ministrystaffingsearch.org BLOG

As we walk away from the Old Year, we have time to reflect upon our ministry experiences and (most) all of us make new promises for the New Year. If you could tell us one event that shaped your ministry experience in 2005, what would the story be? Tell us and share your story, so we may all learn.

If you wish not to reveal your name, you always have the opportunity to post your story anonymously on our Blog.

May all of you and your family have a "HAPPY NEW YEAR"!

    

_______________________

As I was recently in a 'circle' of pastors, the discussion centered around "how churches and their events have to compete against secular events."

Many smaller churches (120 members or so) today struggle especially with their youth groups, because often their youth are required to be regular attendees at extra curricular school events (sports, band, etc)

So, one of my colleagues was ready to send out a letter to his congregation members in which he explained the importance of regular church attendance . . . especially of the youth, etc. and he argued in his letter that parents have the responsibility to guide their children on a journey of faith.

As he presented the letter to his board for approval he was told that the letter was too pointing, that it may agitate congregation members and that a letter like that would sound like as if parents who decided against events at the church are labeled as bad parents.

Needless to say, he was frustrated, because he felt as he did nothing more then to remind people of faith to be faithful to their faith community.

I know that some of you may have to offer some comments about this very subject, because you may have a similar experience or maybe you can offer a solution?

    

_______________________

What is up with Christmas?

For the past two or three weeks I have listened to hot debates on radio talk shows and television shows how a Christmas greeting should be received by customers of department stores.
Should we be politically correct and receive a :"Happy Holiday" or should we demand a : "Merry Christmas" from department store clerks? I don't want to offend anyone, but may I just say that this is the Christian proclaimed day Jesus was born. If you disagree with the event, fact, or feel offended then please don't say it. Very simple! As a department store or a corporate citizen you have the right to tell your employees what to say and what not to say, but it seems very odd to me that you always pick on Christians.

    

_______________________