The Small Church Ministry Podcast

218: Mistake #3: Treating Volunteers Like They’re Volunteers | Church Volunteer Series

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0700

In this episode of Stop Doing This to Volunteers: Top Mistakes Our Churches Are Making, we talk about something subtle but powerful: the way our language and posture shape culture.

When we treat people like “just volunteers,” we reinforce hierarchy instead of partnership, and “helping” instead of ownership.

In this episode, we cover:

How subtle language changes send powerful messages
How hierarchy creeps in without us noticing
Small shifts that move us toward shared ownership

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217: Mistake #2: Making Their Jobs Easier For Them | Church Volunteer Series

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0700

In Stop Doing This to Volunteers: Top Mistakes Our Churches Are Making, this episode looks at a mistake that feels kind - but ends up weakening people and teams over time.

When we over-simplify roles in the name of “helping,” we don’t just remove responsibility - we remove meaning. People don’t stay because a job is easy. They stay because it matters.

In this episode, we cover:

How doing too much for people isn't always helpful
Why easier isn’t the same as healthier
People who feel needed show up with different energy

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216: Mistake #1: Not Asking Them What They’d Rather Be Doing | Church Volunteer Series

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0700

This episode kicks off our Stop Doing This to Volunteers series by naming a simple but overlooked leadership habit: never revisiting where someone serves once they’ve said yes.

We talk about the fear that keeps churches from inviting movement, and the belief many people carry that enjoying their role — or wanting something different — is somehow selfish instead of faithful.

In this episode, we cover:

Why long-term service doesn’t always mean long-term fit
The fear that asking “what would you rather be doing?” will leave you short-handed
Why liking what we do - and wanting something different - doesn’t make us less holy

RESOURCES MENTIONED

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215: The Digital Ministry Your Small Church Is Already Doing (And How to Do It Better) | with Leslie Kons

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0700

Your small church already has a digital ministry - whether you’ve planned for it or not. Through your website, social media, and emails, you’re constantly communicating who you are and what people can expect, sometimes clearly and sometimes unintentionally sending the wrong message.

In this episode, we talk about why that matters more than we think and how small, thoughtful shifts can help your digital presence reflect your heart, not just your information.

In this episode, we talk about:

How churches unintentionally communicate confusion, pressure, or disconnection online
Why your digital presence shapes trust long before someone ever visits in person
What “digital ministry” actually means for small churches (without adding more work)
Simple ways to align your online presence with the experience you want people to have

Connect with Leslie Kons: studiokons.com

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214: Outside the Bubble: Why Our Outreach Isn’t Working & What We’ve Been Missing

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0700

We’re sharing something special this week. Right after our Women’s Ministry for Small Churches Conference, we’re bringing you the opening mainstage session - a conversation that pushes back on the pressure-filled, program-heavy version of outreach many of us were handed.

In this episode, we explore:

Why traditional outreach models often don’t work in small churches
How Jesus-centered outreach starts with people, not programs
What it looks like to live with our communities instead of trying to draw people in
Simple, relational ways to practice outreach without burnout or pressure

Get the replays before Wednesday at midnight! www.smallchurchsummits.com

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213: The Church Women Who Shape Our Faith (Without Ever Holding a Title) | with Traci Mason

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0700

So much of what forms our faith doesn’t happen in programs, events, or official roles. It happens through real women who show up, listen, love, and stay.

In this episode, Traci Mason and I share personal stories of women in our church lives who shaped us in lasting ways without ever being “in charge.”

This is an honest, grateful conversation about influence that’s relational, faithful, and far more impactful than we often realize.

In this episode, we talk about:

The women who shaped our faith through presence, consistency, and care
Why informal, relational influence often forms people more deeply than organized ministry
How small, faithful actions ripple through a church over time
What this kind of influence invites all of us to notice - and become

Connect with Traci Mason:

tracesplace@msn.com

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212: What Women Really Need (And Why Church Programs Keep Missing It) | with Jessica Francavilla

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0700

So much women’s ministry is built on calendars, themes, and events - and yet many women still feel unseen, overwhelmed, or disconnected.

In this episode, Jessica Francavilla and I talk about what it looks like to actually discern what women need in a given season, and why programs alone often miss the deeper spiritual and emotional realities women are carrying.

We share how a small, multi-generational team listened, paid attention, and responded in ways that were more relational, more human, and far more impactful than another event.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

Why well-intentioned programs often miss what women are really walking through
How discernment starts with listening, not planning
What a multi-generational approach reveals that one age group can’t see alone
How presence and responsiveness can reshape ministry without adding more to the calendar

Connect with Jessica Francavilla:

www.cityoffreedom.info

www.livinghopeva.com

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211: What Actually Works in Ministry With Women | with Abigail Doust

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0700

After decades of ministry in small churches — including years as a pastor’s wife — Abigail Doust has learned what truly serves women and what quietly pushes them away.

In this episode, we talk honestly about moving beyond stereotypes, events-for-events’-sake, and one-person leadership, and toward ministry that helps women feel seen, known, and spiritually formed.

This is a grounded, experience-rich conversation about gathering women well, building teams, and creating space for authentic faith to grow.

In this episode, we talk about:

The difference between women’s ministry and a ministry that actually serves women
Why many women quietly avoid church events — and what changes that
How small teams and shared leadership create healthier ministry
What discipleship looks like when we focus on the whole person, not attendance

Connect with Abigail Doust:

equippingforimpact.com

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210: Burnout Isn’t Anyone Else’s Fault (And That’s Actually Good News For the Church)

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 03:00:00 -0700

Burnout doesn’t happen because your pastor failed, your church is unhealthy, or no one stepped up to help. It happens when we believe we have no choice and keep serving under pressure instead of agency.

In this episode, we talk honestly about why burnout isn’t someone else’s fault, why that truth can feel uncomfortable at first, and why it’s also the doorway to real change.

You’ll hear:

The stories that keep us stuck in burnout without realizing it
Why waiting for leadership or circumstances to change rarely brings relief
How agency creates options (even when nothing else changes)
What it looks like to serve faithfully without burning yourself out

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209: Small Churches Got Honest: What 2025 Revealed About Pressure, Hope, & What’s Next

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0700

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 us
Why honest conversations drew people in, even when they were uncomfortable
The unexpected hope running through some tough topics
A grounded way to close the year and look ahead with more peace and hope than ever

Get $20 off your first month of the Small Church Network! (Hit the monthly payment option to redeem): www.clc.thrivecart.com/small-church-network

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208: Rest This Christmas: Jesus Holds Your Church Together (Not Your Year-End Numbers) | Church Finance Series (Part 6)

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0700

This final episode in the finance series is a gentle reminder that the weight of your church’s future was never meant to sit on your shoulders.

We talk about the very real year-end stress small churches feel, how Jesus measures ministry differently than we do, and why rest is an act of faithfulness, not neglect.

If your church feels tired or stretched this month, this conversation will take the pressure down a notch.

Listen in to hear:

Why December pressure feels so personal - and why it isn’t the whole story
How Christmas reframes the way we measure ministry, impact, and “success”
How to lead with calm, grounded presence when everyone feels the tension

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207: When Money Gets Messy: Fear, Power, and the Conversations Small Churches Avoid | Church Finance Series (Part 5)

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0700

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 responsibility
How fear makes financial conversations smaller, quieter, or more reactive
The everyday ways power can shape decisions without anyone noticing
Why avoiding money talk creates more anxiety, not less
How simple, mission-first communication brings peace, connection, and honesty back into the room

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206: Rethinking Your Church Budget: From Scarcity to a Story of Possibility | Church Finance Series (Part 4)

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0700

Most small-church budgets weren’t really created; they just grew over time. Leftovers from last year, assumptions from a decade ago, and line items no one can quite explain anymore.

And when a budget is shaped by nostalgia, fear, or “what we used to do,” it can make a church feel like it’s failing even when it’s not.

In this episode, we explore how to see your budget as a story and how to shift that story from scarcity to possibility.

You’ll learn:

How churches unintentionally build budgets around fear and leftovers
The difference between maintaining the past and investing in what’s alive now
How to make mission-first decisions with what you already have
Simple ways to start a healthier financial culture, even if this year’s budget is already set

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205: Why People Aren’t Giving to Churches (And the Hopeful Shift That Brings Generosity Back) | Church Finance Series (Part 3)

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0700

This episode unpacks one of the most misunderstood issues in small churches: declining giving.

It’s not that people have stopped being generous - generosity is everywhere. The real challenge is that many churches have slowly lost the connection between giving and a visible, meaningful impact.

When we stop assuming stinginess and start rebuilding trust, clarity, and a real mission, generosity has a way of returning naturally.

You’ll learn:

Why generosity isn’t dying (but obligation-based giving is)
The emotional and relational reasons people redirect their giving
How transparency and mission rebuild trust
Practical ways small churches can reconnect giving to real ministry impact

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204: Models That Work: Paid Pastors, Bi-Vocational Leaders, and Fully Volunteer Churches | Church Finance Series (Part 2)

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0700

A large part of a small church budget often goes to paying the pastor. Most small churches assume there’s only one “real” model of leadership - usually the one we’ve always known - and anything different feels like failure, pride, or danger.

But there’s no single “biblical” or “more noble” model here. Healthy, vibrant churches exist in every structure: fully paid, bi-vocational, and completely volunteer-led.

This episode lifts the shame, clears out the judgment, and helps churches learn:

Why there isn’t one “right” model (and why that’s such good news)
How assumptions, pride, and tradition shape our views without us noticing
The strengths + limits of paid, bi-vocational, and volunteer pastor models
Why most tension around leadership positions come from unspoken expectations
How to discern whether it’s time to rethink your model when things feel stretched or scary

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203: Money & Mission: Why Revenue Doesn’t Save the Church | Church Finance Series (Part 1)

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0700

This episode reframes the entire money conversation by separating the Church from the nonprofit structure that houses it.

We name the fear, pressure, and assumptions that swirl around finances - and then clarify why revenue impacts the organization, not the mission.

When we stop confusing the two, financial decisions get calmer, clearer, and more grounded.

You’ll learn:

The difference between the Church and the 501(c)(3) that supports it
Why money isn’t needed to save your church (but it might save your building)
How identifying fear and spiritual pressure around finances is a starting point for clarity
The real cost of trying to raise money to keep the lights on - and how a shift can save your church culture

Check out podcast episode 187: When Your Church Feels Like It’s Dying: What to Do (and What’s Still True)

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202: Do No Harm - Sorting Through Counselors, Coaches & Confusion (and Why It’s Worth the Effort )| with Licensed Therapist Kati Quigley

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0700

Finding the right kind of help shouldn’t feel complicated - but between long waitlists, confusing titles, and church mixed messages about therapy, it often does.

In the final part of the Do No Harm series, Laurie and licensed therapist Kati Quigley talk about what makes finding help so hard, and why it’s still worth the effort.

Together, they unpack the difference between a counselor, coach, and spiritual director, why “biblical counseling” can unintentionally do harm, and how to find affordable, faith-aligned options that actually support healing.

Connect with Kati Quigley:
katiquigleycounseling.org

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201: Do No Harm - What Churches Can Do to Support Real Healing | with Licensed Therapist Kati Quigley

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 03:00:00 -0700

In small churches, we’re often the first people others turn to when life falls apart - whether we’re on staff, leading worship, teaching kids, or serving on the elder board.

In Part Two of the Do No Harm series, Laurie and licensed therapist Kati Quigley talk about what churches can do to help create more emotionally healthy spaces.

This isn’t about becoming counselors, giving advice, or providing solutions. It’s about practicing empathy, allowing people to lean into their own painful places, listening well, and partnering with counselors and professionals we trust.

