Friday's Catch: '“The Gift of Small” featuring Allen Stanton' And More

“The Gift of Small” featuring Allen Stanton
Do you lead a small church? In this episode Allen Stanton shares how small congregations can be surprisingly nimble in the face of change and effective in spiritual formation because of their inherently relational nature.

Multiplying Made Simple: Filipino Movement Reaches Out Through Microchurches
If you were to hear the following, would you imagine it would be at (a) a church leadership meeting or (b) with the congregation itself?

Dane Boston to Lead Largest Episcopal Parish
The Very Rev. Dane Boston, the current dean of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Columbia, South Carolina, loves to sing. “I have been singing my whole life,” he told TLC. He sang in church and was part of the children’s choir at North Dunedin Baptist Church in Dunedin, Florida, where he worshipped with his family as a young boy. He deeply appreciates the great hymns of the church and singers like Paul Simon....

Family of Texas Pastor Who Was Detained by ICE Clings to Hope in God
The family of a volunteer pastor in Corpus Christi, Texas, said they’re hoping for a miracle after he was suddenly detained last month. On March 18, as Adolfo Gutierrez was taking his youngest daughter to school, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents apprehended the undocumented immigrant and drove him away in a van.

States and cities are losing billions in federal childhood vaccine funds
States and cities are losing over $2 billion in childhood immunization and vaccination funding as part of broader cancellations of pandemic-era federal public health spending, per government data..

Related: Which jobs were cut at CDC? Here’s a list., HHS gutted programs to help people quit smoking. The impact could be deadly., 'Decapitated': More top vaccine regulators out at FDA, threatening new approvals, FDA employee found out she'd been laid off by email at 5 a.m.: 'I don't see how this benefits Americans at all', and HHS cuts stall Helene recovery efforts in North Carolina mountains

Faith communities are setting a courageous example for standing up to Trump
A growing number of religious communities are responding to the administration's hostility to many of their core values and beliefs, despite having fewer resources than major firms or schools.

A call for the church to reclaim biblical leadership
Have evangelicals — in the United States, the Caribbean and beyond — shifted from valuing biblical leadership rooted in character to embracing a results-driven model more akin to corporate success than Christ’s kingdom?

The International Lutheran Council expels two national Lutheran churches over women's ordination
The International Lutheran Council (ILC) has removed the Lutheran Church of Australia and New Zealand (LCANZ) and the Japan Lutheran Church (JLC) from observer membership in the ILC. Both were removed for departing from the doctrinal positions required of all members in the ILC’s bylaws.

4 Causes of Division in the Church
The New Testament gives us several causes of division among God’s people. It’s crucial to recognize these distinctions so we can be clear in our assessments and charitable in our judgments. Here are four ways division shows up—and the dangers that arise when we fail to tell them apart.

Union with Christians
Our union with Christ ought also to govern how we view Christians throughout the world that we may never see face to face in this life.

Three Levels of Sermon Introduction
Though every sermon necessarily needs a beginning, it does not necessarily need a formal introduction. Though it has to begin somewhere, there is no rule that it must begin with some kind of story or illustration. A preacher can jump straight into his text if he so desires. Some do.

Practical Considerations for Preaching Delivery
Preaching is a subjective craft—culture, context, personality, experience and preference shape our opinions. It also inevitably touches on questions of theology, ecclesiology and ministry practice: core values we hold about church and spirituality. Opinions about educational theory also play a large part in discussions about preaching. With that in mind, this article will not be a definitive guide but a conversation starter. It will raise questions, and make a range of practical suggestions in two areas of preaching delivery: gestures and variations in speech.

Prayer or Sleep? Which is More Important?
Here are some thoughts that might help you decide whether to choose prayer or sleep.

Thursday Evenings at All Hallows (Thursday, April 3, 2025) Is Now Online

Welcome to Thursday Evenings at All Hallows.

Since the invention of the telegraph in the nineteenth century, there has been a revolution in electronic communication, particularly in the last 50 odd years. This technological revolution has had a significant effect upon the church as well as larger society.

In this evening’s message we examine the Letter to the Hebrew’ teaching about meetings and its implications for today.

Reading: Hebrews 10: 19-25

Message: What Does The Letter to the Hebrews Teach about Meetings?

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2025/04/thursday-evenings-at-all-hallows.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: 'The Worrying but Still Hopeful Demographic Future of U.S. Christianity' And More

The Worrying but Still Hopeful Demographic Future of U.S. Christianity

Does the current research indicate a reversal in the decline of Christianity in the U.S. or a mere pause? That is yet to be determined.

Sociologist's new book explains why organized religion has lost relevancy
Christian Smith’s research shows traditional religion isn’t just declining. It’s culturally obsolete.

Replanting a Historic Minneapolis Megachurch
The need for revitalization is widespread. Some sources suggest more than half of U.S. churches are in some stage of decline.

A bishop of the Arctic says goodbye
As Canada’s Anglican church dwindles, its most remote (and most expansive) diocese has shown growth. One bishop responsible for that trend is retiring, leaving his successor to find clergy willing to take on the Arctic’s challenges.

Should Churches Share Their Campuses with Other Non-Profits?
Many church buildings sit empty for a good portion of the week. What are the pros and cons of sharing the campus with other non-profits? Josh and Sam discuss some items to consider before opening your doors to other groups, churches, and ministries.

EfM Plans New Multimedia Curriculum
This week, thousands of laypeople across the country—as well as in parts of Europe, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and Hong Kong—will come together for at least two hours to study theology. They will meet in person or online in small groups of no more than 12, with one or two mentors facilitating discussions on various topics, from Hebrew and Christian Scripture to ethics and spirituality.

Related: Education for Ministry releases curriculum addition, new course options ahead of 50th anniversary

Why Hospitality in the New Testament Doesn’t Mean What You Think It Does
...one of the central features of the early Christian movement was that they were a people who traveled, and traveled extensively.

Preaching and Teaching With the Lost in View
Here are three things to consider as we preach or teach with nonbelievers in view.

