Worship

Why are Christian congregations important today?

The Forum for Congregational Life will work to facilitate learning among all types of congregations in ways that strengthen and support them.

Alaina Kleinbeck David L. Odom

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How to preach the good news when you are suffering

It’s difficult to preach a message of hope when you feel hopeless. But there are ways to revitalize your preaching while still being honest, says a pastor at Reservoir Church in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

By Lydia Shiu Pastor and co-founder, Progressive Asian American Christians

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Going to church under an oak tree

A visitor finds peace and belonging at New Life Lutheran Church, which worships outdoors in the Texas Hill Country.

By Mónica Tornoé Director of Latino/a Programs for Lifelong Learning, Austin Seminary

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What if preaching were an ongoing conversation?

Rather than a series of “one-offs,” sermons can spark a conversation that fosters communal spiritual continuity in the congregation. Here are seven strategies to do that.

Elizabeth Felicetti David J. Schlafer

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10 ways to avoid inadvertent antisemitism during Holy Week

An expert in Jewish-Christian relations offers guidelines for avoiding the implicit and explicit expression of hatred toward Jews in Easter liturgies and practices.

By Elena Procario-Foley Brother John G. Driscoll Professor of Jewish-Catholic Studies, Iona University

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Declining volunteerism is changing the church experience

Congregations struggle to maintain educational programs without volunteer support.

By Shari Finnell Journalist

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Perspectives from disabled Christians enrich our theology

A scholar’s book emerged from theology done in partnership with disabled Christians.

By Sarah Jean Barton Assistant professor

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Louise Hansen: Animals play a part in our spiritual lives

Including pets in church services can be one way to re-imagine the meaning of fellowship and worship.

Tired of constantly adapting to worship in a pandemic? You’re not alone

Many churches thought that vaccines would pave the way back to normal worship, but new COVID-19 realities are forcing us to keep pivoting.

By Angie Kay Hong Director of Capacity Building Support, Forum for Congregational Life

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How to navigate the chaos of returning to in-person church

With their plans upended on Holy Monday, a pastor and staff at a Michigan church leapt into Holy Week and Easter, revising as they went. He shares three insights he hopes will help others returning to in-person worship.