As we head into the last two months of 2021 (let that sink in, Twenty Twenty-One!), I am reminded again of the need to keep the familiar, fresh! Soon, we’ll be working our way through Thanksgiving and then Christmas. Plans likely are well underway in your ministry and church situation to be ready for these holidays.…
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We all know that we are called to be a “going” people. The church is to “go” and make disciples who in turn “go” and make disciples. The question for us, then, is how do we create this culture in our local church? Below are some ideas to consider along these lines. Start with you. God…
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Gracias Grazie Merci Thank you! However you want to say it, “thank you,” when truly meant, are some of the most beautiful words in the English language. Other languages say it differently, yet just about every language and people group have some form, manner or word(s) that express gratitude and thanks. October is Pastor Appreciation Month!…
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Through the years I’ve been asked why I work with kids and for kids. I have several reasons but more importantly, I have a sense of urgency. God uniquely designed our brains and a child’s brain is fascinating. Did you know that a person learns faster as a child than they will at any other…
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I used to love to watch sports on tv. It was a great way to shift my brain into neutral, get away from the pressures of the day and relax. However, over the last few years, agendas off the field replaced action on the field and it kind of sapped my desire to watch anymore.…
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At least once a year your church will find itself hosting one or more International Workers (IWs) for anywhere from three days to a week. What’s the best way to steward these times? That answer will vary from church to church, but below are a handful of thoughts and ideas that have been gathered over…
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One of the challenges I hear of repeatedly is how can churches keep (or get) young adults involved. Here’s three things that young leaders are looking for in your church. They want to be involved where interested, make a significant impact, and they want to be included in the leadership conversation. Involved. Younger leaders thrive when given the opportunity to serve or…
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“Miss Mel, see the problem is I really want to believe God is real but I’m just not sure he’s real. COVID has been so hard for me, I haven’t been able to go to church and I just am not sure God is actually real anymore. What should I do?” On day 1 of…
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LIFE Conference 2022 is less than one year away! While that may seem like a long way down the road, it’s critical to have a good plan for pulling off a successful LIFE trip with your students. I asked Pastor Harry Owczarek, Youth Point Person for the RMD and Associate Pastor at Faith Alliance Church in Sidney,…
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The Dog Days of Summer have been upon us. Many areas of our district have been suffering with drought-like conditions. I hear reports of cities (including Billings) putting restrictions on water usage so as to conserve water and/or save overextending equipment needed to replenish fresh water. Recently, I took this picture while traveling to a…
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