Between the New Atheist movement of the 2000s, clergy shortages in the Catholic Church, and the demographic collapse of Mainline Protestant sects in the United States, the story of religion for the past 35 years has been one of persistent decline. However, this may be about to change. Maybe.
Episcopal Church-affiliated university loses accreditation, will undergo 90-day arbitration
A university in North Carolina affiliated with The Episcopal Church has again lost accreditation, but will undergo an arbitration process to try and reverse the decision. Saint Augustine’s University announced last Thursday that its effort to appeal a decision by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to end its accreditation had failed.
Related: Saint Augustine’s University loses appeal, pursues arbitration in fight to keep accreditationDiocese of New Jersey Leaving Mortgage Business
For the last 15 years, the Diocese of New Jersey has essentially served as a mortgage lender, using a fully legal—if unusual—system that has allowed 20 of its closed churches to remain houses of worship while ensuring a revenue stream for some remnant congregations. Citing financial management problems, Bishop Sally French has decided to phase out the practice. She announced on March 1 that diocesan staff had worked during the last several months with its 19 remaining debtor congregations, which include a Buddhist temple and a Conservative Jewish synagogue, to get them caught up on their mortgage payments.
Canadian primate’s commission recommends cuts to ‘top-heavy’ church structures
The Anglican Church of Canada should consider making major cuts to the size of its governance gatherings and committees, says the report of a commission tasked with reimagining its future.
Christian Groups Kick Off Lent with Letters Objecting to Trump Moves on Budget and Immigration
Prominent Christian leaders, denominations and organizations are beginning the religious season of Lent by condemning actions taken by President Donald Trump, urging fellow faithful to advocate for immigrants and the poor while highlighting concerns that Congress may cut social safety net programs in a forthcoming federal budget package.
Jesus was a refugee says the Bishop of the Diocese of the Mid-Atlantic
"the Holy Family, including the Lord himself, [were] refugees in the true sense of the term. Their journey from Bethlehem to Egypt fits the common definition of a refugee seeking asylum in a different country to escape threats to their lives."
The church and Donald Trump
Amid the rising international tensions and overwhelming flood of executive orders under the new Trump administration, it is the duty of Anglicans in Canada to speak up for the marginalized and vulnerable, says Canon Maggie Helwig, rector of St. Stephen-in-the-Fields Church in Toronto. In a phone interview she took while multitasking on preparations for the church’s homeless drop-in program, Helwig told the Anglican Journal her goal was to bring that message to her parish.
Is church membership in the Bible? There’s no specific verse, but it’s important for the health of believers and the mission of the church.
The Call to Lead: Discerning God’s Voice in Your Leadership Journey
When we talk about calling in the Bible, we see it in two ways: specific callings and general callings. God called individuals for distinct purposes—Noah to build an ark, Moses to lead Israel out of slavery, Paul to preach the gospel to the Gentiles. These were unique, undeniable moments where God directed their lives in a clear, powerful way. But alongside these specific callings, there is also a general calling that applies to all believers. Jesus commissioned His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19)—a call that isn’t reserved for just a select few but for every Christian, regardless of their role or position.
What’s Ahead: Coming Trends in Leading Worship for the Local Church
Worship in the local church has always evolved to reflect cultural shifts, technological advancements, and theological insights. As churches seek to engage their congregations more meaningfully, new trends are emerging that will shape how worship is led in the coming years. Leading worship for the local church is no longer just about music; it involves fostering a holistic, immersive, and participatory experience that deepens the congregation’s connection with God.
Do Your Sunday Songs Pass the Test?
How does a pastor decide which songs to introduce? Why one song and not another? Here are a gauntlet of questions I ask when considering a new song for my church. If we’re going to sing a song on Sunday, it’s got to pass all the way through.
Here are five traditional hymns commonly sung at church services during the season of Lent, including their historical background and one or two verses from each song.
From the pews to the press: a new communication blueprint for the Church
In an era where media narratives shape public perception, churches often struggle to make their voices heard. Rev Peter Crumpler, an Anglican minister, former Director of Communications for the Church of England, and a seasoned journalist, has spent years working to bridge the gap between faith communities and the press. In this conversation, he shares insights into how churches can engage meaningfully with the media, the challenges of communicating in a digital world, and why proactive storytelling is essential for faith communities today.
Measles Is Back. And a Lot More People Are at Risk
Contrary to statements by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., outbreaks of this deadly disease are highly unusual. The U.S. declared measles eliminated more than 20 years ago, thanks to an exceptionally safe and effective vaccine. But efforts to undermine confidence in that vaccine have contributed to these recent outbreaks. There are things we can do, individually and collectively, to protect our most vulnerable and hopefully eliminate measles in this country again.
