Tuesday's Catch: 'What Every Church Leader Needs to Know to Move Church Members to Higher Levels of Generosity' And More

What Every Church Leader Needs to Know to Move Church Members to Higher Levels of Generosity
Art Rainer joins Thom to unpack some amazing research that can help you know how to lead your church members to higher levels of giving. You will be amazed how a few simple things can move your church toward greater stewardship.

Jimmy Carter embodied what Trump has never been able to grasp about Christianity
It’d be difficult to find a starker difference in how a president wields religion than the juxtaposition of Jimmy Carter and President-elect Donald Trump.

Also See: Jimmy Carter Constantly Put His Faith in Action

What's the Recipe for Loneliness?
Is it lack of religion? Little education? A low income?

How banning Christmas in Scotland helped to create Hogmanay
A ban on Christmas in Scotland led to the development of Hogmanay. This is the story....

Creativity Deepens Connection in Colorado Springs
In Colorado Springs, the people of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church strive to make Christ known through care, cr3 Things Pastors Should Stop Doing in 2025eativity, and communion.

3 Things Pastors Should Stop Doing in 2025
...sometimes, becoming the leader God created you to be requires you to focus on what you’re going to stop doing rather than what you plan to start. Here are three things pastors should strive to stop doing in 2025.

Youth Group Leader Mistakes and How To Prevent (or Solve) Them
Youth group leader mistakes happen to everyone. Thankfully, these missteps and stumbles also lead to growth. Whether you’re just entering youth ministry or are a seasoned veteran, keep these common pitfalls in mind. Also learn from the well-earned wisdom of mentors and ministry peers.

Single-minded hospitality: a practical guide to entertaining on your own
...practical tips for entertaining as someone living on their own or with housemates....

Also See: A Gospel-driven mamma’s view on hospitality

Is Sharing the Gospel on Social Media Still Worth It?
You can reach both the neighborhoods and nations on social media.

Monday's Catch: 'Five Reasons Why 2025 Will Be a Pivotal Year for Many Churches' And More

Five Reasons Why 2025 Will Be a Pivotal Year for Many Churches
There seems to be a convergence of issues that could have a profound effect on churches in 2025. Frankly, I could name at least a dozen issues, but these five seem to be the most likely. Their magnitude could be significant as well.

A Time to Mourn, a Time to Dance: The Feast of the Holy Innocents
Every December 28, just a few days after the Feast of the Nativity, the Church remembers these massacred children. Amid the joy and festivity of Christmas, we are invited to reflect on the profound darkness of the world into which Christ was born. The world in which the Word became flesh is not the saccharine, pollyannish setting of Hallmark movies. Christ was born into our world: a broken place of bloodshed and heartbreak.

Christian persecution in India hits record high, says rights body
Violence against Christians in India has reached unprecedented levels, with 745 incidents reported through November 2024, according to data released by the United Christian Forum (UCF), a Delhi-based civil society organisatioBleak outlook for US farmers – and Trump tariffs could make it worsen. The figure marks a significant increase from previous years, with documented incidents rising steadily from 127 in 2014 to 734 in 2023. The data, collected through UCF's toll-free helpline, shows a nearly six-fold increase over the past decade.

Bleak outlook for US farmers – and Trump tariffs could make it worse
Many US midwestern grain farmers will lose money this year after reaping a bumper crop, and the outlook for their future income is bleak.

Why an article on the economic outlook for US farmers? What affects US farmers, affects rural communities and what affects rural communities affects churches in those communities.

Jesus Illustrated His Sermons: Shouldn't We Follow His Example?
Discover how one of our Lord's faous sayings was actually a vivid, up-to-date illustration.

How To Be A Great Backup Singer
It’s one thing to have a great voice. It is quite another to possess the skills it takes to make your worship leader want to schedule you as often as possible. Here are some solid tips on how to improve as a backup singer.

5 Reasons I’m Starting To Read a Paper Bible Again
Here are five reasons I’m going to begin reading more from my paper Bible.

Be Committed to Leave a Legacy
Who do you want to be remembered after you die? What legacy would you want to leave others behind? What kind of impact do you wish to leave others with whom you interacted?

Sundays at All Hallows (Sunday, December 29, 2024) Is Now Online

Welcome to Sundays at All Hallows.

This Sunday is the First Sunday after Christmas, the last Sunday of the old civil year. Next Sunday will be the Second Sunday after Christmas. It will also be Twelfth Night and will bring the Christmas Season to a close. Monday, January 6, is the Feast of the Epiphany.

In this Sunday’s message we take a look at what the apostle Paul taught was the most important part of a Christian’s new life.

Readings: 1 Samuel 2: 18-21, Colossians 3: 12-17; and Luke 2: 41-52

Message: The Most Important Part of a Christian’s New Life

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2024/12/sundays-at-all-hallows-sunday-december_28.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 Centrality of Prayer' And More

The Centrality of Prayer
Imagine a life where prayer is as natural and essential as breathing. A life where communication with God isn’t confined to Sunday mornings or crisis moments, but flows continuously throughout our days. This is the kind of devotion to prayer that the early Christian church exemplified, and it’s a calling that still resonates with us today.

Also See: Prayer Statistics: Insights on Prayer Habits and Impact

From St Stephens to the Epiphany to Candlemas: what are the unusually named Christian celebrations around Christmas and New Year?
The days and weeks following Christmas are meant for much more than turkey leftovers. Throughout the ages churches have designated particular days to remember important Christian stories – and to celebrate – and the period following Christmas is particularly full of them.

