When we first started studying healthy, growing, Evangelical churches around the country one of the things we learned about was Small Groups. The concept was not entirely unheard of in Catholic parishes, as the Renew program, widely used a number of years ago, was based on small group discussion, as a form of adult education. […]
One of the major events that we’re already working on is our first ever Rebuilt Conference, April 16 & 17. Actually it’s not really a first, more like a fourth. Back about five years ago we decided to host a first ever Conference for Catholic churches, such as we had experienced in Evangelical churches. Part […]
Most church leaders I know would love to see their church grow. As a pastor or pastoral leader it is very gratifying to experience growth. At the same time, there is often criticism and complaint directed toward churches that are actually growing. A pastor I know recently commented on a growing “mega-church” in his region […]
This past fall we opened a new sanctuary with seating for 1,000 currently, with the ability to add another 500 seats in the future. We do not want that to be the distant future however. We built because our parish had outgrown our old sanctuary and we want to keep growing. Here are 5 ways […]
I am a big believer in New Year Resolutions. Even the ones I don’t end up keeping are good for at least a few weeks. And the more people I tell the higher the accountability, so once again this year I am blogging my resolutions. Feel free to hold me to them. Read the Bible […]
This year is our 12th at the Maryland State Fair for Christmas Eve. Twelve years ago we decided to make the break, close our church building down entirely and move the whole operation up the road. The move has transformed Christmas Eve: what was a dysfunctional nightmare which no one enjoyed, has become a not-to-be-missed […]
This Advent our message series is focusing on giving and growing in generosity. And in this season and this series we will focus on both. This weekend will bring our annual Missions Weekend, highlighting our partners in Haiti and Kenya, while also supporting our partners in Nigeria. We’re offering the opportunity to sponsor a child […]
With the celebration of Thanksgiving we officially enter the holiday season. I know among churchpeople it’s a liturgical outrage to breathe a word of Christmas until Advent has been given its due. In fact, I know parishes where they won’t even start decorating for Christmas until the afternoon of December 24th. They’re purist and we […]
Immediately the one who received five talents went and traded with them, and made another five. Likewise, the one who received two made another two. Matthew 25:16-17 Look at that first word. “Immediately.” The first two servants immediately do something with the master’s money that benefits the master. They invest the money, doubling it. Knowing that […]
Studies suggest that a first time guest in your church often makes up their mind if they’re ever coming back again in the first ten minutes. So, that means before they’ve heard your music, listened to your message, or met your ministry team they might very well have given you a failing grade. Here are […]
