Articles for tag: Leading Through Change

September 20, 2014

By Susan Lawrence Change affects people differently. Some people thrive and others struggle. Change excites some and paralyzes others. But ministry and service are not about us or our comfort level. If we”re volunteering to serve and honor God, we need to yield to him. When we yield, we grow. When we grow, we change, and that change includes our service.Â But when should we change, and how can we change in healthy ways? What questions do we need to ask? WHY ARE YOU SERVING? Ask yourself . . . “¢ What is the purpose of the ministry I”m

April 22, 2007

Barney Wells

Church Life

Land of Opportunity

Newcomers are moving into rural communities, and churches can feel the strain when long-term residents and newcomers collide. This introduction explores agrarian and cosmopolitan contrasts and why understanding them can ease conflict.

April 22, 2007

Barney Wells

Church Leadership Leadership Development

Country Folks and Cosmopolitans

Why do newcomers and long-term rural residents clash in local churches? This article explores agrarian and cosmopolitan differences—from success and planning to meetings and relationships—and offers practical ways leaders can ease friction and encourage healthier church life.

April 22, 2007

Barney Wells

Church & Ministry Community Outreach

Resolving the Tensions

Rural churches can experience tension when newcomers and long-term residents misunderstand each other. This sidebar offers practical ways leaders can build understanding, address demographic change, and help congregations pursue unity and effective outreach.

April 18, 2007

Mark A. Taylor

Church Leadership Leadership Development

Change Is

Tom Ellsworth urges patient, listening-first leadership when guiding change in smaller churches. Mark A. Taylor introduces a book excerpt on helping town and country congregations respond faithfully to demographic shifts and unchosen change.