In this episode:

How small churches can normalize therapy and mental health support
Why awareness of reactions matters (our own and others) in ministry meetings
How to listen better and create safer, judgment-free spaces
The value of clear boundaries and trusted referral lists

Connect with Kati Quigley:
katiquigleycounseling.org

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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200: Do No Harm - The Hidden Damage of Pastoral and Biblical Counseling | with Licensed Therapist Kati Quigley

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0600

When the Church tries to heal what it doesn’t understand, even good intentions can cause real harm.

In this first conversation of the Do No Harm series, Laurie and licensed therapist Kati Quigley talk about the unseen damage that happens when untrained pastoral or biblical counseling takes the place of trauma-informed care.

It’s not about blame; it’s about awareness, wisdom, and protecting the people we’re called to love well.

In this episode:

The difference between spiritual care and clinical therapy
Why quoting Scripture can backfire for trauma survivors
What “do no harm” really looks like in ministry
The emotional fallout when help hurts
First steps toward safer, trauma-informed spiritual care

Connect with Kati Quigley:
katiquigleycounseling.org

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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199: Church Spotlight: A Really Free Market - How One Small Church Is Reaching Its Community | with Ruth A. Popkin

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 02:00:00 -0600

In this Church Spotlight, Ruth A. Popkin shares how her small church started A Really Free Market - a ministry built on listening, not assumptions.

Instead of following trends, they followed people, meeting real needs with dignity and creativity. It’s a story of simple generosity that’s reshaping how small churches think about outreach.

Listen in for:

How to listen to your community before deciding what they “need”
The difference between following people and following trends
What makes A Really Free Market unique (and doable for any church size)
How trust, conversation, and consistency open real doors for ministry

Connect with Ruth A. Popkin:
www.facebook.com/ReallyFreeMarketplace
www.blcin.com/the-really-really-free-market

Check out podcast episode 166: We Added Dignity To A Food Pantry With A Sit-Down Cafe | with Alastair & Nicola Bruch:
www.podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/166-church-spotlight-we-added-dignity-to-a-food/id1583416568?i=1000697609047

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198: Navigating Pastoral Transition Without Losing Your Peace (or Your People)

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0600

When a pastor retires, moves, or suddenly steps away, small churches often feel lost in the in-between. If this is hitting home for you, you’re not alone. Pastoral transitions are on the rise as more pastors retire and fewer step into ministry roles.

In this episode, Laurie talks with Kari Bartkus, who served on her church’s pastoral transition team, about what it really looks like to help your church through a season like this—without panic, burnout, or losing your sense of purpose.

In this episode:

What to focus on when your church is between pastors
How to care for people and keep communication open
Ways to fill the gaps without burning out a few key volunteers
Building trust and teamwork in uncertain seasons

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197: Reaching Young Families In An Older Church: What Small Churches Can Really Offer

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0600

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 anymore
Where to actually find families in your community and how to connect with no strings attached
How to welcome families once they walk through the door
Why small, older churches might be the most relevant ones of all

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196: Say It Louder for the People in the Back! Women, Small Churches, & Culture Change

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0600

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 up
The link between emotional health and the culture women create in small churches
How to recognize the impact you’re already making (without burning out)
A freer, more intentional way to carry your voice and presence

Get the Lead Well Conference Replays here: www.smallchurchsummits.com

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195: "We’ve Always Done It This Way." The Small Church Lie That Keeps Us Stuck | with Ebonie Mukasa

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Tradition can be beautiful — but when “we’ve always done it this way” becomes the default answer, it stops being wisdom and starts being a wall.

In this episode, we talk about why resistant church culture burns women out, silences new ideas, and quietly drives people away. And honestly? It’s costing us more than we realize.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

Why “we’ve always done it this way” feels safe — but slowly kills momentum
How resistant culture silences women’s voices and fresh ideas
The emotional cost of keeping peace instead of naming truth
Why new doesn’t have to mean reckless — it can mean healthier
Hopeful ways to shift culture without losing your mind (or your faith)

Connect with Ebonie Mukasa:
www.eboniemukasa.com

Get your FREE ticket for the Lead Well for Women in Small Churches Conference: www.smallchurchsummits.com

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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194: Pastor. Pastor’s Wife. Volunteer. Leader. Are We Really That Different? | with Kristen Joy Humiston

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In small churches, titles can build invisible walls—like pastors’ wives on one side, “regular” women on the other. Or ministry leaders here, and occasional volunteers over there. But those labels don’t tell the whole story, and they often keep us from the deep, honest community we long for.

In this episode, Kristen Joy Humiston and I share from both sides of the wall, uncovering how much more we have in common than what separates us.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

How titles like “pastor’s wife” or “leader” can unintentionally create distance
Why women in small churches often feel divided (and how to bridge the gap)
Stories from both sides: living with a title and living without one
How shared struggles (loneliness, pressure, expectations) prove we’re not so different after all
What it could look like if we ditched the labels and built friendships that actually last

Connect with Kristen Joy Humiston:
www.kristenjoycoaching.com

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193: The “Strong Woman” Lie That’s Breaking Us In Small Churches | with Dee Bryce

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0600

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 all
How invisible labor is crushing women in small churches
The hidden cost of always being “the strong one”
Why burnout isn’t a failure, but a warning sign
What strength looks like when it finally stops breaking you - lighter, freer, and actually livable

Get your FREE ticket for the Lead Well for Women in Small Churches Conference: www.smallchurchsummits.com

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192: Women, You’re Not Too Emotional (You Might Not Be Emotional Enough) | with Becky Brown

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Women in small churches often feel like we have to hold it all in or keep it together for everyone else. But shutting down emotions doesn’t make us stronger — it cuts us off from one of the main ways God shapes us.

In this episode, Becky Brown and I bust the myth that emotions are a weakness and show why they might be your greatest strength.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

Why “managing” your emotions can backfire — and what to do instead
The surprising connection between emotional growth and spiritual maturity
How women in small churches often feel pressure to “hold it together” — and why it’s healthy to fall apart sometimes
The truth about emotions as signals, not distractions or obstacles
Why your “too much” might actually be exactly what your church needs

Connect with Becky Brown:
When You Feel Like You’re Too Much: Why Your Emotions Might Be a Gift, Not a Problem
www.soveryblessed.com

Get on the waitlist for the Lead Well for Women in Small Churches Conference: www.smallchurchsummits.com

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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191: Stop Saying People Aren’t Committed - It’s Hurting Your Ministry

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0600

When people don’t show up, it’s easy to assume they don’t care. But labeling them “uncommitted” doesn’t make us stronger leaders—it just makes us bitter, burned out, and less curious.

In this episode, we’re calling out the commitment myth that keeps showing up in church conversations—and talking about what it really means to lead with presence, hope, and agency.

Because what we believe about people? It shows up in how we treat them.

In this episode:

Why labeling people “uncommitted” leads to fatalism and frustration
How our assumptions shape our actions—and our church culture
The power of curiosity over criticism when people don’t engage how we’d like
What it means to lead with agency, not resentment

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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190: Grace, Bullies, & Boundaries: How To Stay In The Conversation

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0600

If you listened to Episode 189, you know we tackled the hard truth about what happens when grace gets twisted into protecting bullies in the church.

This episode stands on its own — but it’s also a continuation of that conversation.

We’re getting real about how to handle church conflict in a healthy, biblical way … and why the space between ignoring bad behavior and asking someone to leave matters so much.

Here’s what’s inside:

The “in-between” - why it matters and how to live there without losing your mind.
How to deal with bullies in church - with empathy, truth, and boundaries.
Speaking softly, holding your ground, and still loving people well.
The behavior that’s never okay in church (and how to call it out with kindness).
When to keep working toward repair … and when to walk away in peace.

Because healthy churches aren’t built by people who avoid hard conversations. They’re built by people who love deeply, speak truth gently, and trust that God still has more for His church.

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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189: When “Grace” Protects Bullies: How We Confuse Avoidance With Christlikeness

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Sometimes “just be gracious” is really code for “don’t rock the boat.” But when grace gets twisted into silence, avoidance, or fear, it stops looking like Jesus.

In this episode, we’re talking about the quiet damage that happens when harmful behavior is tolerated in the name of patience or peace.

What do you do when you’re not in charge but can’t ignore the dysfunction? Let’s get real about boundaries, truth, and the courage to speak up in love.

What You’ll Hear:

Why avoidance often gets mislabeled as grace in small church culture
The difference between strong personalities and destructive behavior
What it looks like to protect others without overstepping leadership
Simple language and actions that help you draw healthy lines
Encouragement to stay spiritually healthy—even when your church isn’t

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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188: The Small Church Pay Debate: A Question That Drives Me Crazy!

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 03:00:00 -0600

That question — “Would you keep doing your ministry if you weren’t paid?” — drives me nuts.

Ministry isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is pay. Some serve as a career, others as a calling — and both deserve respect.

This episode isn’t about right or wrong; it’s about honesty, healthy boundaries, and giving yourself permission to choose what works for your life, whether that includes a paycheck or not.

What You’ll Hear:

How the “Would you work for free?” question misses the messy, real-life truth about small church ministry
Why budgets don’t always reflect the value churches place on ministry roles
When unclear expectations can lead to hurt—and why clear boundaries protect everyone

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187: When Your Church Feels Like It’s Dying: What to Do (and What’s Still True)

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0600

If your church is shrinking, struggling, or just doesn’t look like it used to—it can feel like failure. But what if it’s not?

In this episode, we talk honestly about fear, change, and what actually makes a church vibrant (hint: it’s not numbers). Because while buildings close, callings don’t—and Jesus isn’t panicking.

You’ll hear:

Why panic isn’t a strategy—and what to focus on instead
How to grieve well without getting stuck in it
What to do when the youth group disappears (or never existed)
What influence looks like when you have no title or team

Let’s shift from fear to purpose—and start showing up like it still matters.

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186: Planning Your KidMin Year | with Lauren Jackson

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0600

What if you could enter the next ministry year with clarity, unity, and a plan that actually fits your church?

In this episode, I talk with Lauren Jackson from Kids Ministry Circle about how churches of any size can create a meaningful, intentional KidMin plan—and why July is the perfect time to start.

Whether you're leading solo or working with a team, this conversation will give you practical ideas and a whole lot of encouragement.

In this episode, you'll hear:

1. Why summer is the ideal time to plan your KidMin year
2. How to invite Jesus into your planning process
3. Key conversations to have with your pastor and team
4. What planning looks like in small church contexts
5. Encouragement for leaders who feel overwhelmed or under-resourced

Connect with Lauren Jackson:
www.nextgenministrynetwork.com

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185: Finally, A Children’s Curriculum Made For Two Or More (Literally) | with Ali Thompson

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0600

What if your small church could run a meaningful, Jesus-centered children’s ministry—even with just a few kids and a couple of volunteers?

In this episode, I’m talking with Group Publishing about their brand-new Sunday School curriculum, Two or More, designed specifically for smaller churches and mixed-age groups.

If you've been trying to “make it work” with curriculum that doesn’t fit your context… this one's for you.

In this episode, you'll hear:

1. Why Two or More was created with small churches in mind
2. How it works for all ages in the same room
3. What makes this curriculum different from others on the market
4. How it supports volunteers who wear all the hats
5. How to know if it’s the right fit for your church

Find Two Or More Curriculum here: www.smallchurchministry.com/group

Connect with Ali Thompson:
athompson@group.com

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184: Breaking Down Ministry Silos: Why Collaboration Matters in Small Churches

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0600

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-mode
2. Why silos are especially harmful in smaller churches
3. How collaboration can bring momentum and support
4. Practical ways to start building bridges
5. One simple conversation that can spark real change

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183: Church Spotlight: Building a Church-Wide Team - Involving All Ages in Children’s Ministry | with Heather Harkins

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this inspiring episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast, host Laurie Graham talks with Heather Harkins about transforming children's ministry in a small church.

