church conflict
Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to a community in the middle of a culture war
The church at Corinth had many problems. Some simple kindness would have helped.
Can John Wesley's theology keep the Methodists united?
David Field's question is spiritual: How do we hold ourselves in right relation to those with whom we disagree?
by Emily Jones
Take & Read: Practical theology
Mary Clark Moschella recommends the best recently published books in her field.
selected by Mary Clark Moschella
Mistake: Essays by readers
In response to our request for essays on the topic mistake, we received many compelling reflections. Here is a selection.
Pastor in the middle: Dont avoid conflict, avoid triangles
It's up to pastors to remind each other to talk to people instead of about them.
by Doug Bixby
Bonds of affection: How do we love when we disagree?
Of the four kinds of love, affection is most linked to place. It arises among those who share a common life not by choice but by circumstance.
Contested space in church kitchens
If you want to understand the politics of a given church, start with the kitchen: who is in control, and what conflicts arise there?
Buckle up: Congregational change isn’t easy
Change sets off a burst of emotional energy. In working with
congregations, I'm occasionally surprised by the vehemence or the source
of the emotionality, but never by its presence.