Podcasts about small churches

Many Christians attend church. Far fewer become disciples.In this classic sermon, Pastor Wayman Mitchell opens 1 Corinthians 12 to show God's design for a productive church. Every believer has a place. Every ministry matters. Every act of service contributes to the mission of reaching souls.Rather than building celebrity Christians, God is building a body where each member supplies what the others need. Whether your role is visible or behind the scenes, your faithfulness has eternal significance.Chapters0:00 Introduction & Crusade Report1:20 The Church as One Body3:00 Celebrity Christianity vs Character6:20 Every Member Matters9:10 The Spectator Mentality12:00 Small Churches, Big Purpose15:20 Why You Need a Local Church17:45 How Disciples Are Actually Made20:00 The Power of Helps Ministry24:20 Four Needs of Every Healthy Christian29:45 God Is Building His Church33:00 Altar CallShow NotesALL PROCEEDS GO TO WORLD EVANGELISMLocate a CFM Church near you: https://cfmmap.orgWe need five-star reviews! Tell the world what you think about this podcast at:• Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3vy1s5b• Podchaser: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/taking-the-land-cfm-sermon-pod-43369v

TMC Program Staff Adam Mixon and Adam Borneman continue their conversation with the Rev. Sherrad Hayes (Union Baptist Church, West Point, GA) about the disruption of the Gospel, learning not to see efficiency as the goal, and the importance of fostering genuine encounters with the risen Christ.Episode Transcript.

Dale Sellers and Joseph Bennett talk with Lynne Roberts from RightNow Media about how small and mid-size churches can resource families, strengthen small groups, train volunteers with built-in accountability, and care for pastors' souls through curated conferences and practical leader tools.Lynne Roberts serves on the Customer Success team as a Senior Account Consultant at RightNow Media. She works with churches, associations, and networks across the globe. Her primary role is to train ministry leaders to maximize the RightNow Media platform within their local church. Lynne has served at RightNow Media for 9 years and lives in Johns Creek, Georgia, with her husband and two young daughters. They are active members of Perimeter Church in Johns Creek.Pastors, many of you know that we have partnered with RightNow Media – the world's largest streaming library of Bible studies and discipleship content designed specifically to encourage you and your family in your walk with the Lord. RightNow Media has content from over 400 Christian publishers, tens of thousands of Bible studies, conferences, training sessions, kid's cartoons, and much more. As a pastor partnered with 95Network, you are receiving FREE personal access to this resource!Click the following link to sign up for your free personal access to this amazing resource https://app.rightnowmedia.org/join/95networkThere are 3 new tools on RightNow Media for you as a pastor: Pastors Plus, Webinars, and the PastorsHub.This gift is meant for you to use personally and with your immediate family. Please know that your user account cannot be shared or given away to your church. However, because you are a valued part of our family here at 95Network, your church qualifies for a significant discount to use RightNow Media to equip your families, resource your small groups, and develop your leaders within your local church. If this resource is a blessing to you and your family, imagine how impactful it could be for your entire church!How do I set up my personal account?To create your free personal account through 95Network, click here.If you're interested in Pastors+ or a RightNow Media subscription for your church, please contact our representative at RightNow Media, Lynne Roberts, at Lynne@rightnowmedia.org. She will go over pricing and the discount you'll receive because of your partnership with 95Network.Show Notes: https://95network.org/95podcast-340-summary-rightnow-media-for-small-churches-free-tools-for-pastors-volunteers-and-families-with-lynne-robertsw-lynne-roberts/Support the show

What does healthy worship look like in a rural church? In this episode, Dr. Kyle Bueermann joins us to unpack the tension between live and recorded worship and how rural churches can thrive regardless of resources. We offer practical tools to evaluate your worship ministry with three key markers: solid, simple, and singable. Whether you're […]

Show NotesMountainview ChurchJeremy's WebsiteNorthern Roads by Jeremy NortonThe Yukon BoysJeremy's InstagramThe Pastorate's City MeetupsEpisode DescriptionIn today's conversation, Jason sits down with Jeremy Norton, lead pastor of Mountainview Church in Whitehorse, Yukon. Jeremy's story is one of patience and faithful presence in a part of Canada that many people have never seen firsthand. From southern Ontario to Alaska, Alberta, and eventually the Yukon, Jeremy reflects on the road that led him to serve Canada's north and the deep sense of calling that kept drawing him there.Jason and Jeremy talk about the realities of pastoral ministry in Canada's smaller and more remote contexts. Jeremy shares what it has meant to pastor in a place marked by cultural diversity, geographic isolation, and deep spiritual need, and how those realities have shaped his approach to leadership, preaching, and life in the church. He also reflects on the unique burdens many pastors carry in smaller churches and under-resourced communities, along with the creativity, resilience, and dependence on God those settings can draw out.The conversation also explores the ways Jeremy's life in the North has shaped him personally. Through hunting, fishing, and subsistence living Jeremy is uniquely attuned to God's provision through creation and he shares about what it means to receive life with dependence and gratitude. Jason and Jeremy reflect on how life close to the land can deepen faith, and why a more grounded, embodied way of living may have something important to offer in an age marked by distraction and disembodiment.In this episode you'll hear:Jeremy's journey to Whitehorse and his call to pastoral ministry in the Yukon,What ministry in a smaller, remote, and diverse context can teach us about pastoring,Why Jeremy carries a burden for under-resourced pastors and smaller churches across Canada,How hunting, fishing, and subsistence living have shaped his faith and spirituality,What faithful leadership can look like outside the world of scale, platform, and visibility,Why embodied Christian community may matter even more in an increasingly digital world.PartnersSpecial thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for making this episode possible. We invite you to explore their ⁠Bible Course⁠ to help your church grow in Scripture engagement. We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and ⁠give⁠ towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.