Heather shares practical strategies for increasing congregational involvement, breaking down traditional ministry barriers, and creating meaningful intergenerational connections.

Learn how her church reimagined children's ministry by

Involving senior adults
Creating church-wide events
Developing a flexible, inclusive approach that works for churches with limited resources

Whether you're a children's ministry volunteer or church leader, this episode offers creative solutions for building a vibrant, supportive ministry that engages the entire congregation.

Connect with Heather Harkins:
www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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182: We Turned Discipleship into a Lecture: What Happened to Heart & Soul?

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this series, we’ve been naming what’s broken in church culture—and today, we’re talking about what we lost in discipleship.

When did spiritual growth become just facts, checklists, and classroom settings?

Jesus didn’t disciple minds—He discipled hearts. He invited people into His life. He wept. He asked questions. He modeled emotional depth, not just theological accuracy.

Somewhere along the way, we started ignoring that side of discipleship—and it’s costing us. Real transformation doesn’t happen without real connection.

In this episode hear:

Why emotions, vulnerability, and connection matter in spiritual growth
How Psalms and the life of Jesus model emotional intelligence
What happens when we teach minds but ignore hearts
Why small churches are uniquely positioned to lead the way in authentic discipleship

Let’s stop numbing out and start showing up—heart, soul, and all.

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181: Let’s Stop Using ‘Biblical’ to Divide the Church

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0600

This anniversary series is about naming what’s broken in church culture—and making room for leadership that looks like Jesus.

In this episode, we’re rethinking the phrase “We’re a biblical church.” It’s often used to divide, not unite—and that’s a problem.

We’ll cover:

1. Why “we’re a biblical church” can actually drive people apart instead of uniting us.
2. My personal frustration with how “biblical” has sometimes been used as a measuring stick for others’ faith.
3. Celebrating our diverse, Scripture-loving community
4. How using “biblical” as a litmus test for belonging does more harm than good.
5. Reclaiming “biblical” as a term that reflects Christlike love, humility, and connection.

Let’s use our words to build unity—not walls.

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180: When Dysfunction Becomes the Culture—and No One Talks About It

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Church should be a place of growth and healing—but too often, dysfunction gets disguised as “unity” or “God’s will.”

In this episode of our anniversary series, we’re naming the unhealthy systems churches cling to and calling for leadership that reflects Jesus’ heart.

We’ll talk about:

1. True unity vs. fear-based “togetherness”
2. The damage of avoiding hard conversations
3. How power imbalances keep people silent
4. Why dysfunction isn’t spiritual maturity
5. What it takes to build an emotionally healthy church culture

It’s time for small churches to lead with empathy, curiosity, and respect.

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179: Stop Using People: Volunteers Aren’t a Workforce—They’re Your Ministry

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 03:00:00 -0600

We’re kicking off our 4-part anniversary series: “Off Script: Five Years Later & Still Saying What No One Else Will.”

This series names what’s broken in church culture—and calls us to something better. From power dynamics to discipleship, we’re going there.

Today’s episode tackles a common problem: treating volunteers like a workforce instead of ministry partners. This mindset leads to burnout, disconnection, and people feeling used—not valued.

We’ll explore how to move from a task-based model to a relational one that reflects Jesus’ heart for ministry.

In this episode:

1. Why treating volunteers as workers leads to burnout
2. Helpers vs. true ministry partners
3. How to build a culture where volunteers feel valued
4. The power of shared ownership in ministry

If your church is stuck in a “fill-the-slot” mindset, this episode is your invitation to rethink volunteer ministry.

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178: Church Spotlight: Unity in Action: Small Town Churches Collaborating to Meet Community Needs | with Carla Adams

Tue, 27 May 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this inspiring episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast, Carla Adams shares how four churches in her small Georgia town broke down denominational barriers to unite in community service and fellowship.

Learn how these churches - including Baptist, Methodist, and others - overcame historical divisions to collaborate on events like Easter sunrise services, community giveaways, and women's conferences.

Carla reveals the power of focusing on shared faith, the unexpected benefits of cross-church partnerships, and practical tips for small churches looking to make a bigger impact together.

This episode is a testament to the strength of unity and the transformative potential of churches working side by side.

Connect with Carla Adams:
www.signsformysister.com
www.facebook.com/signsformysister
carla@signsformysister.com

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177: The Small Church Advantage & The Vital Role of Laity | with Teresa Stewart

Tue, 20 May 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this inspiring episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast, host Laurie Graham sits down with Theresa J. Stewart, author of "The Small Church Advantage," to challenge traditional views of small churches.

Theresa shares powerful insights on how smaller congregations are not deficient, but unique "test kitchens" for innovative ministry.

Learn how volunteers and lay members are the secret sauce of church vitality, and discover how embracing your community's specific gifts can transform worship.

Whether you're feeling discouraged about your small church's size or looking for fresh perspectives, this episode will encourage you to see your congregation's incredible potential.

Connect with Teresa Stewart:
www.smallchurch.org

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176: Getting on the Same Page: Trust & Understanding Between Pastor & Volunteers | with Doug Beutler

Tue, 13 May 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this insightful episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast, host Laurie Graham sits down with Pastor Doug Butler to explore the often-challenging dynamics between pastors and church volunteers.

They dive deep into building trust, understanding, and unity in small church settings, discussing how to:

Overcome communication barriers
Embrace diverse personalities
Create a supportive church community

Doug shares practical wisdom from 27 years of pastoral experience, offering valuable insights for both church leaders and volunteers on how to work together effectively, validate each other's ministries, and focus on discipleship.

Whether you're a pastor, volunteer, or church member, this episode provides encouragement and strategies for creating a more connected and impactful church family.

Connect with Doug Beutler:
www.lifewatercc.org/seeds-of-change

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175: Church Spotlight: Outreach Ideas To Increase Visibility and Connect with Your Community | With Sarah Harlow

Tue, 06 May 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this special episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast, host Laurie Graham talks with Sarah Harlow about creative, meaningful outreach strategies for small churches.

Sarah shares innovative ways her church connects with the local community, from blessing baristas to writing appreciation cards for community leaders.

In this episode:

Discover how to do outreach with limited resources
Learn simple, impactful ways to show community love
Get practical tips for engaging local businesses and leaders
Hear creative ideas for church events and community connection
Understand how small churches can make a big difference

Whether you're struggling with outreach ideas or looking to reinvigorate your church's community engagement, this episode offers practical tips and heartwarming insights that will encourage and inspire ministry leaders.

Connect with Sarah Harlow:
https://shorturl.at/8OyLw

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174: More Volunteers, Jesus-Style: Developing People, Not Just Programs

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this powerful opening session of the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference, host Laurie Graham explores volunteer recruitment through a Jesus-centered lens.

She challenges ministry leaders to shift from merely recruiting volunteers to developing people, emphasizing the importance of seeing and valuing individuals.

Drawing on personal stories and biblical insights, Laurie discusses how small churches can create meaningful ministry experiences by focusing on:

relationships
emotional health
genuine care

This episode offers a refreshing perspective on building volunteer teams that goes beyond traditional church programming, encouraging leaders to see volunteers as part of their ministry, not just a means to an end.

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173: Recognizing & Connecting With Hurting Kids: Broken Families, Shifting Realities, & Small Churches | with Melissa J. MacDonald

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 03:00:00 -0600

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.com

Get your free ticket to the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference:
www.smallchurchsummits.com

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172: Beyond Inclusion: Helping Every Child Find Their Place in Church | with Kim Botto

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this powerful episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast, host Laurie Graham sits down with Kim Botto to explore how small churches can create a welcoming environment for every child, especially those with neurodivergent needs or trauma backgrounds.

Listen in to:

Discover why 1 in 3 families with children with disabilities have left a church
Learn practical strategies for inclusion that don't require big budgets
Understand the difference between simply including children and helping them truly belong
Get actionable tips for supporting children with sensory needs and behavioral differences
Hear inspiring stories of churches making meaningful changes

Kim shares practical strategies for inclusion, debunks common myths, and offers hope for churches wanting to ensure every child feels they truly belong.

Learn how simple tools like fidget resources and compassionate relationships can transform children's church experiences.

Perfect for ministry leaders, volunteers, and parents seeking to make church a safe, loving space for all children.

Connect with Kim Botto:
www.kimbotto.com
www.instagram.com/kimbotto
Every Child Belongs Podcast: www.podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/every-child-belongs/id1788322535

Get your free ticket to the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference:
www.smallchurchsummits.com

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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171: Teaching Today’s Teens: Leveraging Their Limited Availability, Perceived Apathy, & Growing Agency | with Mike Haynes

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Laurie Graham and youth ministry expert Mike Haynes discuss effective strategies for engaging and teaching teenagers in small church youth groups.

Key topics include:

Recognizing the challenges of over-scheduled teens
Leveraging teenagers' natural agency
Structuring interactive youth group time
Adapting teaching methods to match teenage cognitive development

The episode equips small church youth leaders to better connect with and disciple the next generation.

Connect with Mike Haynes:
www.youthministrycurriculum.com

Get your free ticket to the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference:
www.smallchurchsummits.com

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170: A Great Children's Ministry Doesn’t Require A Building, A Budget, Or A Brand | with Angela Marks

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Join Laurie Graham and special guest Angela Marks in this inspiring episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast as they dive deep into children's ministry.

Angela shares her transformative journey from an IT professional to a passionate children's minister, revealing how a great children's ministry isn't about big budgets or fancy programs, but about seeing the incredible potential in every child.

In this episode:

Discover how to minister effectively with limited resources
Learn to see children's potential beyond their current behavior
Understand the power of affirmation and personal testimony
Gain strategies for staying motivated when ministry feels challenging
Hear powerful stories of transformation from Angela's ministry experience

Whether you're serving in a small church or feeling discouraged by low attendance, this episode will reignite your passion and help you see ministry through a lens of hope, love, and possibility.

Connect with Angela Marks:
www.youtube.com/@AngelaMarks
www.instagram.com/angelammarks

Get your free ticket to the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference:
www.smallchurchsummits.com

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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169: Engaging Adults With Disabilities In Your Small Church: Respect, Support, & Connection | with Victoria White

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0600

Laurie Graham and Victoria White discuss the inclusion of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in the church.

Victoria, an experienced advocate, shares her passion for this issue and the benefits of welcoming this population, such as slowing down and gaining new perspectives.

The conversation covers practical steps for churches to reach out and build relationships with the IDD community, as well as the importance of addressing attitudes and misconceptions.

The key takeaways highlight the need to recognize the underrepresentation of people with IDD in many congregations and the transformative impact their presence can have.

Connect with Victoria White:
vwand2@gmail.com
www.disabilityministrynetwork.org
www.cityhopegr.org

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168: Church Spotlight: How A Planning Party Sparked Creativity, Community, and Collaboration | Kelly Wilson

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Laurie Graham welcomes guest Kelly Wilson to discuss her experience implementing a "planning party" at her small church.

Kelly shares how the planning party concept helped address the challenges she and her husband faced as the primary planners and implementers of church activities.

The planning party involved the congregation in a low-pressure way to generate ideas ...

leading to a positive response
successful volunteer recruitment
ongoing enthusiasm

Kelly explains the execution and impact of the planning party, and encourages other small churches to try this approach to build momentum, gain volunteers, and share the workload of ministry.