Wednesday' Catch: 'The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of American Protestantism the Past 25 Years' And More

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of American Protestantism the Past 25 Years, Part 1: Key Strengths of American Protestantism in the 21st Century
In an unusual departure from the style of this podcast, Thom and Jess look at American Protestantism in the 21st century, highlighting 10 amazing contributions and 10 abject failures. For number 21, the Rainers give American Christianity a “grade” they believe is objective based on the past 25 years. They will take four podcasts to take you on this journey

Related: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of American Protestantism the Past 25 Years, Part 2: Abject Failures of American Protestantism in the 21st Century

Ten Non-Negotiable Rules for Child Safety in Churches
Child security is crucial in church ministries to ensure a safe environment for children to grow spiritually. Sam Rainer identifies ten key measures help protect children from potential harm including: avoiding one-on-one adult-child situations, conducting annual background checks, establishing check-in procedures, supervising bathrooms, and providing ongoing volunteer training.

Millions of Christians could face deportation from the US, report says: 'vast majority of individuals at risk of deportation are Christians'
A new report by several Christian organizations warns that up to 10 million Christians could face deportation under proposed Trump administration policies—raising concerns for families and churches across the U.S.—though the authors say their goal is not to take a political stance but to highlight the potential impact on the American church. 

Trump’s cruel calculus on public health is slashing lifelines for the most vulnerable
While the White House justifies its clawback of $11.4 billion in public health funds by declaring the pandemic “over,” the truth — buried beneath rhetoric — is that this money was never solely about COVID. These funds were the only significant investments in behavioral health infrastructure in a generation, targeting deeply underfunded mental health and substance use services long before and long after the virus.

Related: States sue Trump administration for rescinding billions in health funding

Kennedy Axes 10,000 Health Workers and Makes America Unhealthy Again
...HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s move Tuesday to fire 10,000 HHS workers, or one-quarter of the agency’s staff, without warning or cause shatters that vision and makes American communities less safe. It comes a week after the Trump administration cut $12 billion in federal grants to state and local health departments to track communicable diseases and to treat mental health, addiction and other urgent health problems.

NewSpring Church Voluntarily Leaves SBC Amid Controversy Over Female Pastors
NewSpring Church, a megachurch with multiple locations in South Carolina, has voluntarily withdrawn from the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) despite the fact that the denomination’s Credential Committee reaffirmed its cooperation with the church following an inquiry. The inquiry into whether NewSpring should still be considered to be “in friendly cooperation” with the SBC was launched last year after concerns were raised about the fact that a woman serves as a teacher pastor for NewSpring.

America the secular? What a changing religious landscape means for US politics
A common assumption holds that nonreligious Americans vote for liberal candidates. The reality isn’t so simple.

Here’s who’s behind the war on empathy
Alan Bean offers an analysis of the antipathy toward empathy in segments of the US population, what these population segments have in common, and how they differ from each other.

The late cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead was once asked by a student what she considered to be the first sign of civilization in a culture. The student expected Mead to talk about fishhooks or clay pots or grinding stones. But no. Mead said that the first sign of civilization in an ancient culture was a femur (thighbone) that had been broken and then healed. Mead explained that in the animal kingdom, if you break your leg, you die. You cannot run from danger, get to the river for a drink or hunt for food. You are meat for prowling beasts. No animal survives a broken leg long enough for the bone to heal. A broken femur that has healed is evidence that someone has taken time to stay with the one who fell, has bound up the wound, has carried the person to safety and has tended the person through recovery. Helping someone else through difficulty is where civilization starts, Mead said. "We are at our best when we serve others. Be civilized.”

Which Identity is More Important: Race, Gender, or Religion? Or are we just trying to put smoke in a box? 

There’s this inherent tension in doing survey research. We are trying to get people to explain their thinking about things. I don’t know if that’s always possible. As many of you know, I worked on a book project called The Great Dechurching with two pastors - Michael Graham and Jim Davis. We asked folks a whole bunch of questions about why they stopped attending religious services and why they might come back. In writing that book we would always come back to the possibility that people themselves don’t fully understand why they do the things that they do. They contradict themselves. They contain multitudes.

7 Life-Changing Jesus Leadership Lessons for Pastors
Jesus was the ultimate leader, demonstrating wisdom, humility, and unwavering commitment to His mission. His leadership principles remain timeless and serve as a model for pastors seeking to shepherd their congregations effectively. By studying His example, these Jesus leadership lessons for pastors can help grow in their calling and leadership. 

Random Thoughts on Preaching
In no particular order, here are some random thoughts on preaching.

12 Essential Worship Team Guidelines
A strong worship team is more than just a group of musicians and vocalists—it is a unified body that leads congregations into meaningful encounters with God. Developing a worship team that is both spiritually grounded and musically excellent requires intentionality and dedication. Here are 12 essential worship team guidelines for building a worship team that is effective, cohesive, and spiritually strong.

Spring Training in Student Ministry: The Critical Role of Parent Discipleship and how to Strengthen It
If we’re serious about making disciples, we need to get serious about parent discipleship. Here are some practical ways to make it a reality.

14 Essential Traits of a Successful Evangelist 

Evangelism is a powerful calling that requires passion, dedication, and a deep commitment to sharing the gospel. Those who are most effective in this role possess specific qualities that allow them to connect with people, communicate God’s truth, and inspire transformation. What are the essential traits of a successful evangelist that contribute to their effectiveness in ministry?

Tuesday's Catch: 'Don’t Invite Your Friends to the Eucharist' And More

Don’t Invite Your Friends to the Eucharist: The Church We Are Becoming
The Rt. Rev. Daniel Martins, retired Bishop of the Diocese of Springfield in the Episcopal Church, shares his thoughts on what he describes as "the tsunami of 'post-Christendom'" and how the church should respond to what he hazards may turn out to be more significant than the 16th century Reformation.

The Burge Report: Everyone Is Having Less Sex (What It Means for the Church)
Ryan Burge discusses his most-read research post of the year. Every age group is having less sex than they were a generation ago. Not only has sexual behavior declined among young people, but it has also declined among Evangelicals and other religious groups. What are the implications for the church? How should pastors address this reality, if at all?

Related: How Does the Public Feel About Sex Among Teenagers? And what role does religion play in shaping these views?

Are There Two Types of Gen Z When It Comes to Religion?
Every now and then someone has a somewhat original thought on Twitter. That was certainly the case a couple of weeks ago when Rachel Janfaza, who writes a newsletter called The Up and Up, posted a picture of ‘two Gen Z’s.’

Most Immigrants Who Are Vulnerable to Trump’s Mass Deportation Policies Are Christians: Report
A new report has revealed that the majority of those affected by President Donald Trump’s plan for mass deportation are Christians.