Why Theology Is for Everyone & How the Church Can Provide Training
In this article, we’ll examine why theology is for everyone. We’ll see that adding theology to your church’s spiritual growth practices will deepen the faith and practice of your people.

Sermon-Based Small Groups: Yes or No
More and more churches seem to be moving to sermon-based small groups. That is, they review and study the same text the pastor preached on the previous Sunday. On the other hand, I’ve met church leaders who oppose this approach. Good and bad, Here’s a summary of the arguments I’m hearing.... 

Does the New Year Need a New You?
In this season of “New Year, New You,” let’s consider how we can approach growth differently. Here are four principles to find hope and rest in Christ’s power to transform us.

How To Make A New Year’s Resolution That Sticks
Willpower is enough to get you started, but you will need habit to sustain it.

What Happens When We Share the Gospel? Six Encouragements
A few observations that can help you understand evangelism....

Friday's Catch: 'Do Denominations Matter?' And More

Do Denominations Matter?
A majority of pastors with denominational affiliation believe it is vital to be part of a denomination, but a majority also believe that the importance of identifying with a denomination will diminish over the next 10 years.

15 Traps to Avoid If You Lease a Part of Your Church Facility
More churches are leasing parts of their facilities for both ministry and additional income. Likewise, more churches are making big mistakes in the leasing process. Jess and Thom look at 15 of those mistakes. Listening to just a few of these traps could be a game-changer for your congregation.

Ancient 'Mount of Olives' lamp with Jewish Temple symbols discovered in Jerusalem
A rare 1,700-year-old lamp with Jewish Temple symbols has been uncovered in Jerusalem, the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) announced on Thursday.

Am I Overusing Bible Commentaries?
What’s the right balance of reading the Bible and reading commentaries? How do you move back and forth from text to commentary to benefit from great teachers but not at the neglect of the text of Scripture itself? How do I know if I’m overusing commentaries?

One Simple, Vital Question You Should Ask Immediately After Preaching
Ask this--before the allure of a relaxing Sunday afternoon or the pressures of starting the week on Monday morning win out.

How a humble folk song became the world's best-known carol
At Christmas time, the best-loved of all Christmas carols is Silent Night. This is its story....

3 Things Worship Leaders Must Consider for the Upcoming Year
If you’re not quite in the “resolution” mindset, let me offer a few suggestions of things to consider in upcoming year.

A Dozen Practical Ways to Evangelize
The Bible says: “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news” (Rom. 10:15). Scripture commands Christians to tell others about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Here are a dozen practical ways to do this.

When we read "preaching in the open air," the image of a street corner evangelist with a bullhorn megaphone may come to mind. Open air preaching, however, includes preaching outdoors in a variety of settings such as the Greek amphitheater of a city park, an open-air chapel at a campground, at a church picnic in a public picnic area, at a street party in a community neighborhood, and the like.

Image Credit: The Living Church

Thursday's Catch: 'Mission Shift: How a Declining Global Birth Rate Will Shape Future Outreach ' And More

Mission Shift: How a Declining Global Birth Rate Will Shape Future Outreach
One megatrend that has significant implications for the local church that needs to be considered is the decline of the global fertility rate and its impact on aging, immigration and religion.

Proposed regulation in Sri Lanka targets churches’ religious freedom, Evangelicals warn
A proposed regulation in Sri Lanka targets Christian churches in the Buddhist-majority country, according to an Evangelical association. New churches trying to establish new worship sites are already required to register, and the proposal would make registration mandatory also for existing church venues, according to the National Christian Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka (NCEASL).

Hospitality: The Forgotten Qualification
When considering the qualifications for elders, “able to teach” is often recognized as the one qualification uniquely required for the office (1 Tim. 3:2, Tit. 1:9). Certainly, the unique role of elders centers on “the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:4). But another qualification is often missed or underdeveloped, which is vitally supplemental to the teaching ministry.

How Should I Spend My Time During the Final Days of the Year?
If you squander this time now, you’ll regret it later.

10 Mistakes I’ve Made in Preaching
We can learn from the mistakes and experiences of others.

Personal Convictions and Gospel Preaching
The pulpit is so much more than merely a place where a sermon is delivered on a text of Scripture. It is a place where the preacher exerts pastoral leadership, announces and promotes new initiatives, and so much more. Yet personal convictions should not get in the way of faithful gospel preaching.

Engage Bespoke Spirituality: Reflections from Conversations on Campus
Proximity used to suffice to find common worldviews; now, we must learn to live harmoniously with people of radically different faiths.

Summer Church Activities: 18 Fun Fellowship Ideas
A great way to reach families is with summer church activities! After all, God doesn’t take a sabbatical during summer months. How can your church seize the unique evangelism and fellowship opportunities of the season?

Bad Things Happen When Technology Gets Ahead of Strategy
Never forget that ideas drive the world, not technology.

The Critical First Five Minutes of Your Small Group
In this article, I want to talk about the introduction to the group Bible study & discussion time. What is a good introduction to do, and why is it important? Why do we need an introduction—or do we? If you use the suggestion in this article, you will never again struggle to keep people’s attention.

Thursday Evenings at All Hallows (Thursday, December 26, 2024) Is Now Online

Welcome to Thursday Evenings at All Hallows.

In the Church calendar a number of holy days occur during the Twelve Days of Christmas, all of which fall closely on the heels of Christmas Day—the Feast of Saint Stephen the first martyr, the Feast of the Holy Innocents, and the Feast of Saint John the evangelist. Today, the day after Christmas Day, is the Feast of Saint Stephen. This evening’s reading is Luke’s account of Stephen’s martyrdom from the Acts of the Apostles. (The bulk of Stephen’s address to the Council has been omitted.) In this evening’s message we unpack the implications of Stephen’s death for twenty-first century Christians.

