A few weeks ago, the Stated Clerk (Dr. Bryan Chapell, national administrator) of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA, the denomination where I have my credentials), sat for an interview where he thoughtlessly slandered several individuals. He didn’t intend to do it. But his actions and words did reflect what was going in his mindContinue reading “Presbyterian Polity and Bryan Chapell’s “Naughty” List”
Category Archives: Church
Leaning In Episode 2: Recapturing Pastoral Ministry
Here is episode 2 of Leaning. I talk about recapturing pastoral ministry.
Leaning In Episode 1: Self-Deception and the Purpose of this Podcast
Here is episode 1 of Leaning. I talk about a core problem in Christian ministry in America and how we can find out way to a healthier place.
Leaders v. Pastors
If you have read this blog before, you know we are seeking to foster health and sustainability in Christian ministry. I have been mulling on the subject of how the emphasis on organizational leadership has been crowding out pastoral ministry in Western churches for some time. Here is my first foray… and Concord Solutions’ firstContinue reading “Leaders v. Pastors”
Spiritual Abuse in the Church: My Journey to Healing and Forgiveness
The author describes a distressing period in his life when he witnessed unethical behavior by a church leader. Despite facing challenges, he emphasizes the importance of standing up against injustice and finding healing through love and forgiveness. This profound experience has reshaped his faith and commitment to loving boldly.
Safe Harbor Project
Safe Harbor Project:Big News from Daryl Madi and the Madi Family When I left my last ministry calling, I was sure God was calling me away, but I was unsure of what He was calling me to. So over the past few months, we have been resting from ministry, focusing on our family and prayingContinue reading “Safe Harbor Project”
Are You Tired… Afraid? A Word of Encouragement
Who out there is tired? Tired of virtual school… tired of wearing masks and hand sanitizer… tired of not seeing family and friends… tired of the subtle angst of losing your job or getting COVID? Maybe you have descended into those lows already. Many of you have leadership roles on top of all that… asContinue reading “Are You Tired… Afraid? A Word of Encouragement”
American Evangelicals, We Have a Problem!
“Houston, we have a problem.” One of the most understated comments in American history was made by Jim Lovell as he reported to NASA that his space craft was I trouble. I believe the Evangelical Church in America also has a serious problem that threatens the very witness and mission of the church. It’s notContinue reading “American Evangelicals, We Have a Problem!”
Missing Church at Christmastime
This past Sunday was the first Sunday in Advent, or what we more often refer to as Christmastime. So… right on cue… the church I have been attending online had us sing Christmas carols. Specifically, we sang Hark the Herald Angels Sing. What I am about to admit may seem shocking (even terrible) for aContinue reading “Missing Church at Christmastime”
Why Faith Communities Should Get Involved with the Problem of Addiction
I got the call on day in the summer of 2012: “He took his own life.” I was talking with someone who attended the church I pastored. She was a friend (I will call her Mary). Our children went to school together. She was a kind and compassionate person. That’s what led Mary and herContinue reading “Why Faith Communities Should Get Involved with the Problem of Addiction”