Related: Evangelical, Catholic groups: 1 in 12 Christians could be impacted by Trump deportations

Christians believe human fallibility too great to allow unchecked power for our leaders
If the political realm will not stand up to the autocratic pretensions of the current president, it falls to people of faith to take nonviolent action.

Rebuilding for Renewal: The Importance of Sacred Spaces in Our Cities
A church without a building can still thrive, but having a place to call our own has deepened our ability to live out our calling.

In his conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well of Jacob, Jesus made it clear that to God it does not matter where we worship. What matters most to God in how genuinely we worship him.

The Story and Message of the Bible
The Bible is comprised of many books and written by various authors over centuries, but as God’s Word it is a unified revelation unveiling a single message. It is crucial to understand what the Bible’s overall message is to interpret it properly and rightly apply it to our lives

3 Preaching Alternatives to PowerPoint

PowerPoint has long been a staple of modern preaching, helping pastors and speakers organize their thoughts with visual support. However, many preachers find themselves looking for alternatives to PowerPoint that foster deeper engagement, minimize technical issues, and create a more dynamic worship experience. Whether you want to simplify your presentation or make your sermons more interactive, exploring different tools and techniques can greatly enhance your message.

New Attention for Old Hymn Texts
The Rev. Ted Campbell has edited and published “A Core Methodist Hymnal, which collects the texts of 126 hymns in the public domain. Campbell is a longtime professor at United Methodist seminaries and an authority on the great hymn writer Charles Wesley. The book is intended as a devotional or study book for individuals and small groups and includes commentaries by Campbell after each hymn text.

Basic Small Group Dynamics Every Leader Needs to Know
Small groups are powerful tools for building relationships, fostering spiritual growth, and achieving shared goals. However, leading a small group effectively requires an understanding of small group dynamics. By recognizing how groups develop, interact, and function, leaders can create an environment makes discipleship bloom.

Monday's Catch: 'Most American Christians don't believe in the Trinity: Survey' And More

Most American Christians don't believe in the Trinity: Survey
An overwhelming majority of Christians reject the basic Christian teaching of the Trinity, prompting new concerns that Americans are living without the influence of “the truths and life principles of God.”

DOGE’s Latest Chaotic Move May Make It Harder To Receive Your Social Security Benefits
Millions of Americans rely on Social Security benefits to make ends meet, which is why any change to the program can be alarming.

Related: ‘Exactly backwards’: Trump’s order wiped this Social Security department for being ‘wasteful’— but it was working on making it easier to access services; More than 5,000 Oregonians will no longer get paper Social Security checks

Trump makes sweeping HIV research and grant cuts: ‘setting us back decades’
The federal government has cancelled dozens of grants to study how to prevent new HIV infections and expand access to care, decimating progress toward eliminating the epidemic in the United States, scientists say. 

The HIV epidemic is not confined to the LGBTQ segment of the US population as some Americans still mistakenly believe. Since the early 1980s HIV has been found in the larger population, including newborn babies who were infected in utero. Nor do adults and teenagers have to have multiple sexual partners to become infected. HIV does not require repeated sexual contact for transmission. One can become infected by chance exposure to an infected person's blood or body fluids.

VOICES: Christian nationalism: Why a Church and state merger is anti-American
Christian Nationalism is no longer just a leftist buzzword used to discredit conservatives. While progressives have long wielded the term dishonestly as a smear against anyone to the right of Bernie Sanders, its definition has shifted. Today, it is being co-opted to describe an actual authoritarian movement seeking to upend the constitutional order and merge Church and state into a new sacralist regime.

Authoritarian rule is ‘common denominator’ in religious persecution, USCIRF says
Authoritarian rule is the “common denominator” in the worsening of religious persecution around the world, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom said in its 2025 annual report. Last year, totalitarian regimes widened the direct oppression of minority faiths in their countries, while others chose to look the other way when mobs or other third-party actors conducted violent attacks against unwelcomed religious groups, USCIRF said in the newly released study.

The medieval origins of Mothering Sunday
This past Sunday, the Fourth Sunday in Lent, was Mothering Sunday in the Church of England, the Church of Ireland, and other Anglican provinces. Martyn Whittock explains its origins.

Is All High Christology Necessarily Orthodox? The Gospel of Peter as a Test Case
One of the classic, and seemingly never-ending, debates among New Testament scholars is whether Jesus’s earliest followers viewed him as fully divine, and (perhaps more importantly), whether Jesus viewed himself as fully divine. Some scholars say yes to both, some say no to both, and some are mixed.

How Many Hours Must a Pastor Work to Satisfy the Congregation?
How many hours must a pastor work each week to satisfy the congregation? This question, often unspoken, hovers over many churches and their leaders. A simple experiment I conducted several years ago might shed some light on this complex issue.

13 Pastoral Ethics That Every Church Leader Must Uphold
Pastors and church leaders hold a position of great responsibility, serving as spiritual guides and moral examples to their congregations. Upholding strong pastoral ethics and integrity is essential for maintaining trust, leading effectively, and fulfilling God’s calling. A commitment to pastoral ethics ensures that church leaders reflect Christ’s character in every aspect of their ministry.

8 Ways to Lead Worship That Engages the Congregation
Leading worship is more than just singing songs; it’s about creating an atmosphere where people can encounter God in a meaningful way. A worship leader’s role is to guide the congregation into a deeper experience of faith, unity, and spiritual connection. Whether you’re leading a small group or a large church gathering, engaging the congregation should always be a priority. Here are eight pointers on how to lead worship effectively – ways to lead worship that foster participation and transformation.

Glenn Packiam: Need a Song Idea for Good Friday or Easter?
Do you need a song idea for Good Friday and Easter. Check these out....

2 Tech Changes That Can Increase Giving
Research shows these two tech tools may contribute to increased giving in your congregation: online giving and hybrid services.

How to Train Your Church Members for Effective Evangelism
Evangelism is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, fulfilling the Great Commission given by Jesus Himself. However, many church members feel unprepared or hesitant to share their faith. To bridge this gap, local congregations should implement a structured and intentional church evangelism training program. With the right preparation, encouragement, and resources, every believer can confidently and effectively share the gospel.

Sundays at All Hallows (Sunday, March 30, 2025) Is Now Online

Welcome to Sundays at All Hallows.

This Sunday is the Fourth Sunday in Lent. It is also known as Laetare Sunday, Mid-Lent Sunday, Refreshment Sunday, and Rose Sunday. Laetare is the Latin word for "rejoice."

