Congregations Innovation Congregational innovation

Deep Listening: Fondren Apartment Ministry

A 5-minute video by Houston filmmaker Marlon F. Hall offers a glimpse into this innovative ministry, which is based in deep listening, prayer and openness to the Holy Spirit.

Ben Smith, a volunteer with the Fondren Apartment Ministry. *Photo by Mark Mulligan*

Tuesday, April 5, 2016

A partnership rooted in God’s love builds affordable housing in New York City

The Trinity-Rev. William M. James Senior Apartments is a collaboration offering affordable housing with wraparound services for seniors, intentionally including the formerly incarcerated.

By Genine Babakian Journalist

Image link to article: A partnership rooted in God’s love builds affordable housing in New York City

What happens when an ‘Old First Church’ needs to change?

Eight years ago, First United Methodist Church of Miami faced the fact that its history and prestige weren’t going to keep it alive forever. It has found a way to honor its past and grow into the future.

Audrey Warren Kenneth H. Carter Jr.

Image link to article: What happens when an ‘Old First Church’ needs to change?

An underserved neighborhood needed a community center, not another church

After a satellite campus of a large church struggled, a pastor decided to reformat his church into a community center to address needs in his hometown of Blue Island, Illinois.

By Laura Rodríguez

Image link to article: An underserved neighborhood needed a community center, not another church

Long-term adoption of hybrid services represents a major shift from the traditional church model

The pandemic has drastically changed congregational leaders’ attitudes about virtual services, experts say.

By Shari Finnell Journalist

Image link to article: Long-term adoption of hybrid services represents a major shift from the traditional church model

People in the pews: Who’s missing, who’s hiding, who’s comfortable on the couch?

Almost three years after the COVID-19 pandemic began, pastors mourn the faces they no longer see and figure out how to serve those they’ve yet to meet in person.

By Edie Gross Journalist

Image link to article: People in the pews: Who’s missing, who’s hiding, who’s comfortable on the couch?

Pastors were not prepared for the digital demands of the pandemic. What does that teach us about the next crisis?

Of all the new things they were asked to take on during the pandemic, it was technology work and decision making that pastors felt the least prepared for, according to a two-year study from Texas A&M University.

By Heidi A. Campbell Professor, Texas A&M University

Image link to article: Pastors were not prepared for the digital demands of the pandemic. What does that teach us about the next crisis?

Deep Listening: Fondren Apartment Ministry

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