Article by Gary Deddo, President of Grace Communion Seminar Even after centuries of debate, Protestantism does not seem to have settled on how best to speak about the connection between faith in God’s grace in Jesus Christ and the life of obedience. All informed biblically grounded Christian teachers recognize that salvation is God’s work and … Continue reading "Law and Grace" Read the article
Many in our society live in anxiety and fear—even fear of God. They are looking for a safe environment whose policy is “Do No Harm.” Would our church be considered a safe space? Here are some things to think about. By Elizabeth Mullins, GC Hickory Love Avenue Champion Outside of our consciousness, each of our … Continue reading "Making Church a Safe Space" Read the article
By Emmanuel Okai, West Africa Regional Director, National Director, Ghana & Church Pastor Akim-Oda, Ghana Like many who grew up in rural sub-Saharan Africa before the 1960s, I experienced various practices in African Traditional Religion similar to the performances of Baal priests during Elijah’s time.[1] I was raised in my maternal grandfather’s village, where shrines, … Continue reading "What is Worship?" Read the article
Many of us around the world have been quarantined in our homes due to Covid-19. We are craving relationship, getting together with family and friends, sharing meals—hospitality. Now is the time to prepare to share this gift with others. By Bob Regazzoli, Pastor, Australia During the recent bushfires in Australia, we heard that some people … Continue reading "The Gift of Hospitality" Read the article
Many seekers and guests will visit your website before setting foot on your facility. Your church’s website is your virtual front door. Having an up to date website is a great way to make a good first impression and communicate who you are and what you believe. The GCI Microsite is a resource we provide … Continue reading "Church Hacks 003 | How to Customize your GCI Microsite" Read the article
GCI Creative Community Best Practices One opportunity we have during this pandemic is to reflect Christ’s love for the world and make decisions with our neighbors in mind. Here are some Best Practices shared in our GCI Creative Community Facebook Page for being the church during these novel circumstances. We hope to share best practices … Continue reading "GCI Creative Community Best Practices" Read the article
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. John 13:34-35 By Elizabeth Mullins, GC Hickory Love Avenue Champion Anthony and I … Continue reading "The Gift of Decentering" Read the article
Whether worship is individual, collective, or in our GCI Worship Calendar, it’s all focused on one thing—Jesus. By Hector Barrero, Pastor Bogota, Columbia “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude … Continue reading "The Focus of Our Worship" Read the article
By Charlotte Rakestraw, GCI Social Media and Graphics Coordinator For almost two years, we have been emphasizing the three Avenues of our Team-Based, Pastor-Led ministry at Grace Communion International. The Love Avenue embodies external outreach; the Faith Avenue encompasses our internal life groups; the Hope Avenue focuses on gathering together as a church through worship … Continue reading "Hope In Three Movements" Read the article
The First Impression Ministry is dedicated to welcoming guests and visitors; engaging to share the love of Christ and create a safe space. The ministry also includes a strategy for getting guest’s information to continually connect back. Watch the video to learn the key elements and best practices of a First Impressions Ministry. Church Hacks … Continue reading "Church Hacks 002 | What is First Impression Ministry?" Read the article
