Tuesday's Catch: 'Why Church Growth Is a Shockingly Inexact Science' And More

Why Church Growth Is a Shockingly Inexact Science
Have you ever wondered why some mistakes will stop the numerical growth of one church, but not even slow another one down?

ACNA Archbishop Steve Wood suspended after sexual misconduct allegations
Bishop Ray Sutton, who had taken over Wood’s archbishop responsibilities, also announced he would forfeit those commitments and resign as dean of the province.

Also See: ACNA archbishop inhibited

Less than half of American adults say religion is important: study
Despite less than half of Americans ranking religion as an important part of their daily life, America is still more devout when it comes to religion than its economic peers, such as the United Kingdom or Germany, new data from Gallup shows.

Bible sales keep growing, even as many Americans lose their religion
About 18 million Bibles have been sold this year, part of a five-year boom in Bible sales.

Preaching That Connects: Why Delivery Matters More Than You Think
Delivering a sermon is an aspect of preaching that often receives insufficient attention.

Sound Tech: Should You Change the Sound Mix for the Holidays?
Churches often pour tremendous energy into Christmas services, but one question doesn’t get enough attention: should you adjust your holiday sound mix to match the unique demands of the season? Christmas services tend to bring fuller rooms, broader age ranges, and special musical elements. That means your soundboard shouldn’t stay on “business as usual.” The holidays call for thoughtful adjustments that can elevate the worship experience for both newcomers and your regular congregation.

Pros & Cons: Should Your Small Group Meet Through the Holidays?
Church leaders often wrestle with the same question every year: should holiday small groups continue meeting during the busy Christmas season, or is it healthier to take a break? The answer isn’t simple. People’s rhythms shift, schedules tighten, and emotions rise—but community is still deeply needed. Navigating this tension takes pastoral wisdom and a measured approach.

Partnering With Schools for the Holidays
By partnering with schools, your church and children’s ministry program can champion all kids. As ministry leaders, we help develop authentic faith in children and students. But we also work to equip others to best influence and encourage young people.

Because the greatest gift we can give children is the influence of honest and caring adults, we prioritize encouraging those who have the most influence on kids. Other than parents, teachers and school staff spend the most time per year with children.

A Layperson’s Deep Gladness Meets a Literal Deep Hunger
Pastor Kellen Roggenbuck writes about one of many examples that led him to give more attention to the clues God is giving us, often from laity, for next faithful steps in our congregational witness. He encourages the practice of discernment where we acknowledge that God takes the lead while inviting the faithful to join God’s redemptive work.