While big cities often dominate attention and resources, it is the small towns and rural communities where congregations are disappearing fastest and where the church's presence is most at risk. Thom and Sam explore why revitalizing and supporting small churches is essential for the future of Christian witness and how these congregations uniquely embody relational, community-anchoring ministry that larger models simply cannot replicate. The post Why Small Churches Matter More Than Ever appeared first on Church Answers.

As we wrap up 2025, we're looking at the conversations that truly landed with small churches - the episodes and quotes that sparked response, resonance, and even pushback. Topics like decline, pressure, money, conflict, and culture change weren't just popular; they named real life. In this episode, we explore what that tells us. And why honesty mattered more than neat solutions.You'll hear:What this year's most-downloaded episodes and most-shared posts reveal for all of usWhy honest conversations drew people in, even when they were uncomfortableThe unexpected hope running through some tough topicsA grounded way to close the year and look ahead with more peace and hope than everGet $20 off your first month of the Small Church Network! (Hit the monthly payment option to redeem): www.clc.thrivecart.com/small-church-networkJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"

Money conversations in small churches get tense for reasons that go way deeper than dollars - fear, pressure, old stories, and unspoken roles all show up at the table. In this episode, we talk honestly about why finances can feel so emotional and how clearer, healthier conversations bring the room back together. It's real, relatable, and the kind of clarity that lets everyone breathe again.You'll learn:Why money in a church is never “just numbers” - it's identity, trust, and responsibilityHow fear makes financial conversations smaller, quieter, or more reactiveThe everyday ways power can shape decisions without anyone noticingWhy avoiding money talk creates more anxiety, not lessHow simple, mission-first communication brings peace, connection, and honesty back into the roomJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"

Big budgets and full-time tech teams may work for megachurches, but most small churches have to get creative. The good news? Some of the most effective church digital tools out ... Read More

If your church feels “too old” or “too small” to reach young families, this episode is packed with simple, practical ideas you can try this week. We're talking about how small churches can connect with young families—not by doing more, but by showing up differently. It's not about flashy programs or keeping up with trends. It's about presence, warmth, and creating spaces where tired parents feel seen, supported, and safe. Because maybe your steady, faithful little church is exactly what they need right now.In this episode, we talk about:Why waiting for young families to “wander in” doesn't work anymoreWhere to actually find families in your community and how to connect with no strings attachedHow to welcome families once they walk through the doorWhy small, older churches might be the most relevant ones of allJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"

What if being a small church isn't a weakness, but a strength?In this episode of FrontStage BackStage, host Jason Daye talks with Brandon O'Brien, director of global thought leadership for Redeemer City to City and author of The Strategically Small Church. Together, they explore how the typical size of most churches, which may be smaller than you think, connects with the story of the early church and what that means for ministry now.Instead of seeing size as a liability, Brandon helps us recognize the surprising strengths of small churches and how they can thrive in their communities.We discuss:Why the average church is small—and why that mattersHow biblical stories of the early church challenge our view of growthThe unique blessings smaller churches bring to their people and neighborhoodsHow to flip perceived limitations into ministry assetsEncouragement for pastors who feel pressured to “grow bigger”If you're leading a small church, simply want to understand the blessings of being “right-sized” for your mission context, or have ever wondered how small churches can thrive in a culture obsessed with size, this conversation will give you hope, fresh perspective, and practical wisdom for leading effectively.Dig deeper into this conversation: Find the free Weekly Toolkit, including the Ministry Leaders Growth Guide, all resource links, and more, at http://PastorServe.org/networkSome key takeaways from this conversation:Brandon O'Brien on the importance of faithfulness over numbers in ministry: "Size is not a biblical indicator of ministry success."Brandon O'Brien on the significance of knowing your unique calling: "Who are we uniquely equipped to reach that nobody else is reaching?"Brandon O'Brien on the importance of authenticity in building trust: "Authenticity and sincerity are more appealing than people often think."----------------Looking to dig more deeply into this topic and conversation? FrontStage BackStage is much more than another church leadership show, it is a complete resource to help you and your ministry leaders grow. Every week we go the extra mile and create a free toolkit so you and your ministry team can dive deeper into the topic that is discussed.Visit http://PastorServe.org/network to find the Weekly Toolkit, including the Ministry Leaders Growth Guide. Our team pulls key insights and quotes from every conversation with our guests. We also create engaging questions for you and your team to consider and process, providing space for you to reflect on how each episode's topic relates to your unique church context. Use these questions in your staff meetings, or other settings, to guide your conversation as you invest in the growth of your ministry leaders. Love well, live well, & lead well Complimentary Coaching Session for Pastors http://PastorServe.org/freesession Follow PastorServe LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | FacebookConnect with Jason Daye LinkedIn | Instagram...

