*Conditions may apply The explicit policy of many churches is to proclaim that "All are Welcome!" Which absolutely sounds fantastic. Informally, this has been our approach here at Spirit of Joy! as well. What could be wrong with welcoming everyone? Why would any other welcome statement be … [Read more...]
God is Doing a New Thing
What follows is an adaption of a letter I sent to Spirit of Joy! this week. I think what is said here about the congregation I serve is true of many of our congregations and communities. Beloved At Spirit of Joy! we have had two long years. We socially distanced ourselves thanks to a global … [Read more...]
The Most Important 10 Minutes in Worship
Every week we gather for worship - and surely the church is more than worship, but it is a pretty big part of our life together. Within that time each week, what is the most important part? Often it might depend on who you ask. The musicians and the choir might say the music. The preacher will … [Read more...]
What is Church Growth?
As we enter into - or begin to acknowledge - a new era in the life of the church, words like growing church get tossed around by church leaders. Or maybe you hear about congregational vitality, or congregational health. They are all related, and all often equally undefined. Between my work as a … [Read more...]