The call to forgive others: a reflection for Lent
With Lent underway, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the importance of forgiving others.
Defense of the Faith: How to Confidently Stand for Christian Beliefs in a Skeptical World
In today’s world, Christianity is often met with skepticism, criticism, and doubt. From university campuses to social media platforms, believers face a growing wave of secularism that challenges their beliefs. This leaves many feeling ill-equipped to defend their faith when confronted with tough questions. Whether you’re speaking with a friend, coworker, or someone you meet online, defending the Christian faith can be an overwhelming task. However, with the right tools and mindset, you can stand confidently and effectively represent your beliefs in a skeptical world.
Christian Groups Kick Off Lent with Letters Objecting to Trump Moves on Budget and Immigration
Prominent Christian leaders, denominations and organizations are beginning the religious season of Lent by condemning actions taken by President Donald Trump, urging fellow faithful to advocate for immigrants and the poor while highlighting concerns that Congress may cut social safety net programs in a forthcoming federal budget package.
Jesus was a refugee says the Bishop of the Diocese of the Mid-Atlantic
"the Holy Family, including the Lord himself, [were] refugees in the true sense of the term. Their journey from Bethlehem to Egypt fits the common definition of a refugee seeking asylum in a different country to escape threats to their lives."
The church and Donald Trump
Amid the rising international tensions and overwhelming flood of executive orders under the new Trump administration, it is the duty of Anglicans in Canada to speak up for the marginalized and vulnerable, says Canon Maggie Helwig, rector of St. Stephen-in-the-Fields Church in Toronto. In a phone interview she took while multitasking on preparations for the church’s homeless drop-in program, Helwig told the Anglican Journal her goal was to bring that message to her parish.
Related: What’s a Trade War and How Did We End Up In One?3 Ways to Help Your Church Value Membership
Is church membership in the Bible? There’s no specific verse, but it’s important for the health of believers and the mission of the church.
The Call to Lead: Discerning God’s Voice in Your Leadership Journey
When we talk about calling in the Bible, we see it in two ways: specific callings and general callings. God called individuals for distinct purposes—Noah to build an ark, Moses to lead Israel out of slavery, Paul to preach the gospel to the Gentiles. These were unique, undeniable moments where God directed their lives in a clear, powerful way. But alongside these specific callings, there is also a general calling that applies to all believers. Jesus commissioned His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19)—a call that isn’t reserved for just a select few but for every Christian, regardless of their role or position.
What’s Ahead: Coming Trends in Leading Worship for the Local Church
Worship in the local church has always evolved to reflect cultural shifts, technological advancements, and theological insights. As churches seek to engage their congregations more meaningfully, new trends are emerging that will shape how worship is led in the coming years. Leading worship for the local church is no longer just about music; it involves fostering a holistic, immersive, and participatory experience that deepens the congregation’s connection with God.
Do Your Sunday Songs Pass the Test?
How does a pastor decide which songs to introduce? Why one song and not another? Here are a gauntlet of questions I ask when considering a new song for my church. If we’re going to sing a song on Sunday, it’s got to pass all the way through.
Related: Music Ministry with Modest Resources5 songs to sing at church during Lent
Here are five traditional hymns commonly sung at church services during the season of Lent, including their historical background and one or two verses from each song.
From the pews to the press: a new communication blueprint for the Church
In an era where media narratives shape public perception, churches often struggle to make their voices heard. Rev Peter Crumpler, an Anglican minister, former Director of Communications for the Church of England, and a seasoned journalist, has spent years working to bridge the gap between faith communities and the press. In this conversation, he shares insights into how churches can engage meaningfully with the media, the challenges of communicating in a digital world, and why proactive storytelling is essential for faith communities today.
Measles Is Back. And a Lot More People Are at Risk
Contrary to statements by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., outbreaks of this deadly disease are highly unusual. The U.S. declared measles eliminated more than 20 years ago, thanks to an exceptionally safe and effective vaccine. But efforts to undermine confidence in that vaccine have contributed to these recent outbreaks. There are things we can do, individually and collectively, to protect our most vulnerable and hopefully eliminate measles in this country again.
The call to forgive others: a reflection for Lent
With Lent underway, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the importance of forgiving others.
Defense of the Faith: How to Confidently Stand for Christian Beliefs in a Skeptical World
In today’s world, Christianity is often met with skepticism, criticism, and doubt. From university campuses to social media platforms, believers face a growing wave of secularism that challenges their beliefs. This leaves many feeling ill-equipped to defend their faith when confronted with tough questions. Whether you’re speaking with a friend, coworker, or someone you meet online, defending the Christian faith can be an overwhelming task. However, with the right tools and mindset, you can stand confidently and effectively represent your beliefs in a skeptical world.
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