In the Church of England, the Church of Ireland, and some other Anglican churches this Sunday is known as Mothering Sunday. This Sunday was so named from the practice of “mothering,” the practice of returning to one’s local mother church for a service held on this particular Sunday. This practice originated in medieval times. One's mother church might be the church where one was baptized, the local parish church, or the nearest cathedral, which may be regarded as the mother church of all the parish churches in a diocese. In modern times Mothering Sunday has become an occasion on which mothers and motherhood is honored like Mother’s Day in the United States and in some places on which the Earth as our mother is celebrated.

Among the traditions associated with Mothering Sunday is the eating of Simnel Cake, a fruit cake, layered and topped with marzipan, and Mothering Buns, iced yeast-raised sweet buns, covered with Hundreds and Thousands sprinkles. Children present their mothers with bouquets of violets.

In some churches that use liturgical colors it is customary to change the color of the day from purple or Lenten array, sackcloth or burlap with black ad oxblood orphreys, to rose or pink.

The topic of this Sunday’s message is God’s amazing grace.

Readings: Joshua 5: 9-12; 2 Corinthians 5: 16-21; and Luke 15: 1-3, 11b-32

Message: God’s Amazing Grace

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2025/03/sundays-at-all-hallows-sunday-march-30.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: 'The Church of England is one step closer to appointing first female Archbishop of Canterbury' And More

The Church of England is one step closer to appointing first female Archbishop of Canterbury
The Church of England is one step closer to appointing its first female Archbishop of Canterbury now that the Bishop of Norwich, Graham Usher, has ruled himself out. As a member of the Crown Nominations Commission (CNC) for the See of Canterbury, which is due to have its first meeting in May, Bishop Usher is ineligible for the post. After an election by the House of Bishops, he joins the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, as the second episcopal member of the Canterbury CNC.

5 Years After COVID, How Have Churches Changed?
A consequence of closing United Methodist churches in 2020, to protect people from life-threatening COVID-19, was permanent loss of worshipers for many congregations. Despite the losses, some church leaders say the pandemic led them to develop new ways to reach their flocks and to reevaluate how they do ministry.

I have not yet run across any articles describing how Episcopal and Anglican churches in the United States and Canada have changed since COVID. In my own community some churches suspended public services of worship and other gatherings for a time; others did not, reflecting the division of opinion related to the seriousness of the virus evident in the community. People were hospitalized and people died. But the hospitalizations and deaths only changed a few people's minds. That division continues to this day.

Our Present Church Decline: Diagnosing and Prescribing
No one reading this article would question the fact that the church in the West is in decline and has been declining for a long time. Not only is it losing members, but the church’s influence on its culture has declined. For instance, during the middle of the 20th century, one could find Christian leaders, like Reinhold Niebuhr, giving considered opinions on national and world matters. writing articles for popular magazines and newspapers. How seriously are Christian leaders taken in today’s world?

According to Thom Rainer at Church Answers, only about 6% of US churches engage in evangelism. What church growth occurs is largely demographic growth--churchgoers moving to a community, and transfer growth--churchgoers living in the community switching churches. A shrinking churchgoing population limits these kinds of growth.

If You Bring a Problem Bring a Solution as Well
Church leaders are always dealing with problems, because problems abound. But Jim Ozier says the simple practice of insisting that anyone who points out a problem must also have a solution in mind can shift the dynamic from negativity to positive thinking.

Control or Generosity? Letting Go for the Sake of Church Growth
One of the tensions that a church leader must confront is the pull between generosity and control. We want the church to grow, thrive, and fulfill its mission, but too often, our desire for everything to be done right may lead us to hold on too tightly. We become gatekeepers instead of guides, and managers instead of ministers. And while control may offer the illusion of stability, both spiritual and numerical growth only happen when we learn to release our grip and trust in the abundance of God. Nobody (meaning me) said it is easy to do.

Why Are There Four Gospels?
Some people have wondered why we have four accounts of Jesus – Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Others have been bothered that these accounts are so close (especially Matthew, Mark, and Luke), and yet there are important differences. Why four accounts and not just one?

What We Glean from 4 Ways of Celebrating the Lord’s Supper
One benefit of preaching in various churches across the continent and in other parts of the world is getting a glimpse of how different congregations worship and follow the Lord’s commands. Case in point? The variety of ways in which the Lord’s people celebrate the Lord’s Supper.

Student Ministry Leaders and Parents Share Goals, Desire to Work Together
Student ministry leaders and parents emphasize the spiritual health of their students and want to work together to see them become disciples of Christ.

Four Reasons Your Church Might Fire Jesus
That’s right. I’m convinced that Jesus would be fired after a few months if He were hired on staff at a typical church today.

8 Easy Ways To Be Missional
Missional is not an event we tack onto our already busy lives. It is our life. Mission should be the way we live, not something we add onto life: “As you go, make disciples;” “Walk wisely toward outsiders;” “Let your speech always be seasoned with salt;” “Be prepared to give a defense for your hope.” There are easy ways to be missional everyday without overloading our schedules.

Friday's Catch: 'US study claims two in five Brits raised Christian no longer believe' And More

US study claims two in five Brits raised Christian no longer believe
A new report from the Washington-based Pew Research Center suggests that Britain’s religious identity is undergoing a transformation, with two in five people brought up as Christians no longer identifying with the faith. However, while traditional church attendance is in decline, Christianity continues to evolve, finding new expressions and communities in modern Britain.

Parishes struggle with money woes, uncertainty
Many parishes in the Anglican Church of Canada are finding themselves torn between their own desire to survive and their obligation to support the higher structures of the church, says Ed Willms, a parishioner at All Saints Anglican Church in Huntsville, Ont....

Pittsburgh church service, other remembrances mark five years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic
At Calvary Episcopal Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the 11 a.m. Eastern service on March 16 was a special observance of the fifth anniversary of the church’s shutdown during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. It included readings that dealt with illness and loss, prayers for healthcare workers and those who died, and music that often is used at funerals, including “O God our Help in Ages Past.”

Why More Churches Are Stepping Into Education
As cultural challenges and questions regarding education abound, churches are rediscovering discipleship doesn’t stop at the church door.

How To Love One Another in the Church When the Culture Seeks To Divide Us
Is the way of life in this world and the culture around us causing division in the church? The answer is, sadly, yes. We see it happening today in the areas of politics, race, and ideologies. These cultural forces are infiltrating local church bodies and reshaping how we live with one another. The truth is that secular culture has seduced the Christian community in ways that are now tearing us apart socially, relationally, and theologically.

