Church in the Making
Carol Howard Merritt reflects on church reinvention
Shared space, shared vision
In Asheville, one church was dying while another was being born.
Three things to know before starting a church
New churches and the people supporting them need to understand the commitment they're making.
Taking risks to heal hurt
It's a church—and a yoga studio, psychotherapist's office, and Reiki healing space.
New rituals for new realities
People achieve different milestones, in different orders. Can churches celebrate this?
The stewardship opportunity
There's a budget shortfall. What's the congregation going to do?
Dying to leave a legacy
What happens when a congregation's ministry is something we can't see without a rearview mirror?
Short-term but vital
Perhaps when we plant congregations, we should plan on starting two: one that lasts and one that doesn't.
Varieties of new churches
Two churches in my town offer a contrast in style, substance, and mission. We both love Jesus and long to love our neighbors.
Generation to generation
Congregations often cater to those who show up and pay the bills. But as Jesus said, we need new wineskins to hold new wine.
The grace of small things
New church communities have sprung up across the nation. They differ in many ways, but most have one thing in common: their small size.
Two or three at the gym
New communities spring up at coffeehouses, on Habitat for Humanity worksites, or at 5k races. What makes any of them a church?
Leading like Lydia
Do women plant churches differently than men? Do they use different methods or a different style?
Harvest in due time
Sustainability is certainly a goal for most church plants. But have denominations set up a model that is sustainable for pastors?
Called together
The night Rebecca and Luke Sumner met, they discussed church planting. They ended up planting a church together.
Knee-deep in renewal
Anyone can see the rippling effects of God's kingdom in buildings, movements, and practices. I couldn't comprehend it all without Diana Butler Bass.
Back at the burning bush
The people at Friendship Church make creative use of art. They have also learned to be creative as they form their community and shape their narratives.