You don't need a title to change the culture of your church. You're already carrying influence—whether anyone names it or not. In this Lead Well replay, we'll talk about how emotional health, spiritual maturity, and everyday presence shift the room around us—and why that matters more than chasing status or hustling harder.What you'll hear in this episode:Why influence isn't about titles, but about how you show upThe link between emotional health and the culture women create in small churchesHow to recognize the impact you're already making (without burning out)A freer, more intentional way to carry your voice and presenceGet the Lead Well Conference Replays here: www.smallchurchsummits.comJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" > www.smallchurchsummits.com/Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

Smaller churches have a unique edge on social media — one that actually becomes more powerful the smaller your church is. It's a feature that can completely transform the way you approach social. And here's the kicker: bigger churches don't really have access to it.   ============================= Table of Contents: ============================= 0:00 - Intro 1:22 - The State of Church Social Media 10:32 - How To Reach Your People 19:15 - More Post Strategies   IMPORTANT LINKS - DOWNLOAD the “Add to Favorites” card: https://prochur.ch/3Mc9963  - Why Your Church's Instagram Stories Flop: https://youtu.be/z_VfjR0WxaA - The Busy Pastor's Guide To Instagram Stories: https://youtu.be/e4gYhPwOyJA - 20 Church Social Media Ideas You've Never Tried: https://youtu.be/ZBeCkcIlzPA - Steal These 15 Church Social Media Posts For Summer: https://youtu.be/y8QiCkGFDFo - The 2025 Church Social Media Calendar: https://youtu.be/dy9J92P5Xjo - Steal These Viral Hooks: Church Social Media Edition: https://youtu.be/ncBP4cUcY0E   THE 167 NEWSLETTER

Summary: In this episode, Dr. Jeffery D. Skinner explores the often unspoken bias against small churches and their leaders within church systems. He discusses how visibility bias, resource limitations, and perception issues contribute to the marginalization of small church pastors. Dr. Skinner emphasizes the need to redefine leadership pipelines, highlight the stories of faithful leaders in small congregations, and revalue bivocational ministry as a model of engagement. He concludes by urging the church to honor faithfulness over size in leadership.TakeawaysSmall churches often lead to small leaders due to systemic biases.Pastors of larger churches are more visible and have more opportunities.Bivocational pastors face unique challenges that limit their visibility.The church must redefine leadership pipelines to include small church pastors.Faithfulness, innovation, and spiritual depth should be prioritized over attendance numbers.Stories of small church pastors doing impactful work need to be told.Bivocational ministry can be a model of community engagement.God values faithfulness over numerical success in leadership.The church must stop equating leadership with the size of the congregation.Every leader, regardless of church size, has a role in God's kingdom.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/echoes-through-eternity-with-dr-jeffery-skinner--5523198/support.Echoes Through Eternity Guiding church planters and pastors to plant seeds of prayer, holiness, and courage that outlast a lifetime. contact drjefferydskinner@protonmail.com

Women have often been told to be strong, hold it together, and do it all for everyone else. But the truth? That version of “strength” is quietly breaking us — and it's breaking our small churches too. In this episode, we name the lie, call out the pressure, and talk about a better way to live and serve.What you'll hear in this episode:Why the “do it all” mindset isn't holy at allHow invisible labor is crushing women in small churchesThe hidden cost of always being “the strong one”Why burnout isn't a failure, but a warning signWhat strength looks like when it finally stops breaking you  - lighter, freer, and actually livableGet your FREE ticket for the Lead Well for Women in Small Churches Conference: www.smallchurchsummits.comJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"

