The Episcopal Church needs missionaries. If you’re a regular reader of Covenant, you probably know the statistics and you also likely know that the Episcopal Church needs genuine spiritual renewal. To be clear, this renewal can only finally come from the Spirit of God and must be grounded in the clear and courageous proclamation of the gospel in both word and sacrament. Other initiatives apart from this amount to chasing after the wind. For this renewal, we need a new breed of missionaries.
The Northeast is the only region for Southern Baptist growth, analysis shows
Churches in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont grew in the number of congregants by 10%, according to a Lifeway Research analysis of Southern Baptist church statistics.
Beyond the Numbers: Measuring Ministry Impact
For too long, churches have equated ministry success with attendance numbers. Even when things were going well in most churches, numerical data was often one-dimensional without any real evaluative worth. While filling pews is certainly the average church’s goal, especially in a post-COVID-19 lockdown reality, it's a limited metric that doesn't capture the true depth and breadth of a ministry's impact. In an age where authentic connection and transformative experiences are paramount, we need to move beyond the numbers game and explore more meaningful ways to measure the fruitfulness of our ministries.
Faith-based refugee resettlement groups concerned about Trump administration's new plans
In a status report sought by a federal judge, the Trump administration’s lawyers argued the State Department is not required by law to provide reception and placement benefits to refugees when they arrive in the U.S.
5 Tips for Rightsizing Stewardship in Your Church
In the face of declining membership and shifting demographic patterns, many local churches are rightsizing stewardship for long-term sustainability and vibrant ministry. Ken Sloane outlines ways churches can navigate this challenge effectively.
Gluttony and the Holy Spirit’s fruit of self-control
While food is undoubtedly a blessing, it’s important to discuss a topic often overlooked: gluttony. This excessive indulgence goes against the Christian spirit of self-control and can lead to adverse spiritual and physical consequences.
15 Uplifting Worship Songs Every Church Should Sing
Worship is a powerful way for believers to connect with God, express their faith, and uplift one another. Choosing the best church worship songs for a congregation can set the tone for meaningful worship experiences that inspire hearts and deepen faith. Whether a church is looking for contemporary songs or classic hymns, these are 15 of the best church worship songs, uplifting music should be part of any church’s worship repertoire.
Persevere in Prayer: Because No, It’s Not Easy
One of the best ways to introduce people to spiritual practices like prayer, Bible reading, and churchgoing is not by overselling how easy it is to adopt these habits but by reminding people of just how challenging they can be. Spiritual habits are hard. They require effort and discipline.
3 Difficulties in Starting Small Groups After Easter
Alle White shares what he has leearned about launching small groups off Easter and how to sustain 80 percent of those new spring groups in the fall.
4 Vital Aspects of Balanced Small Group Goals
There are four key goals that can keep group ministry in balance. It’s all about doing each one well and in connection with the others.
Cuts to Education Department threaten religious liberty, BJC head warns
The Trump administration’s decision to cut nearly half the U.S. Department of Education workforce is a carless action that will wreak havoc in public schools and erode religious freedom, Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty said.
What Medicaid Cuts Would Mean for Vaccination Rates
The House Republican budget has sparked fears of massive Medicaid cuts, calling into question how public health could be impacted in the short and long term.
In the House Speaker Mike Johnson' own congressional district one in four people receive Medicaid and one in five, SNAP. His constituents are reported to feel that he is turning his back on them and their children. Add to this picture that the Louisiana Department of Health no longer promotes vaccination or advertises the availability of vaccines.Kids on Mission: Not Just Ministry to Kids but Ministry Through Kids
"...one of the most exciting aspects of discipleship is how God involves children in his mission."
3 Critical Components of Rethinking Outreach
Many church outreach efforts lack impact due to marketing-driven approaches, unmet community needs, and internal focus. John Hughes shares the Listen, Look, Lead model that emphasizes relationship-building, understanding local needs, and servant leadership to foster meaningful community engagement.
Image Credit: St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Kansas City Missouri/FaithStreet
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