Why bringing in young families is not a magic bullet for your congregation
General CBF / Pastoral Care

Why bringing in young families is not a magic bullet for your congregation

By Laura Stephens-Reed I have heard it many times in congregations experiencing stagnation or decline: If we could just bring in more young families… This is an understandable thought. For churches with nurseries that once burst at the seams or with memories of youth choirs that went on tour in the summers, bringing in more … Continue reading

Becoming a hybrid congregation
General CBF / Pastoral Care

Becoming a hybrid congregation

By Laura Stephens-Reed Two years ago the world locked down, seemingly overnight, due to the rapid spread of COVID-19. Many congregations went from having a website and a minimal social media presence, which sometimes included recordings or livestreams of worship, to creating online community wholly through previously utilized and new-to-them media. Churches pivoted again and … Continue reading

Identifying Your Church’s Values and Using Them to Plan
General CBF / Pastoral Care

Identifying Your Church’s Values and Using Them to Plan

By Laura Stephens-Reed I recently interviewed several pastors about their experiences leading congregations during the pandemic. Specifically, I wanted to know how they handled the initial turn to online worship and the million mini-ministry pivots they’ve had to make in the two years since. Unsurprisingly, all these pastors are exhausted. But not all are discouraged. … Continue reading

Why pastoral care is so complicated right now and how church members can make sure they get the care they need.
Pastoral Care

Why pastoral care is so complicated right now and how church members can make sure they get the care they need.

Rev. Laura Stephens-Reed Many pastors go into ministry because they love people. They consider your willingness to trust them with your stories a privilege. They want to hold your hand when you have gotten bad news. They celebrate alongside you at milestone moments. Pastoral care is not just part of ministers’ job descriptions. It is … Continue reading