Your Best Ever Women’s Ministry Planning Party
Planning Party Articles

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167: Healthy Responses To Church Conflict: What to Do When Silence Isn’t The Solution | Brenna Fields Hayes

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode, host Laurie Graham and guest Brenna Fields Hayes dive into the topic of healthy responses to church conflict.

They discuss the prevalence of unresolved conflict in many churches and the importance of creating safe environments for open communication.

Brenna shares insights on:

the role of personal responsibility
evaluating one's own motives and emotional readiness
finding scriptural guidance during challenging times

This conversation offers practical steps for navigating conflict in a measured, prayerful manner, benefiting volunteers, ministry leaders, and anyone seeking to foster healthier, more unified church communities.

Connect with Brenna Fields Hayes:
www.newseasonnewday.com

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166: Church Spotlight: We Added Dignity To A Food Pantry With A Sit-Down Cafe | Alastair & Nicola Bruce

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 03:00:00 -0700

Alastair and Nicola Bruce from a small church in Scotland share how they transformed a coffee shop space into a community pantry, cafe, and pre-loved shop to provide support with dignity and build relationships.

They offer practical advice for other churches to start small and match resources to community needs.

The community pantry became a platform for long-term support and missional engagement beyond just providing food.

Connect with Alastair and Nicola Bruce:
www.ellonparishchurch.co.uk

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165: Small Churches & Big Events | with Cheri Kulhawick

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0700

Laurie Graham and Cheri Kulhawick share tips for small churches organizing large community events, including ...

The importance of early planning
Building a diverse team
Befining a clear purpose
Being flexible when things don't go as expected

Cheri 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 Event

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164: Finding Your Place: Embracing Unique Gifts & Talents In Ministry | with DG Wynn

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Laurie Graham and DG Wynn discuss finding your place of influence and using your unique gifts and passions in ministry.

They explore ...

The limitations of spiritual gifts inventories
Share examples of people making an impact through unexpected talents
Emphasize the importance of embracing small beginnings

This episode encourages listeners to be open to using their gifts, no matter how unusual, and to create space for others to do the same in their churches.

Connect with DG Wynn:
www.chasmgaming.com

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163: Scheduling Volunteers & Tools That Help | with Justin King

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Laurie Graham welcomes Justin King, the founder of The Church Crew, a scheduling tool designed to help small churches manage their volunteers more effectively.

They discuss:

Justin's personal experience with volunteer management challenges, the features of The Church Crew
The importance of healthy systems to support volunteers
Balancing the use of scheduling tools with leaving room for the Holy Spirit

This conversation provides valuable insights for small church leaders looking to empower their volunteers and create more sustainable ministry practices.

Connect with Justin King:
www.thechurchcrew.com

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162: 3 Types Of People Who Visit Your Church Website (& Why It Matters) | with Derek Maxson

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Laurie Graham welcomes Derek Maxson, an expert in helping small churches improve their online presence. Derek shares his insights on the three types of church website visitors:

Insiders
Shoppers
Seekers

He emphasizes the importance of catering to "Seekers" - those visiting in crisis - and provides practical tips on what to add to your church website.

This episode is a must-listen for small churches looking to leverage their website as an effective front door to their community.

Connect with Derek Maxson:
Get 50% off a Website Evaluation: https://spiffy.church use code PODCAST
www.revital.church

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161: Helping Women Connect, Grow, & Thrive In Different Stages & Seasons

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0700

Have you ever noticed that “one-size-fits-all” doesn’t really fit anyone well? The same is true in ministry.

In this episode, we’ll explore how to build a women’s ministry that truly meets women where they are—whether they’re just starting their faith journey, deepening their walk with God, or seasoned in spiritual maturity.

Filled with practical ideas and real-life examples, come discover how to create a space where all women feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow.

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160: Why Copying Other Women’s Ministries Doesn’t Work & How To Find What Does | with Dee Bryce

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0700

In today’s episode, guest Dee Bryce explains why copying other women’s ministries often falls short and how to create a ministry that truly resonates with your unique context.

Dee shares practical advice on discovering the rhythms that work for your church and community, focusing on authenticity over imitation.

Tune in to hear Dee’s story and get some great tips on building a ministry to women that’s personal, impactful, and reflects not only your vision but the needs of the women you’re serving.

Get your free ticket to the Women's Ministry for Small Churches Conference:
https://smallchurchsummits.com/

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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159: Women’s Ministry & Embracing God’s Unique Assignment For You | with Aimee Nelson

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0700

This month on The Small Church Ministry Podcast, we’re focusing on women’s ministry as we gear up for our annual Women’s Ministry For Small Churches Conference.

Today’s guest, Aimee Nelson, shares how unexpected turns in her life became the driving force behind her ministry, transforming challenges into her greatest message.

Tune in to hear how embracing the twists and turns in your own life can lead to your own uniquely powerful and impactful ministry.

Get your free ticket to the Women's Ministry for Small Churches Conference:
https://smallchurchsummits.com/

Connect with Aimee Nelson:
www.aimee-nelson.com/home

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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158: Beyond Events: The Incredible Impact Of Organic Relationships In Women's Ministry | with Charmaine Stulp

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 03:00:00 -0700

While some women crave a vibrant “women’s ministry,” other women aren’t excited by the idea. With the myriad of differences in upbringing, past experiences, personalities, and interests, no women’s ministry will be a perfect fit for all.

The good news is that the most incredible impact we can have in the lives of others is in building authentic relationships. While not every woman appreciates a tea party, each one craves to be seen, understood, accepted and loved.

In this episode, ministry leader Charmaine Stulp shares how she never truly felt like she fit in a typical “Women’s Ministry” - and yet - her heart for the women inside and outside her church walls draws her into ministry on a personal level.

Whether you’re a lover of a great craft night or you’d rather be out throwing axes, this episode is for you!

Get your free ticket to the Women's Ministry for Small Churches Conference:
https://smallchurchsummits.com/

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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157: My Favorite End-Of-Year Journaling Prompts

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0700

As the year comes to an end, it’s the perfect time to step back and reflect.

In this episode, I’m sharing my favorite end-of-year journaling prompts to help you process what’s unfolded over the past 12 months and get reset for a new year too.

Whether you’re looking to celebrate your wins or learn from your challenges, this episode is for you.

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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156: Emmanuel “God With Us” & The Power of WITHness in Ministry

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0700

This episode features a personal Christmas message from Laurie. We were all created to experience Emmanuel - God with us - in life and in ministry!

Too many times in small churches, we are so busy working and striving for God, that we miss out on the experience of being with Him.

This encouraging message reminds us of the power of living and moving in the WITHness of God. Only then can we replace our drivenness to do for God with grace upon grace instead.

Join our free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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155: The Weight Of Christmas & How To Lighten The Load | with Troy Matchett

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0700

Too often in small churches, Christmastime carries a heavy weight of ministry.

Volunteers, ministry leaders, and pastors often feel torn between family and church, struggling to find their own peace and joy in a busy season with extra ministry programs and pressures poured on.

Listen in as Pastor Troy Matchett shares his experience as a small church pastor and what he’s learned along the way to lighten the load during the holidays.

Join our free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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154: 5 Simple Steps To Stop Othering And Start Including | Accessibility & Inclusion Series Part 6

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0700

This episode wraps up our small church series about accessibility and inclusion with five steps we can all take to create more welcoming spaces for everyone, no matter their background, abilities, or differences.

Whether you're a volunteer, Sunday School teacher, deacon, or pastor, these practical tips will help us all be more mindful of the difference we can make in helping people know they belong.

Join our free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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153: Creating A Welcoming Place For Unchurched Youth & Non-Traditional Family Structures with Sandy Smith | Accessibility & Inclusion Series Part 5

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0700

Whether you’re a Sunday school teacher, ministry leader, pastor, or volunteer, this important episode explores the intersection of faith, family, and inclusion.

Ministry leader and adoptive parent, Sandy Smith, shares how we can do better at creating welcoming spaces for unchurched youth and non-traditional families, who often feel on the outside looking in.

Join this conversation as we discuss the challenges faced by these young people and families and how small churches can create more inclusive, compassionate, and supportive spaces.

Listen in to learn about how we can do better with:

Behavior standards and kids running in the hallway
Prizes and incentives that unintentionally lead to exclusion instead of motivation
More relational time and why it’s essential in our classrooms and youth groups
Sensitivity around holidays and family-centered celebrations

Join our free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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152: Doing Ministry With Those With Disabilities with Rebecca Wall | Accessibility & Inclusion Series Part 4

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0700

Join our conversation with Rebecca Wall as she shares how we can strengthen our churches not by doing ministry for those with disabilities, but by doing ministry with them.

As the Executive Director of With Ministries, Rebecca’s heart and expertise speak loud and clear. With Ministries “seeks to build church communities where congregations are truly with people experiencing disability, where all are known, have opportunities to serve and lead, and worship alongside fellow believers.”

Listen in to hear:

Since 1 out of 4 people have a disability, why don’t our churches reflect that?
Why you don’t need a separate ministry or more volunteers to include those with disabilities
Practical steps to help your church to become a place of belonging for all people
Tips to communicate inclusion on your website and why it’s vital to start there

Connect with With Ministries:
www.withministries.org
www.instagram.com/withministriesorg

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151: How To Create A Safe Space For Neurodiverse People Of All Ages With Ruth A. Popkin | Accessibility & Inclusion Series Part 3

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0700

In this episode, learn why it’s important to understand the needs of neurodiverse adults and how creating a space where neurodiverse individuals are seen, heard, and celebrated strengthens your church body - from worshipers to volunteers.

Pastor Ruth A. Popkin, a passionate advocate for neurodiversity and inclusion, joins us to discuss how small churches can better serve people of all ages in the neurodivergent community.

Listen in to hear:

What neurodiversity includes and how common it is among adults
How a homeschool co-op lit the fire for supporting those with neurodiversity in a local church
Easy-to-implement ideas for a more supportive Sunday morning for neurodiverse adults and families

Connect with Ruth A. Popkin:
pastor@blcin.com

Join our free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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150: Got Room For Wheels? Let’s Talk Mobility With Joanne Petersen | Accessibility & Inclusion Series Part 2

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0700

As we desire to create faith communities where all are welcome, we’ve dedicated a series of conversations to accessibility and inclusion in small churches.

Churches of all sizes are missing entire segments of people not far from our doorsteps, and we can do better.

Today’s topic dives into creating spaces and communities that are truly accessible for those with mobility challenges.

After an accident in her 20s, today’s guest found her life significantly altered as she adjusted to being a paraplegic. Joanne Petersen speaks to us today, raising awareness about accessibility issues in our churches and simple fixes to do better.

In addition to talking about wheelchair-friendly spaces, from restrooms to entryways, Joanne shares her heart on what it means to be truly considered by others who see her not as a person with a disability but as a friend.

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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149: Welcome Place For All: Accessibility, Inclusion, & Belonging In Small Churches | Accessibility & Inclusion Series Part 1

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 03:00:00 -0700

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 accommodating
A few questions to ponder and start productive conversations in your church to build greater awareness, understanding, and effective next steps toward building community for all

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148: Healthy Church Systems: 6 Key Principles Of Trauma-Informed Ministry with Pete Singer

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0600

The topics of church hurt, church health, and toxic organizational systems are hot topics in today’s culture.

In this episode, Pete Singer, Executive Director Of GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment) helps us define and discuss what’s needed for a healthy church culture.