Some psalms like Psalm 36, the variable psalm chosen for this evening’s service, are best spoken by a single voice. As well as expressing the particular character of the Psalm, this enables the speaker and those who may be listening to reflect upon its words. Instead of the Gloria Patri at the end of the Psalms, a prayer is provided for Psalm 36 in order to express in words that the individual or group’s prayer is in Christ.

Reading: Acts 6:8-15; 7:1, 51-59

Message: Lessons from the Martyrdom of Stephen, Christianity’s First Martyr

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2024/12/thursday-evenings-at-all-hallows_26.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.

A Most Joyous and Blessed Christmas to You and Your Loved Ones

The English Robin, my namesake, has a number of legends abut how it got its red breast. You can read about the Robin's associations with Christmas and the Birds of the Twelve Days of Christmas as well as read the stories of how the Robin got its red breast at Bird Spot. 

May God bless and keep you all this Christmas Day and every day of your lives, filling them with hope, peace, joy, and love without measure. 

Why I Believe Churches Should Have a Christmas Day Service

It was the practice of the Episcopal church that I attended as a teenager and later as an adult to have a service of Holy Communion on Christmas morning. It was a quiet service, the reading of lessons from Scripture, prayers, and the sacrament of Holy Communion. Even though it was Christmas morning, a surprising number of people attended.

The church also had a late night service on Christmas Eve, preceded by the singing of Christmas carols. At that service there was not only more Christmas carols, special music, Scripture readings, prayers, and the sacrament of Holy Communion but also solemn procession with lights and incense. It was always well attended.

The Episcopal church that I would help to plant and to pioneer had a service early on Christmas Eve and no service on Christmas Day. The thinking was, as is the case of a number of churches, that families would be too busy on Christmas Day to have time for a church service.

At that time, it was my wont as the church’s senior lay reader to read Morning Prayer at church on Christmas Day. As I was about to read the service, a car pulled up in the parking lot. A man and a woman and two children got out. I met them at the church entrance. The man asked me if the church was going to have a service on Christmas morning. I explained to him that there was no service on Christmas morning. I invited the family to join me for Morning Prayer. There was a look of disappointment on the faces of the man and the woman. The man declined, the family got back in their car, and left. I believe that they had been hoping that the church would have an early morning celebration of Holy Communion on Christmas Day.

 
This experience and the early Christmas morning celebration of Holy Communio at my former church convinced me that it a mistake not to have such a celebration on Christmas morning. It did not matter if the attendance was small. If the Holy Spirit prompts a family or individual to attend church service on Christmas morning, we should offer one for them to attend. We also should not underestimate the Holy Spirit’s ability to use such occasions to draw a family or individual closer to God. While some people may be very busy on Christmas Day, others are not. They will spend Christmas Day by themselves, not with family or friends. It is a mistake to assume that everyone is busy on Christmas Day.

The one whose birth we celebrate on Christmas Day came into the world to seek, and save the lost. It is the mission that he passed on to the apostles and to us after he rose from the dead and before he ascended into heaven. We are to share the good news with all and a sundry and to point them to Jesus. We are as his representatives to extend his invitation to discipleship. What better occasion than on the day on which we celebrate his birth.

Wednesday's Catch: 'A Meditation for Christmas Day: God’s Difficult Gift" And More

A Meditation for Christmas Day: God’s Difficult Gift
The best gifts are often the hardest to receive, especially when they are costly and leave us feeling undeserving or vulnerable. This truth is illustrated in O. Henry’s 1905 “The Gift of the Magi,” a short story about a young, poor, married couple, Jim and Della.

King Charles sends 'good wishes' to evangelistic campaign sharing the Good News as only 20% of UK citizens believe Jesus is Son of God
King Charles III has expressed his support for the “Shine Your Light” campaign that aims to galvanize 100,000 Christians in the U.K. to take part in pop-up carol singing, Nativity plays and other creative efforts to help people know Jesus is the King of Kings.

Church of England must 'be changed', says Archbishop of York in Christmas sermon
The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, has used his Christmas Day sermon to call for change in the Church of England.

Why the Christmas story still matters today
At Christmas we seek solace from the tumult of politics and the darkness of the world. We take comfort in magic and sparkle, mountains of food and festive films. On the Christmas adverts, it is always snowing outside and sparkling inside. Windows glow, children are rosy-cheeked and presents are expertly wrapped. Even though most of us probably never actually experienced a Christmas like this - we may have memories of family awkwardness, arguments or absences – we want to recapture a fabricated nostalgia, a sense of belonging and contentment.

East Harling: Amazing Glazing and a Remarkable Lady
East Harling is a very small south Norfolk market town, whose most remarkable possession is its medieval church. Its tower was built in the 14th century but given a facelift a century later when the rest of the church was reconstructed, notably its battlements and lead spirelet. In the early 18th century, the Rev. Francis Blomefield, the pioneering Norfolk historian, saw records that have since disappeared and noted that the steeple was “finished” in 1449.

My interest in the churches of Norfolk and Suffolk goes back to my childhood when I lived in a village in Suffolk and cycled about the countryside, visiting the churches of Seely Suffolk, Holy Suffolk. My village was not far from the Norfolk border and my family visited Norwich on a number of occasions

Hallelujah!
The song stops us in our tracks and fixes our gaze on the stunning glory of Christ, the ‘King of kings, and Lord of lords.

Angel Voices, Richly Blending
Robert Farrell arranges this lovely hymn text from James Quinn, SJ. Utilizing and expanding upon the beautiful 14th-century hymn tune QUEM PASTORES LAUDAVERE, Farrell delivers a superb carol for the Christmas season. The sheet music may be purchased from OCP Music.

