Through worship and community, Christmas shapes us together. Bermie Dizon, Elder, Glendora, California, U.S. When we think of Christmas, our thoughts may drift to a day filled with family, gifts, and the warmth of celebration. But Christmas extends far beyond a single day. This twelve-day season is a celebration of the life-changing truth that Christ … Continue reading "Communal Christmas Formation" Read the article
The intersection of mission and money in budgeting supports a church’s commitment to living out its vision. By Cara Garrity, Development Coordinator, Lynn, Massachusetts, U.S. It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Budget season! It can feel challenging to talk about church finances and budgets, yet it is a critical aspect of strategic ministry … Continue reading "Money Follows Values" Read the article
The anticipation, hope, and love of Advent unite us all. By Matthew Sianidis, Hope Avenue Champion, Mooroolbark, Melbourne, Australia If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, my experience of the Advent and Christmas seasons is different than your experience. I live in Australia and these worship seasons occur in summer. It’s hot, and the days … Continue reading "The Avenues Focused on Advent and Christmas" Read the article
Dear Pastors, Hope Avenue Champions, and Worship Leaders, As we look ahead to the liturgical year of 2024-2025, I am pleased to share the upcoming pericopes that will guide our worship and preaching throughout the year. You can access the pericopes here, Year C 2024- 2025. In partnership with our Media Team, we are excited … Continue reading "RCL Resources for 2025" Read the article
Here are some Advent ideas for your congregation/fellowship group. By Phillip Hopwood, Elder Emeritus, Australia Celebration and worship are at the heart of communal spiritual formation. Advent marks the beginning of our worship calendar, setting us off on the journey once again, providing a season of opportunity to join together in learning about and responding … Continue reading "Ready for an ADVENTure?" Read the article
Most of our fights are not physical. By Rick Shallenberger, Editor Several years ago, two friends and I were walking home from a restaurant talking and laughing as we crossed the street. We barely noticed the young men heading in the opposite direction. We rounded a corner and suddenly my friend James let out a … Continue reading "Learning to Fight the Good Fight" Read the article
Nuts and bolts of the Hope Avenue By Linda Rex, Elder Our journey in GCI towards Healthy Church includes a deeper understanding of our hope in Christ. Our Hope Avenue team ensures that our Sunday services provide a warm welcome, fellowship, worship, and inspired preaching, which refresh us with the hope of Jesus. Markers of … Continue reading "Celebrating in Hope" Read the article
October is Pastor Appreciation Month, and we want to acknowledge that our pastors are reflections of Jesus Christ. By Audie Santibanez, Pastor and National Director, Philippines We want to take time to share our appreciation for our pastors. Thank you for all you do that we see, and thank you for all you do that … Continue reading "A Big Thank You to Our Pastors" Read the article
Feedback loops create a healthy rhythm of feedback, reflection, and action within church teams. Learn how to build these vital channels and see your team thrive. Download this month’s Church Hack: https://resources.gci.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/2024-CH9-Sept-2024.pdf Read the article
What does a healthy Faith Avenue look like? By Linda Rex, Elder As GCI moves toward healthy church, one of the areas we seek to grow in is that of faith. We want to grow up in Christ and draw closer to God. We want to draw closer to one another and connect with our … Continue reading "Our Life of Faith" Read the article
