Worship

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 Educational Programs, Leadership Education at Duke Divinity

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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.