Three Reasons Why Conflict is Harmful to the Church
As sinners within the church, we sin, and our sin is sometimes directed toward other people (knowingly or unknowingly), creating conflict. Since we cannot avoid church conflict, we need to know how to handle it biblically in order to resolve it in a way that honors Christ and preserves the unity of His body.

The One Gift Every Pastor Must Have
Those whom God has truly called; he has truly gifted for the task. Every pastor must be gifted to teach the Word; and every qualified pastor is.

How to Preach in 20 Challenging Steps
"Like a fool, I’ve entered where angels fear to tread, attempting to give instructions on how to preach. Foolhardy or not, I think one has to start somewhere, and perhaps this list of steps might help some aspiring preacher along the way."

Related: 3 Ways to Write a GREAT Sermon (This Week!); Preach for ACTION: How to boost your Sermon Application; and Avoid These Expository Imposters

Digital Parish: Elevating Your Church's Digital Strategy
In this session with Collin Johansson we’ll learn why live video should be a cornerstone of your digital ministry and how you can craft social media content that not only connects but resonates deeply with your congregation. From creating engaging sermon clips to scheduling posts for optimal impact, we dive deep into strategies that will help retain newcomers, especially around high-traffic times like Easter.

What’s Often Missed with Student Ministry Safety in Churches
Student ministry is often where rules about minors break down in the church. Student ministries don’t need fewer rules than children’s ministries, but they need different rules. Though rebellion seems to be a rite of passage for many teenagers, they are far more receptive to guidance than you might think. Josh and Sam discuss what’s often missed in churches.

Today, vaccine hesitancy is growing and celebrated
In the five years since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Republicans and Christians have seen a complete shift in their perspective on vaccines that is changing federal policy and affecting global charity efforts — potentially sparking a measles epidemic in the process.

Nursery Bible Songs Teach Babies and Toddlers About God’s Love
Nursery Bible songs are incredibly effective for teaching young children about Jesus and his love for them. Babies and toddlers learn through repetition, movement, and sensory experiences. So music and songs are perfect for introducing children to faith basics.

Thursday Evenings at All Hallows (Thursday, March 27, 2025) Is Now Online

Welcome to Thursday Evenings at All Hallows.

What sets a true disciple of Jesus apart from other people? In this evening’s message we take a look at what Jesus says in the Gospel of John about true discipleship.

Reading: John 8:31-47

Message: The True Disciple

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2025/03/thursday-evenings-at-all-hallows_27.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: 'Who are filling up the pews?' And More

Who are filling up the pews? Highly educated parents.
Ryan Burge takes a look at what is driving religious attendance in the United States.

Social Security Administration backtracks on some ID requirements after backlash
The Social Security Administration is partially backtracking on a plan that would require all new and existing beneficiaries to travel to a Social Security field office to verify their identity.

Related: Social Security service fallout reaches ND

Medicaid and SNAP Cuts Could Cost US 1 Million Jobs
A report has predicted that the proposed federal budget cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) could result in severe economic repercussions across the U.S., including the loss of millions of jobs.

I will be posting links to articles related to developments which may affect churches in the United States in future editions of Anglicans Ablaze. Changes to Social Security are going to affect churches with aging congregations, which form a large proportion of smaller churches in the United States. As more and more tariffs are implemented and the country begins to feel their effects, we can expect not only higher prices and shortages of various kinds but also more layoffs and business closures and increased unemployment. From what the economic experts say, we will not experience their full impact until later in the year. The tightening of visa requirements and the reduction in the issuance of green cards to applicants for permanent residency will have a negative impact upon short-term mission trips, campus ministries to international students, and clergy and seminary professors from other countries working in the United States.

Are we expecting too much of the church?
The church is not a sugar daddy whose purpose is to meet all our personal, social and vocational needs.

The Rise of Nietzschean Christianity
"...it may surprise you to learn that many today seem bent on combining the two approaches into a single life philosophy. Professing Christians—mainly online—are presenting a twisted version of Christianity that champions Nietzschean values in the name of Christ. Every week, I encounter online personalities using the name of Jesus in pursuit of Nietzschean ideals and goals."

The Weirdness of God’s Absolution Timetable
This essay is paired with another, appearing yesterday, on the traditional confession of sin.

What Pastors Should Wear While Preaching (Proper Church Dress Code)
In many Christian traditions, clergy still wear liturgical garments. As a low-church Baptist, I have limited knowledge about the use and symbolism of Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Eastern Orthodox, Methodist, and Episcopal vestments. However, in many of these churches, the expectations concerning clergy attire are clear. This article addresses the muddied perspectives of dress codes in evangelical churches.

There are different schools of clergy dress in the Anglican, Episcopal, and Methodist churches. What the clergy wears may differ from service to service. In a Methodist church, for instance, the pastor may dress casually in street clothes for a contemporary service and then don a black gown or a white alb and brightly colored stole for a traditional service. On special occasions the pastor may wear a suit and tie.

What Does Jesus Want Me to Do?
Whether you’re a ministry resident weighing the future or a mid-career professional thinking about seminary, the question “Am I called?” can be overwhelming. For many, it represents a major life change, like moving or switching careers. Calling is important, and we’re right to take it seriously. But sometimes we overthink it. Discerning God’s will may not be as complicated as you think.

Why Are Some Churches More Evangelistic Than Others?
Invite a friend to church. What could be so hard about that right? But we all know it’s more challenging than it appears. Culture has shifted, and while it is true that there is a resurgence of interest in God and spiritual life, it is also true that popular culture does not see a need for regular church attendance. The invitation, however, is extraordinary....

Wednesday's Catch: 'When the Paychecks Stop' And More

When the Paychecks Stop: Spiritual Care for the Unemployed
Most pastors and church leaders know exactly what to do when members face a health crisis or the loss of loved ones, but we’re often less equipped to address unemployment. In a culture where “What do you do?” is typically the first question we ask on meeting someone new, the loss of employment can feel like the loss of self. We need to do a better job of acknowledging that unemployment isn’t merely an economic hardship but a spiritual problem that often triggers a profound identity crisis.

