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The Future of the United Methodist Church
What does the post-pandemic and post-disaffiliation United Methodist Church (UMC) look like? In this episode, Doug Powe and Lovett Weems discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the UMC. They highlight regionalization, the need for structural reform, and changes to the ordination process, while advocating for renewed focus on mission. Watch now, listen to the audio version, and read the in-depth interview.
Church Giving and Worship Attendance Trends
What are the current church giving and worship attendance trends? In this episode, Joe Park unpacks key trends in worship attendance and giving from Horizons Stewardship’s Church Giving and Worship Report: Key Findings from 2024. He emphasizes digital engagement, discipleship, and strategic ministry planning, while highlighting the importance of adaptive leadership, consistent generosity messaging, and authentic relationships. Watch now, listen to the audio version, and read the in-depth interview.
Preaching Easter… Again
How can preachers overcome writers block? William Willimon shares insights for pastors preaching during Holy Week. He discusses his book Changing My Mind, reflecting on how his views on preaching have evolved over five decades of ministry. Willimon shares insights into his sermon-writing process and underscores the necessity of listening—to God, scripture, and people—and encourages preachers to find their voice by learning from others while staying faithful to the gospel. Watch now, listen to the audio version, and read the in-depth interview.
Becoming a Future-Ready Church
What shifts are needed for congregations to be future-ready? In this episode, Adelle Banks reflects on the evolving nature of church hospitality, social justice, technology, and vitality. She highlights innovative approaches that foster belonging, authentic community, and discipleship in a rapidly changing world. Watch now, listen to the audio version, and read the in-depth interview.
Reimagine Worship for All Generations: Children of Faith Virtual Cohort
Free from the Hub for (Re)imagining Ministry of Wesley Theological Seminary DC
Is your congregation seeking to create worship experiences that truly engage children, youth, and adults together? The Children of Faith Virtual Cohort equips church teams with expert coaching, proven frameworks, and $1,000 in funding to design intergenerational worship that nurtures lifelong faith. This free 11-month program (Feb.–Dec. 2026) includes virtual sessions, personalized coaching sessions, and a nationwide community of faith leaders (re)imagining ministry with young people. Your team of 6-8 will learn intergenerational worship design, change theory, and values-based practices—all tailored to your congregation’s unique context.
Registration is limited to 35 church teams and closes Jan. 15, 2026. Learn more and register your team today.
Embracing Relational Discipleship
Connecting with people and helping them grow as disciples requires a new playbook and a new way of leading. Stephen Handy shares how his Nashville church is reaching and discipling people in unchurchy ways by getting to know their neighbors, forging new missional partnerships, and focusing intentionally on relationships. Watch now, listen to the audio version, and read the in-depth interview.
Belong, Believe, Become: Engaging Millennials and Gen Z in Faith
How can congregations faithfully engage in ministry with Millennials and Gen Z? In this episode, Dexter Nutall shares how New Bethel Church engages these generations. The church fosters belonging, social justice, and leadership, creating a welcoming and impactful community for young people. Watch now, listen to the audio version, and read the in-depth interview.
From Weary to Wholehearted: Overcoming Ministry Burnout
How can church leaders overcome burnout? In this episode, Callie Swanlund discusses her book, From Weary to Wholehearted, exploring burnout and its unique challenges. She introduces the SPARK practice—Soma, Preparation, Awe, Retreat, and Kinship—as a holistic approach to overcoming ministry burnout. Watch now, listen to the audio version, and read the in-depth interview.
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