So, You Think You’re Friendly?

by Tim Dolan I teach a diploma course in lay pastoral ministry at Whitworth University. In one of the sessions, I made an off handed comment to my students that I have never come across a congregation that bills itself as…

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Spiritual Identity and Worship Planning

by P. Alice Rogers Most people who participate in congregational worship services can describe a service they experienced in which they connected with God in a profound way.  When I have asked people to describe such a service, I have heard…

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Leading Toward Hope

by Bob Sitze Before We Start When Alban published my little “field guide to hope,” It’s NOT Too Late, I imagined an audience of clergy leaders who might appreciate some hints about how to find hope in these times. What motivated me…

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Congregations Magazine, Issue 1 2011

Alban members receive a subscription to Congregations, our award-winning magazine. Our mission is to provide clergy and lay leaders with practical, research-based information and ideas for effective ministry as they grapple with an ever-changing environment. Congregations is sent quarterly to…

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The Public Witness of Baptism

Baptism is first and foremost a public event that gives evidence of one’s commitment as a disciple of Jesus Christ. The congregation gathers to support, encourage, affirm, and renew a shared commitment to live in light of the gospel’s claims…

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A Resurrection Story

While looking at the stories of churches that have contemplated the possibility of closing their doors and ending life as they have known it, I am struck with how many of their stories fit into the season of Lent, Holy…

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Susan Beaumont: Determining Ideal Board Size

I’ve always heard that the governing board of a congregation should grow smaller as the church becomes larger. But is that always true? And is there such thing as an ideal size? Effective boards in every size congregation must tend…

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