% in boys. During the same time period, anxiety is up 139% in those between the ages of 18 and 25. Josh and Sam discuss the findings from the book The Anxious Generation. Much of the problem stems from the widespread adoption of smartphones. What is the impact on student ministries in churches?

Bring a Friend: 5 Ways To Create an Inviting Preteen Ministry
Do your preteens bring a friend to church often? Does your preteen ministry have a culture of invitation? Read on for five ways to create an inviting ministry for middle schoolers, aka tweens.

Why do some Christians fast during Lent?
During Lent many Christians use the time to fast something. This is the story....

Related: 40 Day Fasting Guide for New Believers: Spiritual Growth and Practical Tips

The 15 P’s of Discipleship: How to Help Others Grow in Christ
Jesus told his disciples: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you…” (Matt. 28:19–20). His words are clear. Jesus commands his followers to make and train disciples. We are to reach people with his gospel and teach them what it means to follow Jesus faithfully.