Of Donkeys, Elephants, and Other Animals
The U.S. election is bringing deep anxiety, incivility, and fear to U.S. congregations. How do leaders navigate this moment?
Whether you're a new or experienced elder, let's use this place to compare notes, share experiences, and ask questions about being an elder in the CRC.
Here you'll find resources posted by individuals, churches, and ministries. Add comments, give a 'thumbs up', or post your own. Can't find something? Use the chat box to let us know.
The U.S. election is bringing deep anxiety, incivility, and fear to U.S. congregations. How do leaders navigate this moment?
We’ve curated a list of excellent reopening resources for churches to help you navigate both the practical and theological aspects of beginning to gather in person again.
As regions across the US and Canada begin reopening, what leadership challenges are pastors and councils engaging?
Here is a compilation of resources for elders as they try to navigate the Covid-19 environment.
How do you provide spiritual leadership in an environment in which you can't meet with people face to face? Here are some suggestions.
Does your church council talk regularly about the spiritual health of your congregation? Here is a set of twelve devotionals that will lead your elders and deacons to focus on your church's flourishing.
Here's a list of best practices describing how churches can make connections with local community mental health services.
In light of the recent spate of Article 17 terminations, this is an article worth wide dissemination. I see far too many pastors being pushed out far too quickly for often ill-defined reasons.
This annotated bibliography includes many newer materials and resources, while keeping some old standards, such as Mental Health Ministries, Pathways to Promise, and NAMI FaithNet.
This two-page resource from Faith Formation Ministries equips elders to develop spiritual leadership skills, provide pastoral care, and conduct helpful, warm elder visits with church members.
View sample job descriptions for elders and deacons that can be modified to suit the specific needs, priorities and circumstances within your congregation.
The Professing Our Faith toolkit offers practical, creative resources for encouraging a culture of commitment in your church, preparing people to profess their faith, celebration profession of faith in worship, and more.
These ten tips from Faith Formation Ministries will help your congregation create welcoming profession of faith practices and traditions for children, teens, and adults in your church.
Here is the process of recruiting, nominating and selecting elders and deacons used by one particular congregation. Hope this is useful for your congregation!
Most of us have never experienced the trauma of losing a child. And while we may not be able to show empathy towards someone who has lost a child, we can express sympathy.
I was reading a Worship article in the Calvary CRC newsletter (Edina, MN) when the following headline caught my eye: Blessings in Service: Elder and Deacon Stories.
The National Gathering is being held for the purpose of setting direction for the Christian Reformed Church in Canada.
Veterans find understanding and encouragement from other vets. Because they have a shared experience, they can offer unique support in the face of adjustment problems.
The fall season is upon us and some of our readers will serve as Elders. You will have thought about the task ahead, perhaps with some trepidation. Find below a list of helpful hints!
Pornography is a pervasive yet largely unaddressed problem in today’s world, including the church. But, there's help! Check out these resources for leaders addressing pornography.
When life hits us with painful trials, our hearts plead that God tell us why. The Bible teaches there are many reasons God allows suffering. But, like Job, the person suffering might not know why...
This webinar explores various aspects of addiction, recovery, and how the church can be a place of healing for individuals and families impacted by alcoholism and addiction.
Scripture: Acts 2:42-47
2014 has come to an end. Though the days were busy, thoughts multiplied. And so we think...we ponder. Who are we? How shall we live?
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...