What Do You Want?
What do you want for Christmas? It’s the question that rings through the air this time of year. What do you want? What can I give to you to show you my love? What would make you happy?

Tuesday's Catch: 'Revival in America' And More

Revival in America
There are spiritual tremors—is a full-scale quake on the horizon?

Rediscovering the true reason for the season
Just as regularly as the approach of Christmas means an increase in the number of advertisements for perfume on television, so also it means that anti-Christian sceptics will proclaim that Christmas was originally a pagan mid-winter festival which Christians appropriated for their own nefarious purposes when they became the dominant religious force in the Roman empire from the fourth century AD onwards.

What Did Mary Know? Maybe More Than You Know
You’ve heard the song. You’ve felt the angst. What did Mary know when she gave birth to Jesus Christ?

The Lesser Known Joseph
There are two very famous men in Scripture who share the name Joseph. There’s the Old Testament Joseph, the great savior of the nation of Israel, whose amazing story from abandoned brother to Egyptian lord is chronicled in Genesis. Then there’s the New Testament Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, who believed in the angel’s report and became the guardian of the young Messiah. But there’s a third Joseph, often overlooked because of the drama of the moment onto which he stepped.

20,000 gather in Phoenix for Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest 2024
One of the evangelical groups that helped send Donald Trump back to the White House held a massive rally for the once and future president in Phoenix over the weekend, and Trump pledged to keep the promises he’s made to them.

Trump supporters like retiree Jeanne Smith of Walkertown, N.C., see Trump as they want to see him, not the real man that he is. Jesus warned his disciples that false prophets and false messiahs would come and lead people astray. It is a warning that we do well to heed.

At Trump’s inauguration, reports of a pay-to-pray
According to a report, you can pray with Trump and Melania. It'll only cost you $100,000.

How to Really Enjoy Your Christmas as a Pastor
The holiday season can be stressful for pastors. The sprint to year-end can exhaust even the most seasoned church staff. Thom and Sam discuss ways to enjoy this busy time of year.

CofE bishops claim Christmas carols saying Jesus is ‘true Messiah’ are ‘problematic’
Bishops within the Church of England have raised concerns that certain Christmas carols might be “problematic” because of their explicit references to Jesus as the “true Messiah.” The Birmingham Diocese recently communicated to its clergy the need to reassess the language used in hymns to create an “inclusive” environment during the festive season.

Tracing the roots of Christmas carols: An interview with composer Andrew Gant
New book Deck the Hall by composer Andrew Gant tells the origin stories of our beloved Christmas carols. Described as a 'festive treat', the book uncovers the variety of traditions and places the carols were founded in. Some started life as a folk song, some are French. And although Christmas carols are sung in church, this has not always been the case. Christian Today spoke to Gant to hear about the interesting back stories to many of our favourite carols and how they made their journey into the church.

Every Church Audio Tech Faces a Secret Battle
The stage was set. The equipment checked and double-checked. The band was plugged in and ready. Everything was as expected until they played the first song.

Christmas Eve at All Hallows (Tuesday, December 24, 2024) Is Now Online

Welcome to Christmas Eve at All Hallows.

The Twelve Days of Christmas begins on Christmas Eve, the eve of the Feast of the Nativity, and lasts until Twelfth Night, the eve of the Feast of the Epiphany. Beginning on Christmas Eve and throughout the Twelve Days of Christmas, we celebrate the birth of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. On the Feast of the Epiphany, we celebrate his revelation to the Gentiles, to the Magi, or Wisemen, who came from the East, bearing gifts of frankincense, gold, and myrrh.

This evening’s message examines a unique characteristic of the Christian faith and way of life.

Readings: Isaiah 62:6-12; Titus 3:4-7; and Luke 2:1-20

Message: The Way of Christ

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2024/12/christmas-eve-at-all-hallows-tuesday.html

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

If you are new to Christmas Eve 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 Christmas Eve at All Hallows be a blessing to you.

Monday's Catch: 'Keeping the Twelve Days of Christmas' And More

Keeping the Twelve Days of Christmas
Whether we have had a meditative and reflective Advent or have been non-canonically celebrating Christmas since All Hallow’s, the 12 days are approaching, and it is wise to ask how we will keep them. As with all the Church’s seasons, there are some wonderful opportunities. I’d like to suggest a few ways of keeping merry not for one day, but for the season. Let’s mark the 12 days even if the commercial world has moved on to New Year’s and — God help us — Valentine’s Day.

How You Can Help Your Community Trust Your Church Again
This post is focused on how people outside your church see your church and, more importantly, what you can do about it.

Building community trust is still a task facing local churches just a little more than a week away from the beginning of 2025.

Christians in the Twenty-First Century: Churchgoers or Disciples of Jesus?
Like the preceding article, this article was also written in 2023. It is as relevant today as it was then, arguably even more so.

Christianity Today removed the article to which this article is linked.

5 Lessons for New Church Planters
Here are five lessons I’ve learned recently that I’m clinging to today and will return to as our church matures.

What was the star that the wise men followed?
At Christmas, we remember the wise men who followed a star to Bethlehem. But what was the star? This is the story....

Five Powerful Prayers for Your Christmas Eve Service
Most churches will have more guests during a Christmas Eve service than in any other service throughout the year. What will you say to God with all these new people listening? As pastors, we have the unique opportunity in a Christmas Eve service to lead our congregations—and numerous guests from the community—in prayer. These five prayers can serve as guides, helping to set a joyful tone and celebratory atmosphere for the birth of Jesus.