“Churches in North America face an uncertain future,” writes Joseph Lear. “Seventy percent of churches have an average weekly attendance of under 100 people, which means that should nearly three-quarters of the churches in America lose a few families, they'd face a financial, volunteer, and leadership crisis.”  “God is not done with the small church,” he writes. “The kingdom of God is still present, which means there's a path forward for renewal. It's not going to come with marketing campaigns and managerial ingenuity. It's going to come when small congregations get back to the basics of worshipping in Spirit and truth.” In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I talk with Lear about what he calls “slow burn revival.” I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Joseph Lear is pastor of theology and preaching at Resurrection Assembly of God in Iowa City, and director of theology and global church ministries at Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri. He is author of Resurrecting Worship: A Pentecostal Liturgy for Slow Burn Revival, published by Cascade Books. ————— This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by My Healthy Church, distributors of the Ignite Parenting Conversation Cards. Strengthen your family's relationships with God and each other with these easy-to-use Conversation Cards. Each card is uniquely designed with a question, faith builder statement, and a Bible verse to spark meaningful conversations that cultivate an open and nurturing environment in your home. For more information about the Ignite Parenting Conversation Cards visit MyHealthyChurch.com.

 A whites-only community has launched in Arkansas under the legal guise of a “private membership association.” The founders claim it's about preserving culture, but Skye and Phil aren't buying it. Then, Brent Leatherwood, head of the Southern Baptist Convention's public policy arm, has resigned after years of pressure from hardline conservatives. What does his departure reveal about the denomination's political realignment? And, this week's guest is Brandon O'Brien, author of The Strategically Small Church. As American Christianity grapples with shrinking attendance and fading influence, O'Brien offers a compelling vision for why small congregations might be not just inevitable, but essential. Also Phil learns way too much about penguin poop.   Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/135810167/   0:00 - Show Starts   3:30 - Theme Song   3:50 - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST at checkout.   4:45 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/HOLYPOST to receive 50% off your first order   6:15 - Penguin Poop Saves the World?   15:50 - Whites-Only Community in Arkansas?   28:47 - SBC Commission President Steps Down!   43:48 - Sponsor - Blueland - Get up to 25% off your first order by going to https://www.Blueland.com/HOLYPOST   44:55 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   46:05 - Sponsor - Church at the Crossroads - How should churches respond to the crisis in Gaza? Join a conference to break the silence. Go to https://www.churchatthecrossroads.com and use code HOLYPOST for 20% off!   47:21 - Interview   51:09 - Appetite for Small Churches?   59:00 - Beholden to Budget   1:09:15 - Unanxious   1:20:46 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: All White Community in Arkansas: https://news.sky.com/story/inside-the-whites-only-settlement-in-arkansas-the-group-building-a-fortress-for-the-white-race-13399875   Brent Leatherwood Steps Down:  https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/07/erlc-brent-leatherwood-resign-sbc-southern-baptist-politics/   Other Resources: The Strategically Small Church: Intimate, Authentic, and Effective by Brandon J. O'Brien: https://a.co/d/fgdjXcQ   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

In this episode of The Small Church Ministry Podcast, Laurie names something many small churches deal with—but haven't had the words for: ministry silos. You know when two ministries plan events on the same night—and no one realizes it? Or you hear about something great after it already happened? That's a silo—and it's more common than we think. We'll talk about why silos form, how they quietly hurt small churches, and—best of all—how to start breaking them down without adding more to your plate.In this episode, you'll hear:1. Signs your church might be stuck in silo-mode2. Why silos are especially harmful in smaller churches3. How collaboration can bring momentum and support4. Practical ways to start building bridges5. One simple conversation that can spark real changeJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"

Karl Vaters interviews Desmond Barrett about how small churches can do a better job at reaching, welcoming, and keeping guests.Desmond is the author of Helping Small Churches Win Guests: Preparing to Increase Attendance, which is a short, but very practical book that pastors will find great benefit in.Karl and Desmond talk about:How to reimagine the church facility from the parking lot to the pewWhy sharing updates about facility improvements is attractive to guestsWhy so many pastors and church leaders resist doing what needs to be doneWhy “we just need to attract young families” is never the answerThe good news that new Christians are not looking for programs, they're wanting to live on missionLinks:Helping Small Churches Win Guests: Preparing to Increase AttendanceRevitalizing the Declining Church with Dr. Desmond Barrett (podcast)Desmond's Amazon Author PageLibby App Bonus video5 Options When a Church Property is Too Big for the Congregation, with Desmond BarrettKarl Vaters talks with Desmond Barrett, the author of Helping Small Churches Win Guests: Preparing to Increase Attendance, about a subject that is a challenge for a growing number of congregations. What can you do when a church facility that was built to hold hundreds of people has just a handful or worshipers left?The five options they discuss are:Do NothingShare the PropertyRent the PropertySell the PropertyRecreate the PropertyLinks: Helping Small Churches Win Guests: Preparing to Increase AttendanceTo get Bonus Content every week, click here to become a Financial Partner, or here to subscribe to the Free Weekly Newsletter.