What will your church do, if...
American churches must now confront the question: “What will our church do, if people in our congregation and community lose some or all of their Medicaid funding?” Or if teachers lose their jobs or their disabled students lose special education programs? Or if cuts in funding or staffing mean veterans no longer receive the medical care they were promised and so desperately need? Whatever may happen, the worst possible result is that churches with deep ties to their respective communities fail to prepare or refuse to develop strategies for responding to the loss of so many resources for people who may not be able to live without them. Many congregations already provide food banks, clothes closets, counseling centers or tutoring programs, but the rapid demise of government revenue adds new challenges for responding to immediate needs.

DOGE tightens up: big change with new requirement to retain Social Security benefits as of April
Starting in April, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will change how it handles overpayments made during distribution. Under the Biden administration, the SSA deducted 10 percent of the overpayment total from each monthly check until the error was corrected. However, beginning at the end of March, the agency will withhold 100 percent of the overpayment, meaning some beneficiaries could be left without a Social Security check, depending on how much they owe and receive each month.

Trump administration says it will pull back billions in COVID funding from local health departments
Lori Freeman, CEO of the National Association of County & City Health Officials, said much of the funding was set to end soon anyway. “It’s ending in the next six months,” she said. “There’s no reason — why rescind it now? It’s just cruel and unusual behavior.” In a related move, more than two dozen COVID-related research grants funded by the National Institutes of Health have been canceled. Earlier this month, the Trump administration shut down ordering from covidtest.gov, the site where Americans could have COVID-19 tests delivered to their mailboxes for no charge.

With the Dept. of Education on the chopping block, these are the states that rely most on federal school funding
Even though most education funding comes from state and local governments, schools would still feel a huge impact if they stopped receiving money from the federal government. Some states would be affected more than others. Federal education funds are distributed by several agencies. By far the largest share comes from the Education Department, specifically through programs designed to support poor children and kids with disabilities. So while big states like California receive the most total money, it’s actually some of the smallest, least wealthy states that get the most significant amount on a per-student basis.

VOICES: Rural communities are dying. The local church is their only solution
Trust in institutions is cratering everywhere, but at least in urban and suburban communities, those institutions still exist. The same cannot be said for rural America. In the last few decades, rural communities have lost over 200 hospitals. Over 2,100 local newspapers have shut down. We’ve lost countless high schools and even entire school districts. Once ubiquitous veterans clubs are dwindling....

The policies of the Trump administration are going to exacerbate the problems of rural communities in the United States. What negatively affects rural communities also negatively affects the churches in these communities.

If Jesus loves me, why is Donald Trump ruining everything?
I heard one of those televangelists preaching at me online the other day, declaring with equal sincerity that Jesus loves me and that Donald Trump is the savior we’ve all been waiting for. I’m having a hard time reconciling these messages.

These churches offer shelter and sanctuary to vulnerable migrants. Here's why
Under the Trump administration, churches are now thinking more expansively about the concept of sanctuary to include migrants who fear that new policies could suddenly make them vulnerable to arrest or deportation.

Should Christians be more critical of Israel?
Modern Christians, particularly those in the United States, often show unwavering support to Israel in its various conflicts. While there are perhaps good reasons for this at times, there might also be benefits to taking a step back and attempting a more objective view of the situation.

Related: As we weep for Palestine and Israel, we must look to limit vengeance

Six Reasons You Should Change the Name of Your Church
Yes, there are times when you should consider changing your church’s name. Jess and Thom review six of them.

Related: The 15 Most Common Names of Churches in the United States

A Theology of the General Confession
Lent is a penitential season, which the Church calls us to keep holy by, among other things, “self-examination and repentance.” It is therefore a fitting time for careful reflection on a familiar Anglican prayer of repentance, the General Confession.

5 Purposeful Practices to Foster Shared Leadership
Jimmy Arthur Atkins, senior pastor of the True Worship Christian Fellowship, says church leadership should not be a solo act. Drawing on the story of Moses and his father-in-law Jethro, he shares practices to encourage delegation and shared leadership.

Prayer Is Our Fuel In Ministry 

Robert Murray McCheyne, the great 19th century Scottish pastor, once said that a man is what he is on his knees before God and nothing more. This is true of every man, but in particular, how true this is of pastors.

Easter Songs for Children’s Church: 11 Ways To Celebrate Our Risen Lord
Easter songs for children’s church help proclaim the good news of Easter. This special holiday warrants lots of worship and praise. And kids can join in the celebration, whether in Sunday school, during children’s worship, or at home. Christian Easter songs help children understand Jesus’ resurrection and share the message with others.

If your church does not have separate worship for children, a practice of which I admittedly am not a fan, Easter songs with simple, repetitive, Bible-based lyrics and hand gestures and other movements can be integrated into the regular Sunday service during the Easter season, for instance as a part of a children's moment or at the offertory.

Tuesday's Catch: 'What the Church’s Future Can Look Like' And More

What the Church’s Future Can Look Like: The World Needs Us at Our Best
How can the church regain influence and achieve more impact? What can the church look like in a time of society-wide anxiety, self-serving ambition, and soul-sucking algorithms?

When Your Church Has Growing Pains
Jason Edwin Dees shares a few key principles which can be helpful in guiding people through the changes that come with church growth.

Church Income Rising, But Still Trails Inflation
Congregations are recovering from difficult financial years. But the increase in church income hasn’t kept up with inflation.

Seven Power Groups in Churches (The Good and the Bad)
Where people organize, power will be present. The church is no exception. Thom and Sam discuss seven common power groups in churches. Hint: They are not all bad. How can you manage power dynamics among congregants in a way that is helpful to the church and glorifying to God?

Funding Cuts Are Overloading Food Banks, Hurting US Farmers
President Donald Trump’s federal funding cuts are being felt from farms in the Heartland to food banks in Chicago. More than $1 billion in assistance that usually flows into the US Department of Agriculture for two programs that help local farmers, schools and food banks has already vanished. Now the administration is threatening to slash the agency’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, which provides low-income families with benefits to help supplement their grocery budgets. All of that is leaving farmers, a key voting bloc for Trump, without what was once a safe outlet for their produce. Food banks are also receiving less aid at a time when demand is surging — after all, consumers were already grappling with the rising cost of everything from meat to eggs.

Long waits, waves of calls, website crashes: Social Security is breaking down
The Social Security Administration website crashed four times in 10 days this month, blocking millions of retirees and disabled Americans from logging in to their online accounts because the servers were overloaded. In the field, office managers have resorted to answering phones at the front desk as receptionists because so many employees have been pushed out. But the agency no longer has a system to monitor customers’ experience with these services, because that office was eliminated as part of the cost-cutting efforts led by Elon Musk. And the phones keep ringing. And ringing.