How (Not) to Use AI: Three Principles
This article might have been better if ChatGPT had written it. But I think I’m better off for having it written it myself. And in the long run, that’s more important to me.

Teens and Church: 6 Things Young People Need From You
Asking what teens want from church is the wrong question. What teenagers desire from a faith community doesn’t compare to what they need. So let’s look at the topic from that angle.

Sundays at All Hallows (Sunday, December 22, 2024) Is Now Online

Welcome to Sundays at All Hallows.

An ancient tradition from the earliest days of Christian Morning Prayer is the singing of one or more Laudate Psalms, Psalms of Praise, at the conclusion of the psalmody. These hymns of praise gave Morning Prayer its older name of Lauds.

This Sunday’s Laudate Psalm is a metrical paraphrase of the Great Doxology, Psalm 150, “Blessed Be the Lord Our God,” written by the Scottish hymn writer, James Quinn. The tune is FESTAL SONG (“Rise Up, O Me of God, The Hymnal 1982 #551; The United Methodist Hymnal #576), composed by William H. Walter. The melody of the tune, played on the piano, is recorded on the audio file. The entire melody is played as the introduction. There are no vocals on the audio file.

Read the words of the hymn before attempting to sing it to familiarize yourself with them. If you are not familiar with the tune, hum along with the introduction. If you have not yet grasped the tune, you may also want to hum along with the first verse before attempting to sing the hymn. If you don’t yet feel confident to sing the hymn, read the words again while playing the piano accompaniment. The hymn will be repeated on future Sundays to help you learn it.

Last Sunday we took a look at the Song of Zechariah, a prophetic song found in Luke’s Gospel. In this Sunday’s message will be looking at a second prophetic song found in that gospel—the Song of Mary—and what we can learn from it.

Readings: Micah 5: 2-5a, Hebrews 10: 5-10, and Luke 1: 39-56

Message: A True Mark of God’s Favor

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2024/12/sundays-at-all-hallows-sunday-december_21.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.

Important Notice: Please feel free to share comments related to the contents of the service but please do not link your comments to webpages or websites advertising products or services. This typically inflates the stats for the service and creates a false picture of how many people have viewed the service and benefitted from it.

Saturday Laniappe: 'Winter solstice is having a moment — in churches, too' Ad More

Winter solstice is having a moment — in churches, too
In mainline Christian circles, winter solstice celebrations and longest night services are growing in popularity.

What is Christingle?
Every year, thousands of children across the UK attend a Christingle service at a local church. This is the story....

The Christingle Service is a seasonal celebration that I would like to see introduced in Episcopal and other Anglican churches in the United States, and in United Methodist and other Methodist churches too. It offers an annual special event to which the public can be invited, establishing another point of contact between a church and its community.

Churches offer ‘Blue Christmas’ for those grieving, suffering loss
Many churches across the United States are offering a special worship service known as “Blue Christmas” to minister to those dealing with personal loss during the holiday season.

See also: Religious traditions can help with holiday blues, mental health experts say

Pastoral Letter Addressing Plight of Migrants, Immigrants and Refugees
The Council of Bishops of th United Methodist Church has released a pastoral letter addressinng this critical topic.

Churches consider what sanctuary might look like in Trump's second term
The news that Trump may rescind a policy discouraging immigration officials from arresting people at churches is making some church leaders reconsider sanctuary.

Diocese of Easton Considers ‘Creative Options’
The Diocese of Easton’s Standing Committee has called for a “period of discernment” after Bishop Santosh Marray announced his intention to resign from leading the rural diocese on Maryland’s Eastern Shore in the fall of 2026. The Standing Committee seeks clergy and lay volunteers to serve on a discernment committee that will recommend steps for the diocese’s future.

Presiding bishop election, Title IV cases and ‘clergy shortage’ among top ENS stories of 2024
The three stories that interested me the most was the acceleration of the trend toward diocesan merger, the response of dioceses and congregations to the perceived "clergy shortage," and the progress in the ecumenical dialogue with United Methodist Church (UMC). In the UMC the two annual conferences and the missionary district that have jurisdiction in Kentucky are now served by one bishop, perhaps a portent of things to come in the Episcopal Church in Kentucky. Only one Episcopal church in my region of Kentucky has a full-time priest of its own. The other churches must either share a part-time priest or employ the services of a supply priest. The UMC has a significantly different view of the bishops, ordained ministry, and lay presidency from the Episcopal Church. Accommodating the Episcopal Church's view has a strong likelihood of proving harmful to the UMC.

Wait, We’re to Blame?
The greatest mistake of the past generations of Christians in this country was trying to Christianize the culture without evangelizing the people.

Christmas Worship Can Win the Battle – for Our Hearts
Christmas worship is a means put in our hands for the gradual conquering of our own hearts – and the hearts of others – by the God of Christmas.

‘A mega-mechanism for bonding’: why singing together does us good
Carols and choirs are enjoying a boom in popularity, and science is showing how they improve lives.

A reminder of the benefits of singing for congregations for churches that have devalued the importance of congregational singing in the life, ministry, and worship of the local church.

Online Content and Streaming Tips for Families at Christmas
Online content and streaming now dominate children’s free time. And Christmas vacation brings even more down time—and screen time—for kids. This holiday season, and all year long, partner with parents to help families stream good news of great joy into their homes.

Friday's Catch: 'Christmas in a world of conflict: where is God, and what is His plan?' And More

Christmas in a world of conflict: where is God, and what is His plan?
As Christmas approaches, the lights and celebrations often stand in stark contrast to the turmoil gripping our world.