Listen in for:

Six key principles of trauma-informed ministry
How to identify healthy vs. unhealthy systems
And what to do about it (especially if you’re not in charge)

Connect with Pete Singer:
GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment): https://www.netgrace.org/
https://www.youtube.com/@gracegodlyresponsetoabusei6445
“Toward a More Trauma-Informed Church: Equipping Faith Communities to Prevent and Respond to Abuse”: https://currentsjournal.org/index.php/currents/article/view/444/483
Redeeming Power: Understanding Authority and Abuse in the Church by Diane Langberg: https://www.amazon.com/Redeeming-Power-Understanding-Authority-Church/dp/1587434385

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147: Why Using A Blue Christmas Service This Year Can Boost Community Outreach And Increase Connection

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0600

Effective community outreach involves a lot more than just getting people in the door of your church.

Successful outreach involves building connections where there were none, growing in awareness of needs outside your church walls, and stepping out to meet them.

Christmastime is the perfect season to lean into the needs of your community.

Listen in to this week’s episode to hear:

Three things great outreach churches have in common
One need all of our communities have in common
How to use elements from a Blue Christmas service to open up ministry opportunities in women's ministry, Sunday School, youth group, and more

Get the Christmas Bundles: https://smallchurchministry.com/christmas/

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

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146: 4 Steps To Turn Church Conflict Into Peacemaking Possibilities | with Pastor Doug Marshall

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0600

In this week’s episode, Pastor Doug Marshall shares practical insights on transforming church conflict into opportunities for growth and reconciliation.

Discover the four essential steps that can guide your congregation toward peace and unity.

Discover why having a goal of “no conflict” can cause more harm than good
Gain tools to foster open communication and more collaboration
Explore the role of leadership in promoting a culture of peace.
Learn a simple four-step process to build bridges through a conflict

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145: How To Get Greater Buy-In And Better Attendance In Women’s Ministry

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0600

If you struggle with participation in women’s ministry or are ready for a whole re-start, we got you covered!

In this episode, we identify the most common mistakes smaller churches make in women’s ministry and how to avoid the pitfalls of a lackluster program.

From establishing a long-term vision to hosting the best planning parties, listen in to discover simple steps to develop a women’s ministry that meets needs, encourages visitors, and fosters a sense of community that keeps everyone coming back.

Get the Women's Ministry Bundle: www.smallchurchministry.com/womensbundle

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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144: Actually Fun (& Meaningful) Games For Smaller Teen Classes & Youth Groups | with Zach Hartman

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Even the best curriculum falls short when you can’t get your teens and preteens engaged from the get-go. If your teens are less than enthused to be in class or you’re looking to up-level your youth ministry, this episode is for you.

Today’s guest is making it easy to plan and prep for your next event with games that draw kids in. Meet Zach Hartman, youth ministry leader and founder of ActuallyFun.com.

Join the conversation about why games aren’t just fun but are an ideal tool to build the connection needed to go deeper in discipleship. We’ll show you how to find the perfect games for your group size and age range.

Zach says, "Most games you find are either the same few activities that have been done to death, or even worse, they just aren’t fun. As a result, it takes hours of your time to either plan games from scratch or to find the few hidden treasures."

Let us save you time and money with easy-to-find games, tested by real kids, to help you go deeper in relationships and teaching too.

Connect with Zach Hartman:
www.actuallyfun.com
FREE Game Index: www.actuallyfun.com/game-index/

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143: Best FREE Resource For Church Sexual Abuse Prevention & Response With Kris Buckman & Brad Eubank

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0600

In this crucial episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast, we delve into a vital topic of preventing and responding to sexual abuse within our church communities.

With guests Pastor Brad Eubanks and ministry leader Kris Buckman, we’re spotlighting an invaluable, completely free resource that offers comprehensive support and guidance for your church.

Whether you’re a volunteer, ministry leader, or pastor, you can help make your church a safer place for all and help build the trust of your community as well.

Tune in to discover how to use this free resource to make a meaningful difference in your church’s approach to abuse prevention and response.

Get the Essentials To Prevention & Protection: https://sbcabuseprevention.com/ministry-toolkit/

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142: Mental Health Awareness Month & How A Small Church Can Make An Impact | with Laura Howe

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0600

With epidemic levels of loneliness, depression, and anxiety disorders today, small churches have a unique opportunity to step into their community like never before.

Mental Health Awareness Month and World Mental Health Day are perfect opportunities to join a movement that’s changing lives.

Listen in as Laura Howe, founder of Hope Made Strong and the Church Mental Health Summit, shares practical ways for small churches to walk alongside those who long to know they are not alone.

We’re talking about:

Why you don’t need a mental health degree to offer hope to those who are hurting
The incredible power of walking alongside people and listening without fixing
Popular Christian quips to avoid that inadvertently lead people farther from the church
How to access a completely free resource with everything you need to host a Mental Health Sunday at your church

Connect with Laura Howe:
Free Registration to the Chruch Mental Health Summit 2024: https://www.churchmentalhealthsummit.com/a/2147852404/yFsGboSZ
Free Mental Health Sunday Toolkit: https://www.hopemadestrong.org/2024MentalHealthSunday
The Sanctuary Course: https://sanctuarymentalhealth.org/sanctuary-course/
The Care Ministry Podcast with Laura Howe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-care-ministry-podcast/id1580616639

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week!

141: Building Community In A Disconnected World: Why An Alone Person Is An Emergency | With Rachael Swihart

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0600

It’s not unusual to see people sitting alone in church services. It’s so common that most people think nothing of it.

Listen into this transformative story as Rachael Swihart shares, “As a society, we are the most connected we've ever been. We're also the loneliest we've ever been. About a year ago, I had a conversation with a woman who'd been coming to our church for a while. She told me that it's hard for her to get herself to come because she's divorced and comes alone. She never knew if she'd have someone to sit with. At the time, I sympathized with her but didn't pursue a plan to help … she started coming less and less until she stopped coming all together.”

This all too common story was the catalyst to change in Rachael’s church.

In this episode, Rachael shares simple steps we all can do to lead to change, strengthen our communities, and love more like Jesus.

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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140: Embracing The Gaps In Youth Ministry With Mike Haynes

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 03:00:00 -0600

If you’re in a smaller church, you know that a small church means a small youth group or sometimes no youth group at all.

Join the conversation with youth ministry expert and G Shades curriculum creator, Mike Haynes, as he shares his vision for a “gospel lens” when it comes to reaching teens and pre-teens in any setting.

Listen in to:

Discover effective strategies for teaching teens in any size group
Learn about the largest gaps to overcome when relating to teens today
Reimagine Jesus as our first model of effective youth ministry
Hear Mike’s best tips to stop hiding behind curriculum and start showing up in the fullness of who you are

Connect with Mike Haynes:
G Shades Youth Ministry Curriculum & Get a Free 4-Week Curriculum: www.gshades.org
Check out the book Life Through The Lens Of The Gospel
www.instagram.com/mikeehaynes

Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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139: You're Never Too Old To Learn The Guitar Or Start A Women's Ministry | with Pamela Yates

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0600

In today's episode, we're talking to small church volunteer Pamela Yates from Milan, Indiana.

After retiring from a career in teaching, Pam never imagined she'd be learning to play an instrument, stepping into worship leading, heading up a women's ministry, and more.

Listen in for an inspirational testimony of God not calling the equipped, but equipping the called!

Connect with Pamela Yates:
https://wheregodleads.com/

Join our free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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138: Sunday School Teaching Tips For All Ages | with Waynell Henson

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Listen in to today's episode for a conversation with That Sunday School Girl, Waynell Henson.

Growing up in a small church, Waynell shares her appreciation for smaller spaces as she encourages Sunday School teachers to teach to one like they are teaching to 100.

With a YouTube following of over 42,000, Wanell shares her commitment "to encouraging a community of Sunday School Lovers who just enjoy being prepared and who come to class ready to be difference makers.

Sunday School isn’t just for kids. It’s one more way for God’s Word to become alive in our everyday lives!"

Connect with Waynell Henson:
Website: https://thatsundayschoolgirl.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ThatSundaySchoolGirl
Facebook, IG, Twitter, TikTok: @ThatSundaySchoolGirl
Equipped for Purpose: https://amzn.to/4dy5MlS
F.U.T.U.R.E. Focus Participant guide: https://amzn.to/4do3Axq
F.U.T.U.R.E. Focus Instructor guide: https://amzn.to/3X03DtC
My Etsy Store: https://bit.ly/TSSGSwagShop

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🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week!

137: Please Don’t Tell Me … “Ministry Would Be Great If It Weren’t For The People”

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Laurie answers 3 questions from our listeners:

What are the non-negotiables in ministry?
What are your thoughts on the phrase “I love ministry, except for the people”?
What has been the most life-giving investment you made in yourself? How did that impact your ministry?

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136: Helping Small Churches Thrive | Interview with Karl Vaters

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 03:00:00 -0600

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.com

Join our free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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135: Five Things To Get Unstuck & Experience The Ministry God Has For You

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:00:00 -0600

This week we are sharing a mainstage talk from last week’s live conference, Married To The Pastor.

Whether you’re a volunteer, ministry leader, or pastor, this episode is for you.

We’re unpacking the 5 things you need to get unstuck in any challenge, calling, or circumstance.

Listen in to learn …

How to cultivate hope when you’re feeling defeated
Why your success and fulfillment are not dependent on the cooperation of others
The relationship between courage and vulnerability, and why it matters in ministry
How a 1% change in your trajectory will land drastically different results

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134: How A Small Church Became A Hub For Disaster Relief, Racial Reconciliation, & A K-12 School | with Dr. Dawn Baldwin Gibson

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0600

When Pastors Anthony & Dawn Baldwin Gibson set out to plant a church, they had no idea they would be feeding thousands, helping to heal a community, and building a school. Not only have they built community partnerships in their local area, but they also help other smaller churches identify needs, mobilize volunteers, and find resources they need to serve their communities.

Listen in as Dr. Gibson shares their church story of:

Transforming Lives,
Strengthening Families, and
Intentionally Impacting Communities

Get your free ticket to the Married to the Pastor Conference >> www.smallchurchsummits.com/ps2024

Connect with Dr. Dawn Baldwin Gibson:
www.peletahministries.com

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133: Small Church Mindset Shifts, Strategies, & Support | A Story Of Renewal With Allison Marco

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0600

After years of small church setbacks and church trauma, Allison and her husband were on the verge of walking away from ministry.

After finding our community, this pastoral couple made simple mindset shifts that not only changed their personal trajectory but also greatly influenced their church culture to move from unhealthy to thriving.

From feeling burned out to feeling totally blessed, listen in as Allison shares some easy-to-make ministry changes and self-care practices that made the difference.

Get your free ticket to the Married to the Pastor Conference >> www.smallchurchsummits.com/ps2024

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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132: Church Growth & The Comparison Trap | with Cledra Gross

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Comparing numbers seems unavoidable in church ministry. For those of us in small churches, comparison can leave us feeling defeated.

Today’s guest shares why numbers are not the end of the story and often send people in directions that are not based on biblical truth.

Join the conversation with ministry leader Cledra Gross as she unpacks a bit of her journey from a big church to a small church and the comparison trap ministry leaders fall into.

Listen in to hear:

How comparison is normal, but it doesn’t need to be negative
Ways to recognize that you’re doing great ministry even if numbers don’t reflect your success
The benefits of holding church in a middle school and not having your own building
Why it’s important to recognize the theme of lack that accompanies comparison and how to change the narrative

Get your free ticket to the Married to the Pastor Conference >> www.smallchurchsummits.com/ps2024

Connect with Cledra Gross:
https://www.cledra.com/
https://www.facebook.com/cledramccullersgross
https://www.instagram.com/cledragross/

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Support the show

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131: Encouragement From A Small Church Pastor’s Wife | with Joni Topper

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Life and ministry in a small church isn’t always easy.

We share seasons of dwindling numbers, missing volunteers, and wondering if we’re making a difference. And yet, the unique impact of small churches is also undeniable.

