For years there has been a perception that people have stayed away from church because “the church is always asking for money.” This has led many churches to feel like money is a taboo subject – reserving that uncomfortable conversation for a Sunday in the fall (if at all) and then put it back on […]

Me / Us / the World Living Inside God’s Great Story An interactive online event featuring conference presenters James Finley, Barbara Holmes, Jacqui Lewis, Brian McLaren, Richard Rohr, and Mirabai Starr. In this time of great unknowing, how do we expand our sense of self to include love, healing, and forgiveness—not just for ourselves and […]

A distinguished historian, academic and occasional evangelist I know was hushed by his stunned wife after he said to a friend he was visiting in the hospital, “I hope you don’t die.” A sentiment delivered sincerely but oh-so-awkwardly. Expressing care to someone in need – whether within the community of faith or beyond—may seem the […]

This course is open to anyone who would like to become more comfortable praying in public. The course will help participants grow in confidence and skill in public prayer and enrich your personal prayer life. The course may be used as the required ‘Leading Prayer’ course to become a Certified Lay Speaker. Register for this […]

Do you long to reach new people with the love and good news of Jesus Christ — on brand new mission fields? Most of us have learned how to make the most of Facebook and YouTube in our churches, but what about using other platforms like Twitch, TikTok, and Marco Polo to meet and invite […]

Grief can be a lonely place, and those who care for persons who are grieving often find themselves at a loss. Helping Others Grow Through Their Grieving will explore how persons who work with grieving friends or family can guide them to grow during this difficult time. The three-week course will share a book study […]

Rich in imagery, story, and emotion, the world of country music is a space where many turn to grieve, celebrate, endure, and even pray. Hank, Loretta and Johnny are just a few examples of how country music helps form the faith of so many people. Country Music and the Christian Faith is a course for […]

What is the core of Christian faith? Is it reasonable for modern people? In ten inspiring lessons, the well-known biblical scholar and Anglican bishop N. T. Wright offers a fresh presentation of the timeless truths of Christianity. Lessons expand on the themes of Wright’s acclaimed book Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense and are appropriate for established […]

A Christian at any age is a role model. Perhaps this is most true in later adulthood. One of the many ways this is true is that older adults have experienced loss: loss of loved ones, loss of independence; some may even feel a loss of purpose. During such a “dry” season, older adults can […]

All of us wish our congregations were more inspired to move in new directions. Olu Brown, as pastor of one of the fastest growing United Methodist Churches in America, is synonymous with moving and growing congregations. He will be with us September 28 to share his thoughts on ways to get your congregation moving.Olu is […]

Join Keith Sexton and Jacob Dye as we present the Creation Care team’s regenerative agriculture toolbox. Whether you’ve never heard of regenerative agriculture or you’re already engaged in the work, the toolbox will help you take the next step in restoring our planet’s health. Register for this webinar

You're invited to Leadership Institute 2021 for inspiration, practical ministry tools and proven strategies to strengthen your church and your own leadership. Register for this event