It’s Not Dead
The end is nigh for the Anglican Church of Canada, says David Goodhew. In fact, the end has already come and gone. We are left watching its taillight disappear into the clouds as we wring our hands in sorrow, pining for the old days.

Growth Through Grace in Waco, Texas
In the heart of Waco, Texas, stands a stone church. On a pleasant corner lot, with its bell tower and rose window, the unsuspecting passerby might consider St. Alban’s a charming sight but lacking the ability to speak to today. Instead, through the Church’s traditions, St. Alban’s offers a crucial and relevant message of grace and forgiveness.

Episcopal Church-affiliated university loses accreditation, will appeal decision
A historically African American university affiliated with the Episcopal Church has had its accreditation revoked due to financial woes, though the academic institution is appealing the decision.

Are There Folks Who Oppose Homosexuality But Support Same-Sex Marriage?
...are there many people out there who favor same-sex marriage but believe that homosexuality is wrong? The GSS (General Social Survey) can certainly help us tease that apart.

Related article: Burge: Evangelicals remain outliers in opposing both homosexuality and same-sex marriage

Burge also has an article on the Church Answers website, How the Rise of Evangelical Distrust Is Making Evangelism Harder, but you must be a Church Answers member to read it.

9 Ways to Help Those Who Are Suffering
...how do we help those who are suffering? How can we grow in showing up with love and wisdom?

A Christmas Sermon 1,700 Years Old
Help can come from the most unexpected places: You can look to the Church Fathers to help prepare your Christmas message.

4 Deadly Dangers In Shortcutting Quality Exegesis
Shortcuts in exegesis result in a passage idea that does not carry the true content--nor the character--of the passage on which we claim to be preaching.

Service Project Ideas for Youth Groups: 10 Meaningful Ways to Volunteer
Finding impactful service project ideas for youth groups can be challenging. Youth ministers have busy teaching schedules, and teens have packed calendars. But volunteer projects build servant leaders and selfless attitudes.

Thursday's Catch: 'Partnering to Plant: Seven Ways Churches Can Collaborate' And More

Partnering to Plant: Seven Ways Churches Can Collaborate
Here are seven ways we’ve benefited from the help of other churches in our town and region, along with some biblical principles that account for why these other churches have been so helpful to us.

Faith communities must protest Trump's deportation plans
U.S. faith communities have long served as the moral compass of the nation in moments of crisis.

See also: American views on illegal immigrants aren’t as clear cut as MAGA thinks

Trump’s new ICE policy attacks the church
Last week, the incoming Trump administration announced it will rescind a 2011 ICE policy that keeps government officials from entering sensitive locations such as schools, churches and hospitals to carry out immigration raids and deportations. The mere thought of this change should be concerning for Americans who care about basic decency and human rights.

No Christmas is Perfect and That’s Okay
Today I want to share four steps to embracing imperfection during the holidays. These four steps can reduce stress, bring you closer to God, and make your Christmas celebrations even more meaningful.

The meaning and story of some of our most beautiful and historic Christmas carols
The carol has remained a central part of our seasonal tradition for people of Christian faith and none. It is one of the few remnants of explicitly religious heritage that England has, and has even survived atheist attempts to sabotage it by rewriting the words to be more acceptable to secular ears.

iPad Preaching with a Virtual Whiteboard, what I Learned
In my teaching on Sunday mornings in my church I occasional use a tool that turns my iPad into a virtual whiteboard. I use an app called Airsketch which allows me to connect my iPad to our church’s local wi-fi network which in turn allows the computer which drives our projector to put the image of my iPad on the screen. It’s a nifty technique and I’ve learned a few insights from its use.

How to Develop a Church Outreach Plan from Your Demographic and Psychographic Report
The demographic and psychographic information about your church is vital to establishing a healthy outreach plan. Jess and Thom show how this plan can be developed for your church.

Thursday Evenings at All Hallows (Thursday, December 19, 2024) Is Now Online

Welcome to Thursday Evenings at All Hallows.

Have you ever gone to a concert of a favorite singer or band, planning to take photos and record music with your smart phone, only to discover that you forgot to recharge your phone? The battery is dead! Or gone primitive camping, planning to cook your meals over a campfire, only to discover that forgot to bring a lighter or matches? There you are in the backcountry, miles from civilization, with no way to start a fire!

The Boy Scouts and the Girl Scouts (the Girl Guides in Canada and the United Kingdom) have a motto, “Be prepared.” As we shall see in this Thursday evening’s message, it is a good motto for Christians too.

Reading: Luke 25: 1-13

Message: Are You Ready?

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2024/12/thursday-evenings-at-all-hallows_18.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.

Wednesday's Catch: '7 Christmas Eve Service Ideas That Work' And More

7 Christmas Eve Service Ideas That Work
Make an effort to create a special service on Christmas Eve.

Has Your Leadership Peaked? The Theory of the 10 Year Run.
It's a very real thing for leaders to run out of fresh strategy, new approaches, innovations and best ideas long before their time in leadership is over.

Coming Back From Betrayal Trauma
...one significant area in which pastors still feel bruised by the events of 2020 is the sudden, hurtful and often unexplained departure of close friends from their church.

What Is the Earliest Complete List of the Canon of the New Testament?
Was the canon of the Bible settled before Athanasius’ famous Festal Letter? Michael J. Kruger thinks so.

12 Fresh Ways to Read Your Bible in 2025
Anew year offers a new opportunity—an opportunity to rethink and refresh the way you read your Bible. While some have found a pattern or habit they love and will never deviate from, others like to look for new ways to read, digest, and apply the Word. For those who may be interested in trying something new, here are a few ideas that may be worth considering.