In this heartfelt episode, pastor’s wife and ministry leader Joni Topper shares her heart and ultimate motivation to serve and to keep on serving in a small church.

Connect with Joni Topper:
www.morningloryministry.com
www.facebook.com/Morningloryjoni

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130: You Can’t Lead Well If You Don’t Teach Well: Healthy Leadership Is Others-Centered

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we’re unpacking the difference between leading and teaching and why both are vital in our serving.

We’re talking about getting beyond knowledge transfer and inspiring others to personal growth and transformation.

This is what Jesus did. Listen in to learn how.

See our resources for sale: resources.smallchurchministry.com

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

Follow Us:
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: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

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🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week!

129: We Can’t Love Well Without Understanding: Church Health & Community

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 11:00:00 -0600

This episode continues our series about healthy churches, starting with us as individuals and continuing into our relationships.

Too often, when we think of church success, we immediately jump to evaluating programs, attendance, and finances when the real success in our local churches is evidenced by how we love.

Learn how to grow in understanding for those the hardest for us to love - and why it matters.

Email Laurie: laurie@smallchurchministry.com
See our resources for sale: resources.smallchurchministry.com

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

Follow Us:
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: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

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128: You Can’t Be Well, If You Don’t Love Well: Church Health & Loving Others

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0600

If asked to describe the church today, many people might not put “loving” at the top of their list.

In this episode, we’re unpacking why this is and what we can do about it.

For many churches, our efforts to do more, serve better, and meet our program goals result in neglecting the very people we’re trying to love. The best tools, strategies, and ideas only go so far.

If we’re not loving well, all the effort in the world has minimal lasting impact.

Listen in to hear:

Signs that what is normal in your church might need some repair and restoration
How to know if “constructive criticism” is actually constructive and if “speaking the truth in love” is actually loving
That our intentions to love others don’t always match the impact of our effort (& why this matters so much)
Why Jesus’ most overlooked response to the rich young ruler should be our norm too

Email Laurie: laurie@smallchurchministry.com
See our resources for sale: resources.smallchurchministry.com

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

Follow Us:
Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry
Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community:

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127: You Can’t Serve Well If You Aren’t Well: Church Health & Personal Healing

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Too many small churches are filled with saints who are overstretched and disheartened.

Our modern church culture hasn’t done us any favors with its focus on church attendance over loving our neighbors.

Our bent toward over-programming is exhausting the volunteers we have left and not producing the fruit we think we are working toward.

We wonder what is going on and if we can even do better in our current world. The first steps toward overhauling this failing church culture start with you and me.

Listen in to:

Hear how what we consider normal church culture is far from reflecting the character of Christ
Identify some wrong beliefs that may be holding you and your church back from health
Assess your own soul health with a list of symptoms of self-neglect and over-serving
Learn what to do in the face of ongoing, unhealthy behavior in your own church
Gain practical steps to move toward your own healing so you can truthfully say, “It is well with my soul.”

See our resources for sale: resources.smallchurchministry.com

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

Follow Us:
Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry
Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community:

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126: Balancing Work, Family, & Volunteering At Church | with Bill Gunter

Tue, 28 May 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Today’s guest has been serving in children’s ministry for decades and keeps coming back for more.

Listen in as Bill Gunter shares a bit of his ministry journey including church transitions, how he balances a volunteer position with a full-time job, and what keeps him inspired to keep on serving.

Connect with Bill Gunter:
smallchurchkidmin.com

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/
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125: A Creative Approach To Midweek Discipleship | with Stephanie Carlson

Tue, 21 May 2024 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode, guest Stephanie Carlson shares how their church’s midweek programming went from age-segregated to all-age-inclusive.

Stephanie wondered if there was a better model of discipleship than the typical big-church strategy of separating ages. She kept coming back to these four questions:

Why are we separating families?
We say we’re “equipping,” but are we?
Parents don’t feel like they know enough; how do we change that?
How do we create a stickier web of influence around our kids?

After considering those questions, Stephanie evolved their midweek programming into a new model that fits their church culture and is having incredible results. Listen in to hear how.

Connect with Stephanie Carlson:
www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry
www.facebook.com/carlson.stephanie
www.instagram.com/slcarlson227
www.fccwillmar.org

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124: Could A Podcast Work For Your Ministry? It’s Easier Than You Think | with Tim Hull

Tue, 14 May 2024 03:00:00 -0600

From sermons to faith conversations, podcasts can be a great medium to build stronger connections and deeper learning.

Listen in to this interview with Tim Hull, owner of Sonimoprhic, as he shares his experience helping smaller churches expand their ministry impact with podcasting.

We’re sharing podcast ideas for:

Easier replay listening of missed sermons
Sustaining community between annual women’s retreats or youth camps
Seasonal podcasts to build connection before and after shared events
Faith conversations across generations
Follow up connection after Vacation Bible School or family outreach

Connect with Tim Hull:
https://sonimorphic.com/
https://ministriesthatpodcast.captivate.fm/

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123: How To Build A Legacy Kids’ Ministry In A Small Church

Tue, 07 May 2024 03:00:00 -0600

What do you do when kids don’t come to Sunday school and teens have better options than youth group?

When parents don’t prioritize church and our communities no longer recognize Sundays as sacred?

Learn how to let go of what’s not working and grab hold of what is.

Listen in to hear simple shifts and doable next steps for any size church to build a ministry legacy that starts today and impacts generations to come.

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122: The Genius Envelope Idea For Intergenerational Connection | with Adrienne Dillard

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0600

If you don’t have enough people for a preschool class, a junior high youth group, or a study for young married couples, join the club!

But what if that was a gift and not a liability?

Listen in to this episode as guest Adrienne Dillard shares:

Why intergenerational ministry is the best
Best tips for growing more connections across the generations
How to use the Envelope Fundraiser Idea to get people talking instead
Why she loves spending her birthdays at youth lock-ins

Connect with Adrienne Dillard:
adillard@newark-umc.org
Every Day is Grandparents' Day!

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121: Neurodiversity, Storytelling, & Fidget Toys | with Krissy Richardson

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Listen in for some great Sunday School insights and storytelling tips from children’s ministry expert Krissy Richardson.

After serving for decades in small churches with a sensitivity to neurodivergent children, Krissy learned of her own autism with a later-life diagnosis in her 30s.

Whether you’re looking to learn some teaching tips or you’d love a better understanding of different learning styles, this is a don’t-miss episode.

Among other things, we’re talking about:

How tangrams, talking sticks, and fidget toys can enhance learning
Creative ways to include children of all ages in active learning of Bible stories
And … (wait for it!) …. the return of the flannelgraph

Get your FREE ticket to the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference!
https://smallchurchsummits.com/kidmin2024/

Connect with Krissy Richardson:
krissy@gracebaptistcc.com

Resources mentioned:
Godly Play
Story Sticks
God's Big Picture Story Guide

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120: Why Relationship Comes Before Discipleship With Unchurched Youth | with Pastor Sunny Brown

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Is your smaller church truly a welcome space for all?

As idyllic as this sounds, reality often sets in at the first sign of unchurched youth who don’t seem to “know the church rules” or visiting friends who seem difficult or disrespectful.

After decades of experience as a pastor, teacher, parent, community leader, and advocate, Sunny Brown joins us on today’s episode with deep wisdom for reaching today’s youth including why relationship comes before discipleship and the importance of answering the question “why” more often than we do.

Get your FREE ticket to the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference!
https://smallchurchsummits.com/kidmin2024/

Connect with Pastor Sunny Brown:
https://www.instagram.com/theeprofessorb/
https://linktr.ee/sunnysideview

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119: How To Make All-Age Worship Work (& Why We Should) | with Andrew Pressley

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Andrew Pressley joins us in this episode to share his take on all-age worship and why children don’t need a separate worship space for great discipleship.

As an associate pastor, veteran music minister, and director of KidsCore (a ministry for children's worship and music that is used in small churches all around the world), Andrew shares his heart, wisdom, and extensive experience in how to engage children and youth of all ages in family-friendly worship services where discipleship is both caught and taught.

Get your FREE ticket to the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference!
https://smallchurchsummits.com/kidmin2024/

Connect with Andrew Pressley:
https://kidscoreworship.com/

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118: Children’s Ministry In Small Churches: Here’s The Gift We Have To Offer | with Natalie Frisk

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 03:00:00 -0600

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.frisk
https://twitter.com/NatalieFrisk
Raising Disciples: How to Make Faith Matter for Our Kids

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117: 7 Things To Do When You're Tired Of Church Ministry

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0600

How are you feeling about ministry right now?

I hope you’re feeling fantastic!

But if you’re not, I’ve been there. In fact, if we’re being honest, we all have.

Instead of beating yourself up for losing your passion or (worse yet) pressing through hoping it’ll get better, listen in for practical steps to give your ministry mood a lift.

Perfect for personal application or to share with team members, the seven ideas include a few easy pivots as well as a couple of major shifts.

Check out our Tea Party Bundle Vol. 1:
https://smallchurchministry.com/teapartybundlevol1

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116: Why Celebrating Mother's Day In Church Is Complicated

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Mother’s Day is complicated.

For some, it’s a special day to honor a mom who was there when we needed her most or at least did the best she could. For others, Mother’s Day is a painful reminder of loss, unmet needs, and sometimes tragic memories.

It can also be a slap in the face if the role of mother is held up as ideal fulfillment, where non-mothers are pitied or perceived as “less-than” with upended priorities.

What’s a church to do with this largely celebrated secular holiday?

Listen in to hear:

Why Mother’s Day is more complicated than in years past, and why it matters
Pros and cons of celebrating this non-church holiday in your church
How to offer compassionate care in the midst of a largely celebrative holiday
Specific tips for meaningful ministry to children & youth around Mother’s Day

Prayer Idea
https://stalbanscme.com/2019/04/16/inclusive-mothering-sunday-prayer-ideas/

Check out our Tea Party Bundle Vol. 1:
https://smallchurchministry.com/teapartybundlevol1

Check out our Blue Christmas Service Bundle:
https://smallchurchministry.com/christmasbundle/

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115: Recruit & Retain More Volunteers: Make These 5 Changes To Your Volunteer Environment

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0600

If your small church needs more volunteers, you’re not alone.

When you’ve tried the sign-up sheets, creative announcements, and personal asks - and you’re still coming up short - it’s time to step back and look at your volunteer environment.

Every church has a “volunteer vibe” - and it’s either helping to draw volunteers in or it’s repelling them from coming near.

Listen in to hear:

5 essential elements to create volunteer environments that draw people in
How a limited capacity can be our superpower, not a liability
Specific steps to healthier ministry practices, starting today
Why required ministry breaks lead to stronger teams and more effective ministry

Check out our Tea Party Bundle Vol. 1:
https://smallchurchministry.com/teapartybundlevol1

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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114: How To Host A Tea Party That Makes An Impact

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 03:00:00 -0700

Too often the impact of our ministry doesn’t match the time and effort we pour into it.

Instead of wondering if you’re making a difference, plan on it!

Listen in to hear the three most important questions to ask when planning your next event.

I’ll be sharing three specific examples of tea parties with three different purposes that lead to different results.

Great ministry isn’t always about doing more things, but it is about adding intention to the things you’re doing.

Check out our Tea Party Bundle Vol. 1:
https://smallchurchministry.com/teapartybundlevol1

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113: Great Ministry Starts With Where You Are And What You Have

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0700

Not enough volunteers? Not enough kids? Not enough funds? You’re not alone.

Ministry can be tough.

In fact, it can be so full of challenges that it’s easy to focus on what we lack - which leads us nowhere good.

The truth is that God has given us all we need to enjoy a ministry full of depth and good growth.

