Mission – Ministry – Life
A few weeks ago I had chance to visit Iquitos, Peru where BMS: World Mission are involved in International Development work with local churches (BMS link here). I had a great time: - We visited a number of local churches, particularly those who run P.E.P.E. preschools that are a fantastic way to help the development... Continue Reading →
This has been doing the rounds whilst I was on holiday. Have a laugh but ask youself some questions.
The internet is full of reports of the riots in English cities over the last few nights, as well as more reports about the dire state of western economies after the US downgrade and the Euro debt crisis. But maybe there is a link here? No doubt the analysis of the riots will point to... Continue Reading →
Last night we hosted a local Churches Together event where we invited our local MP (the Conservative David Rutley) to talk about the ‘Big Society’ and discuss the part that churches play in it. I thought the evening went well. It was a good opportunity for dialogue as well as questions, and I’m sure there... Continue Reading →
My attention was drawn to a blog (HT Rob Petrini ) by 9marks ‘Don’t make your pastor a statistic’ which suggested the majority of US Pastors were not content in their roles: 70% feel underpaid 70% fight depression 50% feel unable to meet the demands of the job 90% work between 55-75 hours a week.... Continue Reading →
With Graham Sparkes moving to Manchester to become the new President of Luther King House the Union is now advertising for his replacement as the head of Faith and Unity. Details here Graham has done a great job and so will be a hard act to follow. But if you can combine a theological reflection,... Continue Reading →
I hesitate to blog about pensions, since I’m no expert, but several people have visited this blog having searched for ‘BU pensions’ so here is my personal take on the subject. 1. It is sad that we have to change the pension scheme but there is no reasonable alternative. Some of the changes are because... Continue Reading →
A blog post caught my eye earlier this week where Rob Petrini suggested the two things a Christian leader needed to remember were process and perception. I’d not come across this before but it got me thinking; and so here are my 5 key elements of church leadership (leaving the question of the relation of ministry... Continue Reading →
Over the last month I’ve listened to more members of the church here preaching than usual and I’ve been struck by the variety and how they preach differently to me. Some of this is down to character, the impact of ministerial formation and the fact that I preach on average once a week. But I... Continue Reading →
The church here mostly uses contemporary songs in worship but I often include some bits of liturgy, such as creeds and confessions, in leading services. It seems to me that liturgy has several benefits. By using a limited range on a regular basis you help the congregation to become familiar with things which can positively... Continue Reading →
Distinct Reflections 