The One Thing You Need to Do to Grow
"I want to give you the only thing you have to do to grow spiritually, at least the main one. Ready?"

The Increasing Value of Christian Testimonies
There are various ways we might seek to commend the gospel to people today. But one of the best, in that it addresses questions of both relevance and goodness, is to share our testimony.

How to Mobilize Your Church for Evangelism 

Here are a few lessons that could help any church that’s working to become more faithful and effective in sharing the good news.

Tuesday's Catch: 'Does It Matter If Your Church Feels Outdated?'

Does It Matter If Your Church Feels Outdated?
God has placed you in this decade to do His work. Is your church proclaiming “Today is the day of salvation” in today’s words and methods?

Leading (and Loving) a Dying Church
How can you lead (and love) a church that is dying? Thom and Sam discuss this listener-submitted question. No church should die, but some will. Some pastors must shepherd congregations on what amounts to spiritual hospice care. It’s a difficult calling, but there are some ways to glorify God, even as a church goes through the process of closing.

Yes, a free and fair press is under assault by Trump and MAGA
The First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States can’t stay off the political hot seat. There’s a bill now before the U.S. Senate, known as the PRESS Act — the Protect Reporters from Exploitative State Spying Act — that would prevent the government from forcing journalists to reveal their sources.

See Also: Why we can’t trust ABC News

Is the Kingdom of God a Fortress or a Seed?
The kingdom of God is a different kind of kingdom than the world’s kingdoms.

Audio Mixing 101
One of the hardest things to teach a new sound operator is how to mix. It requires the development of an “ear” for what to change, when to change it and what levels are appropriate....

Natality and Formation
This essay is part of a series on Natality, a conversation about child-bearing, family life, birth rates, and the presence or absence of children in churches.

3 Reasons Why Evangelism Is a Primary Means for Spiritual Growth
...sharing our faith is critical to our spiritual growth and the lack of doing so impedes our Christian growth.

How Can I Prepare to Be a Missionary?
If you are a Christian and are convinced that God has called you to serve as a missionary, here are ten things you can do to prepare yourself.

Monday's Catch: 'The Essential Purpose of the Church' And More

The Essential Purpose of the Church
When you think of church, what is the first thing that comes to your mind?

Why Are 30% of Your “Active” Church Members Absent on a Given Sunday?
Are any of you old enough to remember “perfect attendance awards”?

The little-known history of the Nativity play
In the run-up to Christmas, primary schools and Sunday schools often put on Nativity plays. This custom, however, is a surprisingly modern tradition. Here is its story.

True Organizational Change Requires a Little Chaos
Have you ever heard this quote? “Chaos often breeds life, while order breeds habit.” – Henry Adams, American Historian.

7 Essential Qualities for Facing Looming Ministry Transitions
By intentionally cultivating these seven qualities, pastors can do more than survive the transitions in the year ahead.

Keith Getty urges worship artists to prioritize depth over trends, talks power of Christmas hymns 

In an age when worship music trends come and go, modern hymnwriter Keith Getty is making a different appeal to artists and congregations alike: prioritize depth and scriptural soundness over popularity.

10 Mistakes I Made When Reading the Bible
Your reading experience will be far richer if you learn—as I’m doing—to avoid these common mistakes.

Have You Lost the Ability to Think Deeply?
We need to ask ourselves if entertainment is affecting our spiritual growth.

Sundays at All Hallows (Sunday, December 15, 2024) Is Now Online

Welcome to Sundays at All Hallows.

This Sunday is the Third Sunday of Advent, also called Gaudete Sunday, It takes its name from the Latin word Gaudete, “Rejoice,” a reference to Philippians 4: 4-7. On Gaudete Sunday churches which have an Advent Wreath light the third candle, the pink candle, on the wreath. In some churches rose pink vestments are worn on this Sunday and the Holy Table and pulpit-lectern are hung with rose pink paraments.

In this Sunday’s message we take a look at a prophetic song found in the Bible and long used in Christian worship, a song taken from the story of John the Baptist whose ministry is the focus of this Sunday’s gospel reading and has implications for every Christian.

Readings: Zephaniah 3: 14-20, Philippians 4: 4-7, and Luke 3: 7-18

Message: “Prepare the way of the Lord….”

Link: https://allhallowsmurray.blogspot.com/2024/12/sundays-at-all-hallows-sunday-december_14.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: 'Making the Most of Your Church Database' And More

Making the Most of Your Church Database
You have access to so much attendee and guest data. The question is, are you using your church database well?

For four weeks in a row I attend a Episcopal church to evaluate what it was doing in key areas and to identify where it might make improvements. Among the things that I discovered was that it was not keeping a record of who was attending its services or gathering contact information on first time worship visitors for follow-up purposes. This was surprising as it is a standard practice in most churches. The one exception with which I am acquainted was a dying church whose shrinking congregation eventually disbanded and sold their church building.

Why the religious beliefs of Trump defense pick Pete Hegseth matter
Hegseth’s Christian views have been shaped by a 20th-century movement, Christian Reconstruction, which seeks to make America a Christian nation built on biblical law, writes a religion scholar.

Why Christians should demand the establishment of the ERA now
The authors of this article argue that it is time for the Equal Rights Amendment to be added to the US Constitution and encourage readers of the article to urge President Biden to make its addition to the constitution a part of his legacy.

26 Questions Every Communicator Should Consider
Mastering communication is not the goal. Maximizing your communicative ability is the target.

Short Bible Messages for Youth: Make an Impact on Teens
Check out these five Bible-based messages that teenagers need to hear from you.