In this powerful episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast, host Laurie Graham sits down with Melissa MacDonald to explore the critical role of recognizing and connecting with hurting kids in small church settings. Melissa shares her personal experiences as a foster parent, after-school program director, and ministry leader, offering practical insights on how to love, support, and disciple children from challenging backgrounds. Learn how to shift your ministry mindset from lesson completion to heart connection, and discover why every child matters - regardless of church size or resources. Perfect for volunteers, ministry leaders, and anyone passionate about making a difference in children's lives.Connect with Melissa J. MacDonald:www.melissajmacdonald.comGet your free ticket to the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference:www.smallchurchsummits.comJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" > www.smallchurchsummits.com/kidmin2025Support the showFollow Us:Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministryCreative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministrySmall Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

Laurie Graham and Cheri Kulhawick share tips for small churches organizing large community events, including ...The importance of early planningBuilding a diverse teamBefining a clear purposeBeing flexible when things don't go as expectedCheri also shares a candid story about pivoting after an event had more supplies than attendees. This episode is full of practical wisdom and encouragement for small churches wanting to make a big impact.3 Core Values For A Successful EventJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"

In this episode of In All Things, Dean sits down with Steve Burton to discuss his journey to Selma, Alabama, and the profound lessons he has learned in ministry along the way. Steve shares how he and his church have sought to engage with their community, not just as a place of worship but as an active presence responding to the unique needs of their neighbors. Together, Dean and Steve explore the challenges and joys of cross-cultural ministry, the importance of truly listening to a community's needs, and how small churches can make a lasting impact by embracing where God has placed them. Steve's story is one of faithfulness, humility, and a deep commitment to the gospel in action. Tune in for a conversation that will encourage and challenge you to see your community with fresh eyes and to consider how your church can be a light in the place God has called you to serve. To learn more about Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, click here.

In the first episode of our new Small Churches series, host Dean Weaver sits down with Suzanne Zampella, a seasoned transitional pastor and advocate for small church ministry. Suzanne shares her wealth of experience, offering insights into the unique challenges small churches face, including limited resources and maintaining healthy congregational dynamics. The conversation explores the vital role of community engagement and mission in the life of a small church, emphasizing how these congregations can make a significant impact despite their size. Suzanne also unpacks the concept of transitional ministry, explaining how it serves as a crucial tool for churches navigating periods of change. For more information or to connect with Suzanne, you can reach her through her church's website: http://fpcdexter.org/ Tune in to this inspiring conversation and discover how God is at work in small but mighty ways through His church!

Introduction of Rev. Bill Crawford – Season 11 - Episode #1 Series: The Small Church (A Pew Talk Conversation)   Episode Synopsis: In this episode of The E.A.R. Podcast, Brandon Queen welcomes Rev. Bill Crawford, affectionately known as “Reverend Redfish,” for a deep dive into the essential yet often overlooked world of small churches. Launching the Pew Talk series on Small Churches, this conversation unpacks the unique strengths, challenges, and the vital role these close-knit communities play in today's faith landscape. With over 20 years in pastoral ministry, Rev. Crawford shares his personal journey and the impactful mission of small churches and addresses common misconceptions about their place in the Kingdom. Whether you are part of a small church or simply curious, this episode will open your eyes to the resilience and purpose of these powerful faith communities.   Calls to Action: Please visit my website at https://www.podpage.com/the-ear-podcast/. You can also find my podcast on any platform, such as Apple Podcast, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please follow our YouTube channel @theEARpodcast19, like, subscribe, and share our channel with your friends and family. You can also find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/earfullpodcast.   Note: This podcast is part of the Christian Podcast Community. You can click here to access more episodes and similar podcasts. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elderqueen/support --- Support this podcast by subscribing to our Patreon page! CLICK HERE SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Patreon | TikTok | X --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/elderqueen/support

Religious institutions are no exception to the ongoing labor shortage in Vermont and nationwide. Churches are having a hard time finding pastors as more clergy are retiring and dying than going into the ministry. Synagogues and mosques are being impacted as well.

In this introductory episode of our Accessibility & Inclusion Series, we're diving into how small churches can be amazing spaces of inclusion and belonging.Join us as we chat with church leaders and members who are passionate about making their communities welcoming for everyone, no matter their abilities or differences. We'll share real stories, helpful tips, and creative ideas that can inspire your church to embrace accessibility and foster a sense of belonging for all. In this episode you'll hear:The difference between accessibility, inclusion, and belonging (& why it matters)How we sometimes unintentionally participate in “othering” at the same time that we're trying to be accommodatingA few questions to ponder and start productive conversations in your church to build greater awareness, understanding, and effective next steps toward building community for allJoin our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"

Sermon by Rollin Mitchell God Loves Small Churches Dayton IHC 2013 www.ihconvention.com

