Tuesday, July 29, 2025

Tuesday's Catch: 'The Undeniable, Irresistible Resilience Of The Small Church' And More


The Undeniable, Irresistible Resilience Of The Small Church
To some people, small churches may look frail, weak, and out of touch, but no matter what happens we keep coming back.

How the Neighborhood Church Could Make a Comeback
It’s time for the neighborhood church to make a comeback. The stigma of small churches is fading. Incredible potential is right around the corner. Imagine what could happen if neighborhood churches got healthy on a large scale. The neighborhood church movement is primed for a launch. If this comeback occurred, what might it look like?
What do you think? I have three church a short walking distance from where I live. Not one of these churches is Anglican. The nearest Episcopal church is a three quarters of an hour walk from my home. The nearest Continuing Anglican church is located in a rural area, off the beaten track, a half an hour or longer drive if you know the way and don't get lost looking for it. Its sign faces the road at the entrance to its driveway and is easy to miss. A hedgerow of trees and bushes hide the building from the road. 
Creating welcoming church spaces for families
Through our research and experience with churches and families, we have come to learn how busy families are. When families attend church, they make an intentional choice of how to spend their time together. Churches must keep this in mind as they prepare to engage and support families with children.

Fourth group of religious organizations sues US over ICE raids at churches
“As people of faith, we cannot abide losing the basic right to provide care and compassion,” Bishop Brenda Bos of the ELCA’s Southwest California Synod, a plaintiff in the case, said in a statement.
Also See: New lawsuit again seeks to block ICE raids at churches.
As one born among us
“When an immigrant resides with you, you shall not oppress the immigrant. The immigrant shall be to you as one who was born among you; you shall love the immigrant as yourself.” Those words from Leviticus 19:33-34 belong to a wide stream of welcome that flows throughout the Bible; verses and voices that carry the beautiful news of God’s relentless concern for refugees, asylum seekers and all migrating people and families.

Why American Christians are divided
Our divisions go by names other than Paul or Apollos or Cephas, but Christians remain as (or more) divided than ever.

Facing lawsuit, Trump admin will fund schools
The Trump administration will disburse billions in education funding it has withheld from public school districts for weeks.

From Pews to Pulpit: Developing Ministry Leaders
Developing leaders is essential for the church’s ministry and multiplication. No obstacle should hinder you from starting in your church.

Five Ways to Plagiarize-Proof Your Sermons
Thom and Sam look at the challenging issue of plagiarism in sermons. They suggest five things you can do to avoid this mistake.

Navigating the Opportunities and Pitfalls of Online Bible Study
This digital format offers many compelling benefits. At the same time, it presents a few dangers that churches and believers must navigate with discernment. As more congregations and Christians turn to online Bible study for growth, it’s essential to understand both sides of the equation.

How to Encourage Engagement in Your Small Group
Encouraging involvement takes more than a good curriculum or regular meeting time. It requires intentional leadership, relational investment, and a clear vision for what the group is meant to be. Here are several key ways to boost small group engagement and create a thriving environment where people want to stay connected.

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