Recently, I was visiting with a layperson in one of our churches who I have had much interaction with over the past twelve years. He had heard we had been re-elected to a fourth four-year term and was expressing “his condolences” as he put it, haha. He went on to say, “I bet you’ll have…
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As I wrap up the busy spring ministry schedule and head into a change of pace for summer, I’m looking forward to processing some of the events, reading, and discussions that I’ve experienced over the last few months. High atop the list of things that are on my mind are the following two ideas. #1…
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The U.S. Department of Labor recently announced new minimum salary levels for exempt employees that could make some ministry workers eligible for overtime. An exempt employee is not subject to the Fair Labor Standards Act’s (FLSA) minimum wage and overtime pay requirements. Exempt employees are usually paid a salary or fee; their salary is predetermined and…
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One of the great things about being part of the Alliance is that we have regular and frequent opportunities to have International Workers present in our churches. In the RMD this typically means several days, and not just for a Sunday. For some of you, this may feel very normal, but for others who have…
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Recently a friend and I were talking about things that mean a lot to us, and why. We were not talking about human beings or the Trinity or anything of that nature, rather we were talking about things that had great meaning to us and the reasons for that. I shared that one of the most meaningful…
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I recently came across a blog posted by Ken Baldes, Vice President /Operations Treasurer and COO for the C&MA. Some of you may have seen this post in Ken’s monthly Alliance Treasure’s update, but I thought it was worth sharing here in case you missed it or do not have access to Ken’s update. The…
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By the time you read this, if Jesus hasn’t returned, we will be less than six months out from the 2024 U.S. Presidential election. I can almost hear the collective groan and dismay at the thought of six months more of political advertising, conversations, and arguments. However, this is a very critical time in the life of our nation…
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A few minutes before an early-morning Sunday worship service a church staff member receives an email from the Pastor. The email says, “I’m praying with some people and need you to send me some gift cards as these people that have needs”. This email should be flagged and confirmed as it may likely be from a…
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Most of us desire excellence and would love to be excellent at what we do. Overall, I think this is a good thing and something that God would praise and encourage us toward. However, like almost everything, there is a dark side to excellence, especially when it comes to church. In short, I believe the…
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The 2024 Rocky Mountain District Conference was held April 8 – 10 at First Alliance Church in Billings, MT. A great time of prayer, encouragement, and inspiration was had by those who attended the gathering. Guest speakers Rev. Phil Stombaugh, Rev. Ken Simon, Rev. Joel Van Hoogen, Dr. Rob Douglas, and Dr. Shawn Kennedy spoke…
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