Summary In this episode of the Stoked Up Podcast, hosts Alan Stoddard and Kenneth Priest engage with Karl Vaters, a seasoned pastor and advocate for small churches. The conversation explores the unique challenges and opportunities faced by small church pastors, including misconceptions about growth, the importance of discipleship, and the need for cultural understanding within congregations. Vaters emphasizes that small churches can have a significant impact despite their size and encourages pastors to focus on relationships and community engagement. He also discusses the importance of redefining success in ministry and the value of connecting with other pastors for support and encouragement. Find Karl online at www.karlvaters.com

Listen in as the top leading experts in small church ministry, Laurie Acker & Karl Vaters, discuss the church growth movement, post-Covid impact, and the future of smaller congregations.Connect with Karl Vaters: www.karlvaters.comJoin our free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"

As many of you know, we've been looking for a church home since moving to a different state. We have visited several churches, and in this podcast, we share some of our impressions after visiting a small, rural church and a large urban church.

Karl Vaters talks with Laurie Acker about the changing face of small church ministry, especially as it relates to recruiting, training, and relying on the volunteers who are so essential in helping small churches survive and thrive in a changing world. Laurie runs SmallChurchMinistry.com, an online ministry that provides resources and support for volunteers and ministry leaders in smaller churches. Ministries like this are so important because they help provide practical help for the volunteers who do small-church ministry without any prior training. Links from this episode: Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry  Small Church Network & Academy: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/ Email: Laurie@smallchurchministry.com Book: One Thing Remains Bonus Content Karl Vaters talks with Laurie Acker about Using a Planning Party to Jumpstart Youth/Kids Ministry. She suggests who should be involved, when to hold the meeting, and more. Karl and Laurie also talk about how healthy small churches are uniquely suited to meet the needs of youth and kids in an environment that values relationships and connection over programs and professionalism. To get Bonus Content every week, click here to become a Financial Partner, or here to subscribe to the Free Weekly Newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you think you need more volunteers or more kids, we want you to think again.According to children's ministry expert and professional curriculum writer, Natalie Frisk, with smaller numbers come amazing opportunities. After growing up in a small church and then serving as a children's leader on a large church staff for years, Natalie and her husband find themselves now raising their child in a smaller church - by choice. In this episode, she shares what she loves about small churches and the unique ministry opportunities they hold. Listen in for encouragement, wisdom, and tips to embrace the true gift of small church ministry.Connect with Natalie Frisk:https://nataliefrisk.com/https://www.facebook.com/natalie.j.friskhttps://twitter.com/NatalieFriskRaising Disciples: How to Make Faith Matter for Our KidsRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"

The big item on the docket will be confessionality, but with the Same-Sex Marriage question settled confessionality gets a lot more complex. Conservative churches will want to attract other conservative evangelicals and there are potentially many confessional issues where they will not be policing for the sake of local church growth.   Paul Vander Klay clips channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX0jIcadtoxELSwehCh5QTg Bridges of Meaning Discord https://discord.gg/e6eWBydz https://www.meetup.com/sacramento-estuary/ My Substack https://paulvanderklay.substack.com/ Estuary Hub Link https://www.estuaryhub.com/ If you want to schedule a one-on-one conversation check here. https://calendly.com/paulvanderklay/one2one There is a video version of this podcast on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/paulvanderklay To listen to this on ITunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/paul-vanderklays-podcast/id1394314333  If you need the RSS feed for your podcast player https://paulvanderklay.podbean.com/feed/  All Amazon links here are part of the Amazon Affiliate Program. Amazon pays me a small commission at no additional cost to you if you buy through one of the product links here. This is is one (free to you) way to support my videos.  https://paypal.me/paulvanderklay Blockchain backup on Lbry https://odysee.com/@paulvanderklay https://www.patreon.com/paulvanderklay Paul's Church Content at Living Stones Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh7bdktIALZ9Nq41oVCvW-A To support Paul's work by supporting his church give here. https://tithe.ly/give?c=2160640  

God calls us to serve in so many different ministry contexts. Sometimes we'll be called to serve in large spaces with hundreds of people, and sometimes God calls us into small environments with less than 10. Church planting wife Wendy Ortiz shares her experiences serving in small churches both in the US and Puerto Rico. She explains the joys and challenges of small environments, including God's work in her heart regarding letting go of control.  SHOW NOTES Small churches allow a family-like atmosphere as well as an unearthing of gifts that may be overlooked in larger churches.  Don't fall into the comparison trap. God will decide how big He wants your church to be. Focus on being a faithful steward.  Encourage your husband, celebrate every victory, and be intentional about connecting with other church planting wives.  QUOTES “What would I say to myself? God is going to do what He wants to do. Don’t worry. Just be obedient, do what He calls you to do and help your husband and don’t be an obstacle for him.” -Wendy Ortiz “We are a family, so we know each other very well. We may have misunderstandings because our sin always goes out, but it’s just us. It’s just us. We work things together as a family and we can be the church. It’s very personal. It’s very straightforward. The discipleship is more personal as well.” -Wendy Ortiz CONNECT Connect with Wendy Instagram Connect with Christine Facebook // Instagram // Books Visit How to Thrive as a Pastor’s Wife to access Christine's resources for ministry wives like you! Connect with NAMB Facebook // Instagram

