Ordinary Time is a good season to connect our neighbors to our congregants and congregations. According to the Christian calendar, we are in the midst of Ordinary Time — a time when many Christians focus on discipleship and our identity as the sent people of God. This is a good opportunity for congregations to reflect … Continue reading "The Signs of the Times" Read the article
The benefits of team-based learning through community of practice (COP) and team coaching. By Glen A Weber, Central Region Support Rep and Coach The first Hope Avenue training was held in early 2020. Some of us were asked to coach those who went through the training. For many, that was a six-month commitment, but in … Continue reading "Faith, Hope, and Love (FHL) in Action" Read the article
When people are empowered to participate in an area of ministry that is a good fit for them, they often end up bringing something new or doing things better. By Cara Garrity, Development Coordinator Have you ever had the frustrating experience of finding the perfect outfit, but the event gets cancelled? Or maybe you trained … Continue reading "Process of Development: Empower" Read the article
Ordinary Time is a season of participation with Jesus in the building of his church. By Jillian Morrison, Associate Pastor, Glendora, CA GCI President, Greg Williams recently reminded us that Ordinary Time is the season to be attentive to the call of discipleship and disciple making. He encouraged us to use the season to focus … Continue reading "Spiritual Practices for Ordinary Time" Read the article
Ordinary Time enables us to engage the “angels of the hour.” By Tim Sitterley, US Regional Director, West. I was having a conversation with a bright 9-year-old at church the other day. I asked her if she was excited that school would soon be over, and it would be summer vacation. Her smile turned down … Continue reading "The Possibilities of Ordinary" Read the article
I would not be where I am today if others hadn’t been practicing the 4 Es in my life. Allow me to share a personal story of the effectiveness of engaging, equipping, empowering, and encouraging. Because of others speaking life into me, I have had opportunity to serve in various forms of leadership and ministry … Continue reading "The Power of the 4 Es" Read the article
Every family – regardless of what it looks like – should be treated with honor, respect, and love. Many people across the U.S. will be celebrating Father’s Day this month. As a dad, I don’t look forward to Father’s Day for the gifts. Although, I do like the gifts! Rather, I look forward to the … Continue reading "“Normal” Families" Read the article
Psalm 105:1-11, 45b or Psalm 128 • Genesis 29:15-28 • Romans 8:26-39 • Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 This week’s theme is assurance of God’s fidelity. The call to worship Psalm celebrates God’s faithfulness to Israel in his covenant with them. The Old Testament reading from Genesis recounts the story of Jacob’s persistence to marry Rachel despite … Continue reading "Sermon for July 30, 2023 – Proper 12" Read the article
Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 • Genesis 28:10-19a • Romans 8:12-25 • Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 In Ordinary Time, Christ-followers are invited to explore how we internalize, live out, and share our newness in Christ. This cannot be done unless Christians can be confident in the presence and power of God. The theme for this week is God … Continue reading "Sermon for July 23, 2023 – Proper 11" Read the article
Psalm 119:105-112 • Genesis 25:19-34 • Romans 8:1-11 • Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 This week’s theme is life in the Word. The call to worship Psalm expresses confidence in God’s word even during life’s severe afflictions. The Old Testament reading from Genesis recounts the birth and struggle of Jacob and Esau and of Esau selling his … Continue reading "Sermon for July 16, 2023 – Proper 10" Read the article