Listen in for tips to start turning what you already have into a small church ministry you love.

Check out our Ministry Bundles:
Women's Ministry Bundle
Children's Ministry Bundle
Youth Ministry Bundle

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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112: Church Growth: Why Numbers Don't Equal Success

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0700

When it comes to ministry success, most people are measuring the wrong thing.

We’ve got to remember that God’s economy is different than ours - and a lot different.

By measuring church accomplishment by numbers, we take our eyes off deeper ministry opportunities, experience a false sense of ministry success or failure, and miss out on the growth God has for us as individuals and for His church.

In this episode, we talk about the thinking fallacies that contribute to this belief and also how to experience God at work, no matter what your numbers.

Check out our Ministry Bundles:
Women's Ministry Bundle
Children's Ministry Bundle
Youth Ministry Bundle

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111: Everything You’ve Ever Wanted To Know About Planning Parties

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0700

If you’re tired of doing it all yourself and you want to get some fresh volunteers along with fresh ideas, hosting a Planning Party is the way to go.

The Planning Party system we teach has been used by tons of churches with great results. Including better dates that stick, more volunteers, and increased participation.

Planning Parties are a great way to:

Plan your entire year in 1 evening
Involve new volunteers in plans they are invested in
Increase all-church support and vision for your ministry area

Listen in to learn the 6 steps to Planning Party success, how to avoid the most common mistakes, and a few insider tips for your best year ever.

Blog posts about Planning Parties:
Your Best Ever Women’s Ministry Planning Party
5 Steps To A Youth Ministry Kick-Off Event!

Check out our Ministry Bundles:
Women's Ministry Bundle
Children's Ministry Bundle
Youth Ministry Bundle

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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110: How To Embrace Core Values To Increase Ministry Results, Consistency, & Support

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 03:00:00 -0700

Today we’re talking about core values.

Before you imagine a dusty binder with statements created before your time, imagine instead more impact, increased consistency, and shared passion in your ministry area.

This is what core values done right can do for you.

Listen in to hear:

Two of the biggest small church struggles that core values can help solve
Real-life stories of how core values impact ministry decisions and direction
Why core values are a key to a ministry that outlasts the current leader
How core values can save you time and grow more support too

Check out our Ministry Bundles:
Women's Ministry Bundle
Children's Ministry Bundle
Youth Ministry Bundle

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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109: From Small Church Pastor To Community Pastor | with Pastor Jeff Shouse

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 03:00:00 -0700

If you’re looking for the secret to better community outreach, don’t miss this episode.

Listen in to hear how one small church pastor led his church to become the place the community turns to for help.

From opening their church building for local high school events to providing memorial dinners for community members with no strings attached, this small church has become a hub of community care.

Our guest on the podcast today, Pastor Jeff Shouse from First Baptist Church in Ramsey, Illinois, shares the moment he realized he was the “Community Pastor.”

Connect with Pastor Jeffrey Shouse:
https://fbcramsey.org/

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108: 23 Specific Ways To Build Relational Ministry Into Your Life

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 03:00:00 -0700

Sometimes church ministry looks a lot like being an event planner.

I’m positive that is not what Jesus had in mind, and it’s definitely not what He modeled.

Join me in this episode as we take a deep dive into how to shift from program-centered ministry to relational-centered ministry, and why it matters.

Events and programs can totally be part of a healthy ministry but we weren’t called to be event planners; we were called to be shepherds. Listen in to learn how.

Get your ticket to the Women's Ministry for Small Churches Conference!!

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107: The Top Question To Ask If You Want A Successful Small Church Ministry In 2024

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 03:00:00 -0700

Whether church is feeling stagnant or you’re getting ready to kick off a brand new ministry, we’re unpacking one of the biggest factors leading to a ministry that’s engaging, growing, and seeing results versus one that feels like you’re pulling teeth!

If you’re wondering what’s holding your small church back from joining God in impacting your community, I’ll first tell you what’s NOT the problem:

It’s not the size of your church.
It’s not the lack of volunteer commitment.
It’s not the modern culture.

We’ve gotta stop that blame game. It doesn’t serve us one bit and leads nowhere good. Listen in to hear one specific change you can make - starting today - to help move the needle in your small church’s success.

Get your ticket to the Women's Ministry for Small Churches Conference!!

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106: 5 Steps To Start A Women's Ministry From Scratch

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 03:00:00 -0700

Starting a ministry from scratch can feel like a big undertaking and even a bit scary. But it doesn’t have to be.

Growing a ministry organically, and more slowly, can often build more momentum than coming in with your own strong vision.

I’m going to show you how to do just that with 5 easy steps you can get started on this week.

If you’ve been in women’s ministry for a while, or in a different ministry area, all the principles are transferable and applicable.

We’ll be talking about:

The difference between a vision of women’s ministry and of ministry to women
Why smaller numbers aren’t your enemy but just might be your superpower
How fast to move when you’re new to a church or a ministry area
Tips to choose your first no-fail event
When to talk to your pastor and leadership for approval

Get your ticket to the Women's Ministry for Small Churches Conference!!

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Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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105: How To Develop More Vision For Your Small Church Ministry

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 03:00:00 -0700

Your small church needs vision.

Did you know that visionary people serve with more motivation, attract more volunteers, and are more likely to make an impact in ministry? They are also usually the happiest and most fulfilled volunteers.

Here’s the good news: you have what it takes! YOU were created to be a visionary too!

Listen in to this episode for 3 easy things you can do to get in touch with a fresh vision for your ministry area and spread the vision to others too.

Small Church Network & Academy: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

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"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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104: How To Help More People Find Your Church | with Justin Nava

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0700

Marketing expert and lover of small churches, Justin Nava, shares his take on small church marketing, beginning with his deep belief that more people should know you exist.

Listen in for Justin’s deep dive into the 3 principles he guides small churches through:

Be memorable
Be found
Be known

Connect with Justin Nava:
https://www.navachurchmarketing.com/
The Best Known Church Show

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103: Help Your Church Move From “More Events” To “More Purpose” | with Becky Sargent

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0700

In this episode, ministry veteran Becky Sargent calls out the truth that more events do not equal more ministry and that choosing an event’s purpose is the first step to more ministry impact.

Becky shares her thoughts on small churches, effective ministry, reaching your community, and more.

Listen in for:

Tips to serve your community with no strings attached
How developing a reputation of loving your community leads to deep ministry return
Ideas for purpose-filled event evaluations with leaders, volunteers, and event attendees

Connect with Becky:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry/

Read more about Becky’s community yard sale:
Host A Community Yard Sale To Serve Your Neighbors

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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102: Best Care Ministry: Teach People To Care Even When They’re Afraid | with Kari Bartkus

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0700

While formalized care teams can be great, there’s no replacement for care that’s authentic and organic.

So often we see needs, but we stumble in our efforts or are held back by discomfort or fear of saying the wrong thing.

What if there were a way to overcome the obstacles and help others do the same?

Kari Bartkus, author of Courageous Care, joins us in this episode to share how.

Listen in to hear:

Why caring well is one of the biggest gifts a small church offers
That each of us - no matter what personality - is designed to care well
The 5 biggest obstacles that hold us back from caring
Why showing up is more important than knowing what to say
Specific steps to move past fear and discomfort

Connect with Kari Bartkus:
http://lovedoesthat.org/care

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Support the show

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101: Nine Rapid-Fire Answers To Top Small Church Challenges

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 03:00:00 -0700

In this episode, I’m tackling 9 of the most recent questions popping up in our community of small churches Listen in for quick, practical tips and new strategies to overcome some of your current challenges.

You don’t need to keep living the same Sunday over and over again.

Join thousands of other small churches in being the change you want to see!

How to move people from tasks to teams
What to do when you want a ministry that your church doesn’t have
How to get your own volunteer job description
Thoughts on how to be happy in a church when you’re not feeling it
What to do when you know better than your ministry leader
How to find your personal calling in your small church
Strategies to lead when others don’t want change
Tips to remember names and why it’s important
How to get younger families involved when your congregation is aging

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100: Behind The Scenes At Small Church Ministry With Maggie Dupree

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0700

Join us as we celebrate our 100th episode of the Small Church Ministry Podcast with an exclusive interview with Maggie Dupree.

Growing up as a pastor’s kid, Maggie’s had a front-row seat to small church ministry since the day she was born.

Now serving as a partner in the world’s largest support organization for small churches, she brings a wealth of talent, wisdom, and perspective to small churches across the globe.

We’ll be sharing:

How the strongest teams represent different passions, personalities, and talents
Three of our most successful strategies and how they apply to your ministry too
Why young adults are gravitating more and more to smaller churches

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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099: 5 Steps To Handle Disagreement & Preserve Unity (Yep, It Can Be Done!)

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0700

One of the things people love about small churches is that they feel like family.

But is that always such a great thing?

Sometimes families have really poor relational skills - and sadly, that can be the norm in many churches too. But we can do better.

Listen in to hear 5 steps and specific skills to learn to maintain great relationships even when you disagree.

We’ll be answering questions like:

How can I share my opinion without starting an argument?
How do I talk kindly when I’m so angry?
Is there a way to disagree and not end up feeling polarized?
What do I do when they don’t listen to me?

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week!

098: Ministry Exhaustion: How To Recognize Signs & Seasons Before It’s Too Late | with Shannon Carroll

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0700

Too many volunteers and ministry leaders are serving on the edge of burnout.

Shannon Carroll, co-author of One Thing Remains, shares her family’s dramatic journey through burnout that resulted in her husband losing over a decade of memories.

Listen in to hear her story plus practical tips to recognize the signs and make a change before it really is too late.

This episode is for all pastors, ministry leaders, and volunteers - for yourself and for those with whom you serve.

Check out our burnout recovery courses: https://smallchurchministry.com/burnoutrecoverycourses/

Connect with Shannon Carroll:
https://shannonlcarroll.com/one-thing-remains/

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097: Two Strategies To Help Change A Small Church Culture From Numbers-Focused To People-Focused

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0700

If you’ve experienced God at work, you know that transformation doesn’t always happen in big crowds and that impact doesn’t always equal attendance.

However, in our modern church culture sometimes even the most beautiful Kingdom wins gets dwarfed by the conversation of who didn’t come.

Measuring ministry success by numbers alone is far from Biblical and yet it’s widely practiced. If you want to learn an alternative way to measure success without throwing numbers to the wayside, listen in.

In this episode, we’ll talk about …

Why eliminating numbers isn’t the goal, but changing the emphasis is
The power of sharing heart stories and how to ask the right questions to get there
A free resource that can help the focus shift from attendance to transformation

Get the free 6-session Untapped Study and check out the ministry training course bundles at resources.smallchurchministry.com

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096: Expert Tips For Better Church Communication & Event Promotion With Barbara Carneiro

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0600

If you feel like fewer people than ever are reading the church newsletter or paying attention to announcements, you’re right.

If you’ve added emails, texts, and social media to the mix and still feel like you’re coming up short when you promote events, this episode is for you.

Communications and branding expert, Barbara Carneiro, shares how a shift in culture has had an impact and what we can do to be lightyears more effective.

Specific to small churches and requiring a budget of zero, this episode is packed full of wisdom and practical strategies you can get moving on today!

Listen in to hear:

Why we need to quit promoting every event the same
How today’s effective communication is more about trust than attention
What the “age of curation” means and why it matters to your ministry
How to make the path of information easier so people connect exactly where they need to

Connect with Barbara Carneiro:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/accidentalchurchcommunicators
https://www.wordrevolution.com/

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Support the show

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095: 5 Keys To Lead Children’s Ministry Well In Small Churches | with Sara Vojtaske

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0600

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 simplifying
Ways to maintain excellence, including showing up prepared
Ideas to create incredible atmosphere even in a multi-purpose space
Tips to build great relationships with children, parents, and volunteers
The critical need for training and who to include

Connect with Sara Vojtaske:
https://www.joelsvision.com/

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Support the show

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094: Understanding Trauma In The Pews & What It Means For Your Small Church | with Janyne McConnaughey

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0600

If I could choose just one podcast for every person in a small church to hear, it’s this one.