This is the second of two very special episodes that we're doing in back-to-back weeks instead of our usual bi-weekly schedule. This episode features the message I preached in January 2024, on the day our church honored Shelley and me for our 31 years of serving the church on staff. In this message, I talked about what we're doing next, including why God has called us to the ministry of Helping Small Churches Thrive. It includes some of the key points we teach to Small Church Pastors, like: The Theory of the Long Tail The Grasshopper Myth The Pastoral Prime Mandate and more.  It also includes how people can support us in this new era of ministry. We will no longer be receiving a salary from the church, but we're raising all our own funds to be missionaries to the small churches in need. But the churches that need the help the most can afford it the least. To become a financial supporter, please visit https://karlvaters.com/support/. The message ends with one of the most touching stories I've ever heard about a Small Church Pastor who, like so many others, is one of the unsung heroes of the faith. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"We hold our breath and hope that the ceasefire will hold." About today's speaker: The Rev'd Leyla King is an Episcopal priest & Arabic teacher who serves as rector of Thankful Memorial Episcopal Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee. She is also a member of the Small Churches, Big Impact Collective.   Reverberation of the Spirit is a daily podcast for Advent designed to help us rediscover the beauty of waiting, as we prepare for the coming of Christ. Listen every day in Advent in the "Sermons from Trinity Cathedral Portland" podcast feed, trinitycathpdx.podbean.com.

Stan & the guys discuss change in the small church world. Support the showBe sure to follow 6:14 Ministries: facebook.com/614rebuildInstagram: @614rebuildTwitter: @614rebuild Learn more at 614ministries.org

Great leaders can emerge from any context, large or small. We will provide practical steps to grow existing leaders and identify future leaders. We will also discuss how to assess an individual's leadership aptitude so that you can set them up for success.We hope that this teaching left you more encouraged and equipped today. Ministers Fellowship International exists to help leaders build healthy, strong, impacting churches and to do so in a way that makes for a healthy leader.

If you're involved in ministry to kids, join today's conversation with small church ministry leader, Sara Vojtaske, as she shares her most important tips to leading well.Sara shares 5 critical elements not only to keep your passion alive but to increase your impact too. Listen in to hear Sarah's wisdom including:The importance of simplifyingWays to maintain excellence, including showing up preparedIdeas to create incredible atmosphere even in a multi-purpose spaceTips to build great relationships with children, parents, and volunteersThe critical need for training and who to includeConnect with Sara Vojtaske:https://www.joelsvision.com/Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"

Today, I'm talking to Glenn Neargarder.  Glenn became a Christian in 1988, spent time in the ministry, administration and went on to work at Bank of America.  In trying to help his home church with their administration he uncovered what is often the weakest part of many churches, having a coherent and complete administrative system.  He started a “passion project” to serve small churches by doing all the administrative functions for them at extremely low cost.  Glenn will be a speaker at the Climb Conference in Dallas this year.  If you've ever been frustrated with your church financial situation and are looking for a low-cost, one-stop solution, you need to listen to what Glenn is talking about. More about Glenn: Glenn became a disciple of Jesus in 1988 as part of the University of Cincinnati campus ministry. Immediately after graduation in 1992 he and his wife, Vicki, moved to Chicago to work in the full time ministry. After 3 years in the full time ministry (Chicago and Champaign, IL) they moved to Los Angeles. Glenn worked in church administration for the International Church of Christ at the Los Angeles head quarters for four years. He then went back into the full time ministry for three more years as part of the North region of the Los Angeles Church of Christ. Glenn then spent 14 years working for Bank of America in mortgage servicing operations. During his last 7 years he held an SVP of Operations position with offices across the country and internationally managing over 1,000 employees. Glenn has been working as a business improvement and transformation consultant in the pharmaceutical industry since 2016. Glenn's experience with local and international church administration, full time ministry as well as his experience with managing large operations domestically and internationally in a corporate environment have allowed him to develop skills in Human Resources, financial management, legal, policies and procedures, process improvement, performance management, state and federal employment laws, and technology and systems.  How to Reach Glenn: ChurchAdm.Com General Support  / Main Office support@churchadm.com (919) 229-9315 Ramon (Mon) Eusebio (Manager) Mon@churchadm.com (919) 229-9315 Glenn Neargarder (CEO/Owner) Glenn@churchadm.com (919) 229-9521 How to Support The Rob Skinner Podcast Your tax-deductible gift will help me get my next mission team sent off.  Click the link here:   https://tucsoncoc.breezechms.com/give/online?fund_id=1728794