See Also: Raffle Basket Ideas for Awesome Youth Ministry Fundraisers

Christmas Craft Ideas for Children’s Ministry: Telling the Nativity Story
Christmas craft ideas for children’s ministry teach about Jesus’ birth in fun, hands-on ways. Crafts are an excellent way to make Bible lessons meaningful and memorable. Whether you teach preschoolers or older kids, crafting reinforces the Christmas story through creativity and joy.

See Also: Kindness Object Lesson: Teach Children to Build Up Others

Friday's Catch: 'Receiving the Christ Child' And More

Receiving the Christ Child
There is plenty of room in our churches these days. Yet there are few children. Many western “mainline” churches, especially the Anglican churches, are not unique in this regard.. We are merely following the trend. In the United States, in Europe, in Australia, in China — and in parts of Africa, too — birthrates are falling or have already fallen or will soon fall below replacement levels.

Top Leading Ideas Talks Podcast Episodes of 2024
Please share these podcasts with your colleagues, congregations, and friends.

Oldest Christian artefact north of the Alps unearthed in Germany
Archaeologists in Germany have confirmed the discovery of a 1,750-year-old amulet containing a silver scroll, now recognised as the oldest physical evidence of Christianity north of the Alps.

Examine Your Life
The media loves a good scandal, and it seems like pastors are a favorite target. Don’t get me wrong, many of the pastors who end up the subject of criticism have behaved in ways that invite public scrutiny and even judgment. This article is not a defense of pastors and church leaders who have crossed moral, emotional or financial lines. It is a heartfelt plea for all people in church leadership to realize that our witness and the witness of the church can be greatly compromised when we don’t tend to our own souls.

What to Do When People Let Us Down
Have you ever poured your heart into a project only to be let down by the very people you expected to support you? That’s quite a letdown question to begin this conversation, but it’s a reality we as leaders must face. As leaders, it’s tough to face the reality that sometimes, despite our best efforts, people just don’t show up or come through or do what we expect. People let us down.

Full Time Worship Ministry? Get a Real Job!
Now that I have your undivided attention, I do believe that full time worship ministry is indeed a worthy calling and vocation that requires preparation, education and skills. And yes, it is a real job. But what if opportunities were no longer available for you to lead worship vocationally? What if you needed to voluntarily or were asked involuntarily to step aside from full-time worship ministry for an interim or extended period of time? What if you are unable to land a worship ministry position after graduation? What would or could you do to provide for your family while still responding to God’s call? Some of us have found ourselves in that situation only to realize we are not trained or are not training to do anything else.

Helpful Hacks for Preaching from a Manuscript
The aim of manuscript preaching is to make it look like you’re not preaching from a manuscript, which isn’t easy. I’ve had my fair share of fumbles along the way. But those fumbles have taught me some things.

See also: The Frankenstein Sermon

What If We Let the Bible Form Us in 2025?
Each one of us will be formed into the image of something or someone in 2025. Whether the formation comes from CNN or FOX News, social media algorithms, or addictive substances, none of us will make it through the year unformed.

3 Means God Uses to Change Us (and 3 Ways We Change)
Christian anthropologist Paul Hiebert explains that the “biblical view of transformation” includes “both a point and a process; this transformation has simple beginnings (a person can turn wherever he or she is), but radical, lifelong consequences.” Hiebert continues, “It is not simply mental assent to a set of metaphysical beliefs, nor is it solely a positive feeling towards God. Rather it involves entering a life of discipleship and obedience in every area of our being and throughout the whole story of our lives.”

Thursday's Catch: 'Special Events: A Step in Evangelism' And More

Special Events: A Step in Evangelism
Special events are one of the tools we can use for training people to get comfortable talking with others, inviting them to our weekend worship gatherings, and eventually sharing their faith. Event evangelism can include the more popular ones like Easter and Christmas, but also can include Parent/Child Dedications, Mother’s and Father’s Day, and the beginning of a new sermon series.

The Most Common Barriers to Growth in Churches Today
Jess and Thom look at some of the most common barriers in churches while answering the “why” behind each one. Some of the challenges are the same as in past years, but the reasons behind them are often not.

Faith, Family, and the Village
If moral and spiritual divisions in our Christian communities have led to the fragmenting and dispersal of the “village,” then the vocation of churches in the coming years will be to rebuild in some sense what has been lost. Obviously this will look very different than it has in the past. The task of forming coherent and relationally close communities, in which the generations are not tied together by kinship or culture, presents certain kinds of challenges. But they are gospel challenges that derive from the heart of Christian teaching, the reality of Jesus Christ, in whom all nations and generations find their hope and salvation.

Who will be the next archbishop of Canterbury?
The Christmas Day sermon by the archbishop of Canterbury is the centerpiece of the Church of England’s seasonal celebrations. However, with the resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby, Anglicans will have to make do with a homily from the bishop of York before they tuck into the Christmas turkey.

Faith leaders express dismay amid report Trump will allow immigration raids at churches
‘I have 30 kids in a Sunday school class — I don’t know who is documented and undocumented,’ said one Latino pastor.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation Are Not the Same Thing
Too many people confuse forgiveness with reconciliation. What is the difference between the two and why does it matter so much?

8 Essential Components of Any Small Group Leaders Training
If companies provide training for employees, how much more important is it for the church to provide training for its frontline leaders?

How To Cope With Loneliness During the Holidays
When faced with loneliness, there are two primary ways we can address it: by changing our external circumstances or by shifting our internal perspective.

Gifts that aren't things: presents for your loved ones that won't end up at the back of a cupboard
...it can be a blessing to give experiences rather than things for Christmas presents. There are many options that can lead to treasured memories rather than fuller cupboards.