Big news! I am in a new role at a new place (more about that here). The first week serving a new church (especially when it is a very different size from other churches I have served) feels a lot like the part of an eye exam where the doctor finds the glasses strength that … Continue reading
Category Archives: New to Ministry
Youth Ministry 101: Free Webinar
This Thursday evening, August 9, I will lead a FREE webinar through Practical Resources for Churches. Register to view live or receive the recording via email. Recordings of my Prayground Activities and Youth Ministry: 15 Minutes at a time webinars are also available. Youth Ministry 101: No two days are alike in youth ministry! This … Continue reading
Free 2018-2019 Planning Calendar
Click here to download the totally FREE 2018-2019-lesson-planner-blank. Over the years, I’ve found it helpful to have the ability to see an entire season of lessons for all ages laid out in once place. Created in Microsoft Word, please feel free to adapt it for your needs. I’d love to see how it works for … Continue reading
Resources for Pastor & Staff Changes
Part III of the Collected Works series is an important one in this season of ministry transitions. You may have noticed I haven’t been blogging as frequently as usual. In addition to finishing up seminary and preparing for ordination interviews, I’m co-leading the planning of a conference youth ministry workshop and college searching with my … Continue reading
Welcome U: What churches can learn from college admissions
My oldest is a high school junior, which means we’ve been logging lots of miles on the road visiting colleges. I’ve discovered that some schools welcome prospective students in the way I remember from my own experience: watch a video, take a tour, offer a few minutes to ask current students questions. These visits are … Continue reading
To Do List for an (almost) Rocket Scientist
Recently a colleague remarked that Christian education isn’t rocket science. Hmm. I’ve never been a rocket scientist. But, I did spend two years in chemical engineering school and I can tell you that while there may be less math, children’s and youth ministry is still wonderfully challenging. I was pleased to see a recent article … Continue reading
Letter to Parents Before Communion Sunday
Every Communion Sunday, I see God’s grace at work. My eyes are teary. My heart is full. Source: Letter to Parents Before Communion Sunday Continue reading