Related: Dealing With Social Security Is Heading From Bad to Worse, Social Security rushing service cuts at White House request, sources say, Social Security Chief Says White House Ordered 'Rapid' Phone Service Cutbacks, and Senators press Trump Social Security nominee on his views about privatizing the agency

‘This is no longer just about Palestine; it’s about our collective humanity’
“This is no longer just about Palestine; it’s about our collective humanity,” a Palestinian Christian pastor told the World Methodist Council March 19.

Trump’s faith adviser selling seven Easter blessings for $1,000 gift
President Donald Trump’s chief faith adviser is selling seven “supernatural blessings” for Easter season gifts of $1,000 or more.

When New Year’s Day used to be on 25 March
When New Year’s Day used to be on 25 March25 March is known as Lady Day, also known as the Annunciation of the Lord, and it used to be the old New Year’s Day. This is the story....

Related: The Annunciation: Waiting in the Silence

Do Most Churches Really Need to Use Wireless Mics?
As technology continues to evolve, many churches are considering whether they need to invest in wireless mics for their services. While some see them as an essential tool for clear communication, others wonder if the cost and complexity are justified. Understanding the advantages and challenges of using wireless mics can help churches make an informed decision.

Cultural Influences on Church Small Groups
Church small groups have become a central feature of many congregations worldwide. These gatherings, which often focus on Bible study, fellowship, and discipleship, aim to create deeper relationships and spiritual growth among believers. However, their effectiveness can vary significantly depending on cultural context. Understanding how different cultures engage with church small groups can help churches tailor their approach for greater impact.

US Measles Map Shows Cases Spreading To New State
Tennessee has confirmed its first case of measles for this year amid the outbreak of the virus that has hit a number of states across the country. The Tennessee Department of Health said on Friday that a resident in Middle Tennessee tested positive after being infected in early March and is currently recovering at home.

4 Powerful Questions to Engage Your Small Group in Any Bible Passage
Helping your small group respond to God as you dig into the Bible together is largely a matter of asking the right questions. The most common mistake that group leaders make is to ask too many questions. If you ask too many questions, you don’t delve deeply into any of them and the same two or three people answer the questions again and again. By asking fewer, more strategic questions, you go deeper and involve more people in discussing and responding to God’s word.

Why You Should Know The Three Elements of Faith
The church has long held that saving faith has three necessary elements.

Monday's Catch: '10 Ways Churches Can Engage with Their Local Communities' And More

10 Ways Churches Can Engage with Their Local Communities
Churches play a vital role in their communities, offering salvation, guidance, support, and outreach to those in need. However, to remain relevant and effective, churches must actively engage with their local communities in meaningful ways. Church community engagement goes beyond Sunday services and can take many forms. Here are ten impactful ways churches can foster deeper relationships and serve their local communities.

Seattle cathedral helps nonprofit turn former classrooms into homeless shelter for women
St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral in Seattle, Washington, recently opened its doors to a shelter for homeless women. It is one of the latest of a growing number of Episcopal congregations partnering with local organizations and developers to address a nationwide shortage of affordable housing.

Related: Affordable senior housing complex opens at Los Angeles-area Episcopal church

Arctic diocese forms development corporation to offer housing, community spaces on church land
Moving forward with a plan nearly 40 years in the making, the diocese of the Arctic has announced the formation of a body tasked with redeveloping buildings on church-owned land into housing and multiuse community centres.

Most Americans reject claim that church is irrelevant: survey
A new survey has found wide generational differences in socialization patterns of churchgoers as most Americans reject the idea that the church has become irrelevant. The Barna Group released a State of the Church report in conjunction with Gloo on March 13. The data included in the report is based on interviews conducted with 1,532 adults in the U.S. between Feb. 4-26.

America stands at a moral crossroads, faith leaders warn
The nation is at a political and moral crossroads with the fate of its most vulnerable communities hanging in the balance, according to Vashti McKenzie, president and general secretary of the National Council of Churches. McKenzie participated in a recent vigil with other faith leaders urging Congress to enact policies that protect and nurture at-risk families and immigrants. Held on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol, the gathering also warned that policies and laws benefitting the rich at the expense of the poor will set the U.S. on a perilous, downward trajectory.

Little Rock UMC Hosts Packed, Emotional Town Hall
The sanctuary of First United Methodist Church in Little Rock, Ark., was standing-room-only for a town hall at which Arkansans spoke about the devastation caused by federal officials' policy decisions.

How are these policy decisions going to affect your community? What affects your community will affect your church.

My Kid’s in the Basement—Help!
To understand the modern reality of kids living in their parents’ basement, we must consider both their upbringing and external factors.

The Sons of Sceva and Gen Z’s Spiritual Anxiety
Christianity will only become compelling to a post-Christian culture when people realize that Jesus’s demand for exclusive worship comes coupled with Jesus’s demand to trust him for security amid life’s threats. This powerful Jesus melts away the spiritual anxiety that animates our religious pluralism.

The Religion of Wellness
For all the people who are spiritual but not religious, what’s replacing organized religion? Ironically, new forms of organized religion.

Am I Too Lonely? A Free Self-Scoring Tool for Pastors and Church Leaders
The problem among pastors (and others) is not feelings of loneliness, which we should expect to occur occasionally. The real issue is chronic loneliness, leading to social isolation. Frequent loneliness is linked to dissatisfaction with one’s family and community. In short, the longer you stay lonely, the more likely you are to be dissatisfied with life, pushing you further away from the people who can help you.

Three Pastoral Tasks More Important Than Preaching
Pastoral ministry is often associated with preaching, and rightly so. The proclamation of God’s Word is a central responsibility of any pastor. However, while preaching is essential, it is not the only or even the most important pastoral duty. There are crucial pastoral tasks that build relationships, provide care, and sustain a healthy church community. If a pastor focuses solely on the pulpit, they risk neglecting the very people they are called to shepherd.

Applying Scripture
Applying the Bible requires the skill and discipline to avoid incorrect as well as predictable applications.

Secrets of Building a Great Set List
Creating a meaningful and impactful set list for a Sunday morning service is both an art and a spiritual responsibility. A well-crafted set list flows seamlessly, engages the congregation, and leads people into a deeper encounter with God. Thoughtful song selection and intentional structuring help create a worship experience that is both powerful and cohesive.

