Saturday Lagniappe: 'The Attractional Church Model is Failing' And More

The Attractional Church Model is Failing
In this video, I’ll show you why the attractional church model worked well for a season, but is now mostly outdated and failing. Best yet, I’ll share what you should be doing instead to see your church grow.

Remaking the English Church
A movement in the Church of England away from a broadly Calvinist hegemony started in the 1590s, hit obstacles in the reign of James VI and I, but then flourished during the Personal Rule of Charles I. This movement had several key figures. Some historians have argued it began with subtle shifts in the thought of Richard Hooker and continued in the innovative work of Lancelot Andrewes.

The Burge Report: Do Churchgoers Want More or Less Politics in the Pulpit?
Studies on the content of sermons exist, and most indicate that pastors include some political topics in their sermons. But which topics? Ryan, Thom, and Sam reveal the answer. When asked about politics and the pulpit, few congregants say their pastors often speak about political issues. But is that really the case?

Also See: VOICES: Even if IRS OKs churches to endorse political candidates, should they?

D.C. Church Homeless Ministry Leaders Bewail Federal Takeover
In a statement, a group of faith leaders from various traditions, including Bishop Marian Edgar Budde of Washington and the Very Rev. Randolph Marshall Hollerith of the Washington National Cathedral, condemned both the takeover and the president’s pronouncements.

“Such sweeping language is both inaccurate and dehumanizing, increasing the risk of indiscriminate arrests and the use of excessive force,” they said. “From the White House, the president sees a lawless wasteland. We beg to differ. We see fellow human beings—neighbors, workers, friends, and family—each made in the image of God.”

'There really is no escape': Faith leaders help immigrants face court as ICE arrests rise
Clergy are accompanying immigrants to court appointments to provide comfort and information and, in cases where their worst fears are realized, to pick up the pieces of a shattered American dream.

Rising seas could put Easter Island's moai at risk by 2080, study warns
The findings show waves could reach Ahu Tongariki, the largest ceremonial platform on the island, as early as 2080.

Also See: A country being lost to rising sea levels - documentary; How to move a whole country: Tuvalu’s plan to flee rising sea levels

6 people dead after a truck crashed into a van carrying members of an Amish group in Michigan 

The crash occurred Tuesday afternoon in Tuscola County's Gilford Township, 100 miles (161 kilometers) north of Detroit.

The Amish also live and farm in western Kentucky. This past week a tanker truck crashed into a Amish horse and buggy at an intersection in the town where I live. The horse was injured but not seriously.

One Pentecost Was Enough
Recently, Jesus Culture—a well-known worship group connected to Bethel Church in California—posted a clip on X of a song they released today. The lyrics repeatedly declare, “We need another Pentecost.”

This simple refrain raises an important theological question: Is this how we should think about Pentecost? Should Christians be praying for another one? Or has God already given us what we’re asking for? Before I explain why I believe this line is biblically and theologically misguided, let me offer a few disclaimers.

7 Tips on How to Enjoy Reading the Bible
I’ll never forget the day a young college-aged girl told me recently that she didn’t enjoy reading the Bible and asked if there was an alternative book. At first, I didn’t know what to say. Then I realized she was very serious. “Well … no!” I thought but didn’t say. The best answer is to help Christians learn how to enjoy reading the Bible.

Schools launch 'out of sight' ban to crack down on students' cellphone use
As students return to school, many are finding one rule change that's not to their liking.

Numerous school districts throughout the country are instituting policies prohibiting the use of cellphones and other electronic devices.

Gateway Fellowship Church: Building Community
Sometimes in order to grow larger, one must focus on getting smaller. That’s precisely what the folks at Gateway Fellowship Church in San Antonio do. They encourage everyone within the church family to join a small group that meets throughout the month.

Putting their energy into growing small groups and small group ministries ensures authentic connectivity. When folks share their physical, spiritual and emotional challenges with a few trusted friends, that’s when accountability and vulnerability flourish.