December 23, 2013
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Glad to Meet You ...
For the next several months I will participate with you as readers/writers in talking about the work of elders. We will consider questions and observations around situations you may face.
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January 13, 2014
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Elders and Members Keeping in Contact
One reason for leaving mentioned more than once was: so many members don't feel warmly part of the fellowship of the congregation. You as elders can play a helpful role in that respect.
December 23, 2013
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When Churches Lose Members
The CRC is losing members. Last summer's synod has talked about it. We have tried to find the causes. We wondered what to do about it. Church-growth creates its own momentum. Growth creates an atmosphere of growth. Is the opposite also true?
January 21, 2014
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So, You Have Been Nominated to Be an Elder…
As elders, all of us remember the very early stages of being an elder. Even experienced elders will not always feel comfortable with the office and even fewer would think of themselves as 'veterans'...
January 28, 2014
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Elders Keeping Close Contact with Their Pastor(s)
Here is a truism...: Pastors and elders must regularly discuss both the quality of the worship services and the pastors' sermons.
February 4, 2014
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The Lonely Among You
Then the righteous will answer him, “Lord, when did we see you a stranger and invited you in ...? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you …?” (Matthew 25)
February 11, 2014
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Making a Sick Visit
Yes, you knew that you should make that sick-visit but you postponed it. But think about this... it could be your best half hour.
February 17, 2014
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Elders are Discreet People
When you become an elder (or a deacon or a minister) you will experience a change at least in one respect: you will become more aware of the need to be discreet.
February 19, 2014
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Why Every Elder Needs a Deacon
"... no office-bearer shall lord it over another office-bearer." -- Article 85 of the CRC Church Order. Elders and Deacons belong together, their offices complement each other, their tasks, though distinct, have the same purpose: building the Church of Christ.
March 3, 2014
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A Pretty Good Council Meeting
When thinking back of your last Council meeting, could you say, “Yes, that was a pretty good meeting” …?
March 10, 2014
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Creating A Healthy Atmosphere in Your Church
No two churches are alike. One important reason is that churches have their own personality. And that is mostly determined by the unique atmosphere that prevails in churches.
April 14, 2014
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The Voice of The Church in Society
What is the role of the church to excercise influence and power in society?
April 23, 2014
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Tending Our Friendships
Friendships never stand alone. Friendship is a special room in the bigger house of relationships.
April 30, 2014
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A Pastoral Call: Three Steps
This helpful process will keep you focused on serving the person you are visiting.
May 13, 2014
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"Five Streams" Revisited
How will the CRC's new Five Streams vision impact your congregation?
May 21, 2014
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Enthusiasm
I wish I had more of it: enthusiasm. It's an interesting word. The '-thu' part is derived from the Greek 'theos' -- God. And “en” is the simple 'in'. So, more of God in us. En-Theos! Enthusiasm!
May 27, 2014
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Storytelling as Relationship Building
Stories have a strange fascination for most of us. A story well-told is a bit of an extension of our individual lives. We can relate to the story teller as well as to the people in the story. The reverse is also true. The story-teller feels affirmed in our attentive ear.
June 2, 2014
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Elders, How Well do You Know Your Members?
Personally knowing our members gives us insight into the most important question.
June 3, 2014
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Synod 1910 Had it Just Right!
Synod 1910 made some imaginative recommendations to the local church regarding missions. And today, more than a century later, we may take a lesson.
June 17, 2014
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Ministry to the Sorrowing
Ministry to the sorrowing is a worthy part of an elder's calling. But you may well think of it as a difficult task. Here are some thoughts you may consider helpful.
June 25, 2014
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The Amazing Phenomenon of People Talking
Have you watched people having an animated conversation? Every event related with gusto leads to reciting similar events. Observations, remarks, assertions, and comments outdo each other and are plowed under by further talking.
June 30, 2014
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Activating the Inactive
Inactive members deprive themselves of spiritual blessings, the more since their contact with the congregation will likely be minimal. And churches need their service. What can churches do about this sad reality?
July 29, 2014
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If Only . . .
Two short words, but behind them a world of regret.
July 15, 2014
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Youth
The ideal is that our young people will feel that they are known, loved and deeply cared for. Allow me ask a few questions about the young people of your congregation...
July 23, 2014
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Internet Culture
What guidance do children and youth need from parents and the church in navigating the internet?