AI and the visual interpretation of Scripture: A new era of biblical storytelling?
The relationship between faith and storytelling has always been central to Christianity. From the parables of Jesus to grand cinematic adaptations of biblical narratives, each generation has found new ways to bring Scripture to life. Today, artificial intelligence presents an unprecedented opportunity: the ability to generate detailed visual interpretations of biblical stories at a fraction of the cost of traditional filmmaking. But while AI holds great promise as a tool for evangelism, it also raises serious theological and ethical questions about the nature of divine revelation, artistic integrity, and the role of human interpretation.

Evangelizing Through Music
In 2013, the church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, London, began Great Sacred Music, a weekly Thursday offering. This offering featured choral works and hymns to “begin a movement that changes the way people approach sacred choral music, the way people think about making faith accessible to seekers and the lapsed, and the way people think about what church really is.” The success of Great Sacred Music has led Samuel Wells and Andrew Earis (vicar and director of music of St. Martin’s) to publish Great Sacred Music as a guide for other communities that might wish to duplicate these efforts.

Sundays at All Hallows (Sunday, March 23, 2025) Is Now Online

Welcome to Sundays at All Hallows.

This Sunday, the Third Sunday in Lent, unlike the two preceding Sundays, is more concerned with Jesus’s teaching than it is with an event in his life and ministry.

In this Sunday’s message we unpack the Gospel reading appointed for this Sunday and what it teaches us about God and ourselves.

Readings: Isaiah 55:1-9; 1 Corinthians 10:1-13; and Luke 13:1-9

Message: A Parable of God’s Grace

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2025/03/sundays-at-all-hallows-sunday-march-23.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: 'The danger of smartphones for a child’s faith' And More

The danger of smartphones for a child’s faith

Will Narnia, Lord of the Rings, and other children’s Christian classics soon be relegated to museums due to the rise of the smartphone? And how will this affect the faith of the next generation?

23 of the Most Common Questions Asked about Church Revitalization, Part 1
Thom and Jess look at some of the most common issues and questions you have about church revitalization. Your questions have directed us in our research and writings, and they will continue to do so. Though there were several hundred questions you submitted, we selected 23 most common questions about revitalizing churches. Because of the number, we cover the questions in four consecutive podcasts.

Part 2 Part 3 Part 4

7 Standards for Good Writing
How can I call an opinion about a subjective form wrong? Well, because there are standards by which I can argue. Each standard is open for debate, but combine them all and a sieve of sorts is formed to sift the poor works and let through the quality ones.

We Are Not Númenóreans
Tolkien's ancient race still describes us . . . but what if there's something more?

USDA cuts could halt progress of SD local food scene
South Dakota farmers leading the "locally grown" movement have visions of a dynamic regional food production system but some of it is in doubt with looming federal cuts. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is swept up in the Trump administration's downsizing of federal agencies, including cancellation of the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program for food banks to buy local produce at a market rate. Grants from the Regional Food Business Center program are also in limbo

Farmers panic as Trump threatens $1 billion in grants — that they've already spent
The Trump administration’s freeze on funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, the landmark climate law from the Biden era, has left farmers and rural businesses across the country on the hook for costly energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy installations. The grants are part of the Rural Energy for America Program, or REAP, originally created in the 2008 farm bill and supercharged by funding from the IRA. It provides farmers and other businesses in rural areas with relatively small grants and loans to help lower their energy bills by investing, say, in more energy-efficient farming equipment or installing small solar arrays.

New Social Security requirements pose barriers to rural communities without internet, transportation
Veronica Taylor doesn't know how to turn on a computer, let alone use the internet. The 73-year-old can't drive and is mostly housebound in her mountainous and remote West Virginia community, where a simple trip to the grocery store can take an hour by car. New requirements that Social Security recipients access key benefits online or in person at a field office, rather than on the phone, would be nearly impossible to meet without help.

Related: Social Security Employees Warn of Benefit Delays, A list of the Social Security offices across the US expected to close this year, 'Slap in the face': Pro-Trump Republican slams president’s closure of local Social Security office, Billionaire Commerce Secretary Says Seniors Wouldn't Mind Missing Social Security Checks, and DOGE’s plans for social security are a ‘backdoor’ way to cut payments, experts warn: ‘This is the most serious threat I’ve ever seen to it’

New Survey Finds Medicaid Cuts Would Devastate School Staffing and Services
As public education comes under attack on a number of fronts, school leaders are sounding the alarm about potential significant cuts to Medicaid. This federal-state partnership covers comprehensive and preventive physical, behavioral and mental health services and provides critical funding to K-12 schools and students.

Over 5 Million People Could Lose Medicaid Coverage If Requirements Change
More than 5 million Americans are at risk of losing their Medicaid coverage if Congress enacts work requirements in 2026, according to a new report from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

Measles seizure risks outweigh rare vaccine side effects
As an outbreak of measles infects hundreds of Americans, social media users are warning parents against the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, falsely claiming the shot poses a higher risk of seizures than infection. Not only does measles pose a greater danger, but experts say seizure conditions related to the illness can cause life-long brain injury.

Related: When speaking with vaccine-hesitant patients, pediatricians turn to these tips; Debunked myths that vaccines cause autism are increasing stigma

After 5 years of COVID, the US is struggling with lower vaccination rates and distrust in public health
Last month, for the first time in two decades, a 6-year-old child in the U.S. died due to measles. Just a few weeks later, a second person died. Both were unvaccinated, making them part of a worrying trend that public health experts have seen increase since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Notorious Anti-Vaxxer Tops Trump and RFK Jr.‘s List For New CDC Boss
The Florida surgeon general who said COVID-19 vaccines are the “anti-Christ” is gaining steam to be Donald Trump’s pick to run the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Florida’s top doc, Joseph Ladapo, was HHS secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s initial choice for the CDC gig in November, ABC News reported at the time, and he is now backed by top Trump allies and being discussed by the White House as a possible appointment again.

Individuals with higher cognitive flexibility are more positive toward vaccination 

A study conducted in New Zealand has found a link between cognitive flexibility and attitudes toward vaccination. Individuals with lower levels of cognitive flexibility were more likely to report personal barriers to vaccination—that is, they tended to state that vaccination conflicted with their personal beliefs. The research was published in BMC Psychology.