Missions & Community

Gil Rendle: Do Christians understand the great truth that they hold?

If all Christians care about is organizations, then the church doesn’t have much to offer an individualistic society, says a consultant and author. But what if Christians let go of programming and focused on the pearl of great price?

Matthew Desmond: The will to end poverty

Poverty abolition is about political will and policy choices, and churches can play a crucial role in shifting both, says a leading researcher and author.

Considering the future of the 'Old First Church'

In this two-part series, United Methodist Church Bishop Kenneth H. Carter, Jr. and the Rev. Audrey Warren reflect on First Churches -- those anchor congregations in American downtowns. How can these institutions, which may be rich in tradition but strapped for cash, adapt to a changing society?

Observation, interpretation and intervention are key to revitalizing our big downtown churches

Nearly 50 years ago, the authors of “What’s Ahead for Old First Church” examined the strengths and weaknesses of these anchor institutions. The lessons are surprisingly relevant today.

Kenneth H. Carter Jr. Audrey Warren

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‘Between the Listening and the Telling: How Stories Can Save Us’

In this excerpt from his recent book, a writer and spiritual director describes the transformative power of sacred stories and why they are important to our individual and shared lives.

By Mark Yaconelli Writer

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When friends become family

Beyond friends, more than community, they will know us by our love for one another. A writer reflects on the bonds that bring people together, whether in youth groups, hospital rooms or birthday parties.

By Shannon Hopkins Co-founder & lead cultivator, RootedGood

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The brain, the heart and the soul: How three Catholic churches are merging to create a new type of parish

Three congregations have avoided some of the disruption of a reorganization in Chicago by leaning into their individual identities while forming a new whole.

By Claire Zulkey Journalist

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POWER puts faith into action by organizing communities for justice

A Pennsylvania-based interfaith organization pulls together people from hundreds of congregations to advocate for a safer and more just world.

By Annette John-Hall Journalist

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How churches can work to make the demand for food pantries obsolete

A program in North Carolina is teaching faith leaders to tell the stories of food needs in their communities as they help build a movement toward systemic change.

By David Allen Project manager, Come to the Table

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‘Ask Me for a Blessing (You Know You Need One)’

In this excerpt from her book about her ministry of sidewalk prayer and holy conversations, a New York priest writes about creating space for people to share their spiritual selves.