Unveiling the Absurd: we expose the ironic reasons people foolishly abandon their church home while empowering listeners to discern when it is truly necessary.  As pastors, we have a lot of experience in seeing church conflict and congregants leave for various reasons.  We also share our personal stories of when we needed to leave a church.  In this episode:- Discover the signs that indicate it may be time to leave your church and find guidance on making this difficult decision.- Learn practical strategies for addressing sin within church leadership and navigating the complexities of this sensitive issue.- Explore the dumb reasons people sometimes use as excuses to leave a church and gain insight into how to avoid making the same mistakes.- Understand the importance of open communication and conflict resolution within your church community, and discover strategies for fostering healthy dialogue.- Embrace change and personal growth within your church, as we delve into the value of evolving as individuals and as a community.Connect with us!Join our Group on Facebook with the podcast community https://www.facebook.com/groups/eyesonjesuspodcast/Email questions or show topic ideas to discerningdad@outlook.comBe sure to connect with the hosts! For more information on Drew Barker:Follow Drew on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drewsbarker/For more information on Tim Ferrara:Get all his links in one place- to his social media, all 3 of his books, and more https://linktr.ee/discerning_dadCheck out his website!  https://discerning-dad.com/The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Reasons to Leave a Church, 00:00:25 - Introduction and Background, 00:01:05 - The "GOAT" Sermon, 00:04:22 - Personal Updates, 00:06:16 - Reasons for Leaving Churches, 00:08:55 - Example of a Dumb Reason, 00:13:11 - Finding a Church that Aligns with Your Calling, 00:14:27 - Dumb Reason #1: Interpersonal Conflict, 00:16:04 - Importance of Communication and Unity, 00:17:37 - Churches in Conflict, 00:20:10 - Dumb Reason #2: Personal Preferences, 00:26:56 - The Importance of Talking about Money in the Church, 00:28:19 - Church Size and Change, 00:29:41 - The Value of Small Churches, 00:30:09 - Embracing Change in the Church, 00:33:54 - Facing Sin and Accountability, 00:39:53 - Is Jesus enough?, 00:40:15 - Church abuse and transparency, 00:41:27 - Church leaders and transparency, 00:43:22 - Leaving a church for valid reasons, 00:45:32 - Maturing in faith and seeking deeper food,

In this episode, we discuss the impact that small churches can make in global missions. Tim Hood shares about the strengths that small churches can bring to Sending. He also addresses the challenges and barriers that small churches may experience and offers practical suggestions these churches can apply. [et_social_share]

Danielle's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imdanielledavis/Danielle's FREE resource: https://hey.churchfluence.com/captionsJoin the FREE masterclass (click here)

Less kids doesn't mean less stress, and it also doesn't mean less prep. For children's leaders and volunteers in smaller churches, the extra challenges of mixed-age classes, unpredictable numbers, and fewer volunteers add to the load. Listen in to this encouraging conversation with Tyler Bates from Amazing Kids. He shares where your time can make the most impact on children's lives including:The benefit of pastoring kids in a smaller church environmentWhy birthday calls & handwritten cards should move up on your priority listHow making a difference in the life of one is absolutely worth your timeConnect with Tyler:https://amazing.kids/https://www.instagram.com/amazingkidscurriculum/Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"

If you've met one single, you have NOT met them all. Listen in for a transparent conversation about singles and small churches, and how we may unintentionally be pushing away the very people God is calling us to reach. Ministry Leader Sabrina McDonald shares from personal experience that:A one-size-fits-all singles group isn't the best plan for ministryOur terminology matters a lot (listen in for some common mistakes)Asking the uncomfortable questions is often the catalyst to deeper ministry impactConnect with Sabrina McDonald: https://wordinseason.org/Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"

Send in your question via text to 1-800-485-3139. Question #1 (09:31): This is why our pews are empty. We've accepted the counterfeit online substitute for church. It's destroying the local church for a "stay in bed and watch a livestream" type experience. Question #2 (17:12): Should I or should I not use music in the background of sermon shorts? Question #3 (22:52): I was curious about the new language on the Nucleus website, "The premium church website builder for small & mid-size churches." I don't remember that delineation before of "small & mid-size" being applied to Nucleus and its capabilities. I'm just curious about that decision and what, if any reason, would be for a large church (I guess what would you consider a "large" church?) not to use Nucleus. Question #4 (34:00): In honour of the Toronto Raptors latest draft pick "Gradey Dick," what was your cringiest outfit you've ever worn?

Bestselling author, Thom Rainer, returns to the podcast to discuss the three biggest shifts he's seeing in the church right now: the death of denominations, the stunning decline in peoples' commitment to evangelism and the promising hope for small churches through digital evangelism. Get more on this episode by going to https://careynieuwhof.com/episode513.