Speaker and author, Janyne McConnaughey, shares truth about trauma that has the potential to deepen your ministry whether you lead the women, volunteer with kids, or serve as the senior pastor.

Your church is filled with unhealed trauma, whether it sits silently in the pews or shows up in church conflict.

And the sad reality is that people with unhealed trauma rarely find help within the church.

Most healing journeys are not only started outside the church but remain there. Let’s change this!

Join us as we dive into a difficult conversation that’s both messy and beautiful.

Listen in for steps to welcome, receive, and journey with those recovering from trauma, including:

Understanding what trauma looks like and how prevalent it is in your own church
How healing from trauma is a deeply spiritual practice and how we can create safe spaces
What Post-Traumatic Spiritual Growth is and how it adds value to your church community
The importance of growing in our own healing and having connections with others who understand trauma

Connect with Janyne McConnaughey:
https://www.janyne.org/

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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093: How One Small Church Turned Their Passion For Foster Families Into Statewide Impact & Community Partnerships

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0600

When I hear stories of small churches having incredible community impact, I can’t wait for you to hear too.

Today’s guest, Adre Hurst, shares how one person’s passion for helping foster families led to statewide involvement with area churches and community organizations joining the effort.

Throughout this interview you’ll hear the story of Coalition Church in Supulpa, Oklahoma along with simple steps that could be a model for your next community outreach idea:

One person has a passion and shares it.
Coalition Church leadership asks, “How can we help?”
They look at the gifts in their church family and put together a plan.
They follow the plan.
Lives are changed.
Community organizations and other churches see the impact and offer to help.
Coalition Chuch accepts their help, forming partnerships & deepening relationships.
More lives are changed.

It’s yet another story of a small church doing big things! Be encouraged.

Connect with Adre Hurst:
https://www.facebook.com/TheCoalitionChurch/

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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092: Small Church Pastors: Shared Expectations, Support, & The Truth About Why They Aren’t Great At Everything

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0600

If you’ve ever been frustrated with the pastor, you’re not alone!

If you’re the pastor and you’ve been frustrated with the congregation, that’s a familiar story too.

Here’s the great news: although it’s common, it does not have to be your story, and it’s certainly not God’s design.

In today’s episode, Pastor Mark Muckler of Harvest Stone Ministries shares critical steps to get on the same page and serve together as the body of Christ.

Listen in to hear:

4 critical pastoral responsibilities and what they actually do the rest of the week
How the work of the church extends far beyond the pastor and why they can’t do it alone
Specific ways to support your pastor and help keep them serving in health and with longevity

Connect with Mark Muckler:
Harvest Stone Ministries - https://www.harveststoneministries.org/

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

Follow Us:
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Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/network/
The Small C

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091: Christmas Edition | Easy Tips For Set-Up And Decor That Draw People In To Experience God (Not Just Learn About Him)

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Listen in for a behind-the-scenes peek into one of our quarterly conferences for small churches, and learn how much your church environment matters.

Whether or not you consider yourself a creative, God created each and every one of us to be influenced by light, sound, color, texture, taste, and smell.

When it comes to Christmas (or any season!), learn how simple changes in your narthex, worship center, or Sunday School rooms can deepen your ministry impact by invoking curiosity and wonder, and deepening the experience for all.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

Quit decorating & create unforgettable experiences instead
Consider how to involve all 5 senses for more memorable and deeper learning
Identity and use what you have for incredible ministry at a lower cost
Embrace the less-is-more principle to keep people first

Follow Us:
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: https://smallchurchministry.com/network/
The Small Church Academy:

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090: Effective Outreach: Moving From Programs & Events To Outreach As A Lifestyle | with Ebonie Mukasa

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0600

If you’re looking for effective outreach ideas for your small church, join me as I talk with Ebonie Mukasa of Experience Church International in Miami, Florida.

While some might define effective outreach as bringing people into your local church, Ebonie defines effective outreach as taking the church out to the world.

She shares how teaching outreach as a lifestyle in your small church will change the people in your congregation from the inside out, erupting with kindness and living out the character of Christ.

Listen in to hear:

Why genuine outreach is always personal
The importance of giving without expecting something in return
How to liberate yourself to serve freely and trust God with the results

Get a FREE ticket to A Small Church Christmas Conference >> http://smallchurchsummits.com/

Connect with Ebonie Mukasa:
https://www.experiencechurchintl.org/
https://www.eboniemukasa.com/

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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089: Teaching Children In Smaller Settings & The Power Of Object Lessons | With Anne Marie Gosnell

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Teaching children in smaller settings can be tough, whether you’re a trained educator or brand new to the position.

In this episode, we unpack solutions to some specific challenges of teaching smaller numbers and mixed ages all in one space.

Joining us for the conversation is Anne Marie Gosnell. Anne Marie is a beloved author, speaker, educator, mentor, and ministry leader. In addition to formal titles and roles she’s held throughout 30+ years of ministry, she’s also been dubbed “The Object Lesson Queen” by many of her followers!

Listen in to hear about:

Specific challenges & solutions when teaching in smaller settings
The small church benefit of individualizing conversations and lessons
The best tips for amazing object lessons (& where to find them!)

Get a FREE ticket to A Small Church Christmas Conference >> http://smallchurchsummits.com/

Connect with Anne Marie Gosnell:
https://www.futureflyingsaucers.com/

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088: Secrets & Strategies To Avoid Ministry Burnout This Christmas

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Lots of people in small churches are anticipating a stressful Christmas.

Between family and friends as well as work and church, the pressures and the to-dos can seem overwhelming.

But it does not need to be so!

If you want to get off the rollercoaster this year and experience a little more peace during the holidays this year, listen in to hear:

5 strategies to avoid holiday burnout this year
Why “combine and conquer” works better than “divide and conquer” in smaller churches
8 personal habits to start practicing now for healthier ministry in December
Why pausing is a lot more productive than you think

Get your FREE ticket to A Small Church Christmas Conference >> https://smallchurchsummits.com/

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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087: The Power Of A Small Church Christmas: Do These 3 Things (No Burnout Required)

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Whether you’re used to running ragged in your small church at Christmastime – or maybe your church family takes a step back into more quietness – this episode is for you.

Listen in to hear why we need to enter the Christmas season with more intention and also with great expectation!

Not only is Christmas one of the biggest celebrations for Jesus-followers, but the world’s celebration of Christmas also opens opportunities for us to share Christ’s love in unique ways at Christmastime.

Let’s not miss it!

Listen in to hear:

Why the world’s take on Christmas actually leads to opportunity
How scaling back isn’t the only solution to holiday burnout
3 things to do this Christmas to increase your church impact

Get on the waitlist for A Small Church Christmas Conference >> https://smallchurchsummits.com/

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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086: Teaching Children In The Digital Age: What’s Different & How We Can Do Better | with Brittany Nelson

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Kids really are different these days - the way they connect, the way they think, and the way they process. In this episode, we’re talking with children’s ministry leader & founder of Deeper Kidmin. Brittany Nelson.

Listen in to learn:

What a digital native is and how can we do a better job reaching them
How to update your discipleship methods and strategy for greater effectiveness
Ways to communicate the timeless message of the gospel across the generations

Connect with Brittany Nelson:
https://deeperkidmin.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/deeperkidmin
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/deeperkidmin/
Grab Brittany's new book! - https://a.co/d/0hx7ObX

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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085: 3 Keys To Start (Or Restart) A Successful Ministry: Women, Children, Outreach, & More

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0600

If you're looking to start or restart a ministry - or if you’re wondering what’s holding back the ministry you have - this episode is for you.

We’re walking through the 3 undeniable keys to success in any ministry area in any small church.

Sadly, many small church ministries struggle and some never get off the ground because these 3 keys - working in tandem - weren’t part of the history.

Get ready to learn:

Why starting quickly is essential to keep the dream alive
Elements needed for a foundation that doesn’t waver with the next new idea or leader
How doing things alone is your quickest route to ministry failure
Where to find the most incredible resource that walks you step-by-step through ministry starts & restarts

Get the ministry bundles >> https://smallchurchministry.com/ministrybundles

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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084: Is A Grief Ministry Right For Your Small Church? With Karen Altizer

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Facts about grief:

Grief applies to every human at some point.
People look for comfort and support when they are grieving.
We’re called to comfort those who are grieving.
(and, sadly…) Most churches have no focused ministry to support people through grief.

In this episode, Karen Altizer shares how her personal experience with a program called GriefShare compelled her to continue the ministry and help others through their losses as well.

Listen in to hear how a small church with a small budget and a few volunteers can have an incredible impact not just in their church, but in their community as well.

Connect with Karen Altizer:
https://karenaltizer.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092603271345
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/karenaltizercoaching/

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083: Children’s Ministry In Small Churches: Prioritizing Relationships Over Programming With Tyler Bates

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0600

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 environment
Why birthday calls & handwritten cards should move up on your priority list
How making a difference in the life of one is absolutely worth your time

Connect with Tyler:
https://amazing.kids/
https://www.instagram.com/amazingkidscurriculum/

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If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this.

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082: Singles Ministry In Small Churches (We Need To Do Better) with Sabrina McDonald

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0600

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 ministry
Our terminology matters a lot (listen in for some common mistakes)
Asking the uncomfortable questions is often the catalyst to deeper ministry impact

Connect with Sabrina McDonald:
https://wordinseason.org/

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this.

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081: Why Loving Volunteers Well Is Infinitely More Important Than Recruiting | Becoming Series Part 5

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we wrap up our 5-part series where we’ve been unpacking how volunteer issues are almost always leadership issues - and why this is a great thing.

We have so much choice in how we lead and who we become along the way. Learning to lead while keeping people first yields long-term results that literally are out of this world.

Listen in for some keys to:

keep relationships before programs
model healthy ministry boundaries
move slower through change to preserve community
address conflict with love and not with silence

Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/network/
Pastors' Spouses Conference: https://smallchurchsummits.com/

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080: Is A Lack Of Volunteers Leading You To Solve The Wrong Problem? | Becoming Series Part 4

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0600

The most common struggle reported by small churches is a shortage of volunteers.

In this episode, we’re exploring how that lack of volunteers can send us spiraling to fix the wrong problem.

Listen in to hear how a great leader responds differently when facing the same lack, and what you can do to become the person who’s calm and forward-moving when others would panic and blame.

Come learn:

Why being short on volunteers doesn’t need to be a problem at all
How to turn your focus to the problem that’s worth solving first
Why it’s essential to stop reacting to start responding
Six questions to ask to move toward a creative solution

Pastors' Spouses Conference: https://smallchurchsummits.com/

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079: Why Empathy Might Be The Missing Factor In Your Volunteer Equation | Becoming Series Part 3

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 03:00:00 -0600

When it comes to working with volunteers, building great connections can make the difference between long-term frustration and a loyal, committed team.

Too often, churches jump right into sign-up sheets instead of building meaningful relationships.

Looking at the life of Jesus, it’s hard to miss the amazing way He connected with people - all people. He connected with the prostitute, tax collectors, and pharisee alike.

Becoming more like Jesus in this area is a critical element in better team-building, and empathy is at the foundation.

Listen in for …

Empathy defined and why it’s essential in a healthy volunteer culture
How not experiencing empathy limits our own capacity for relational connection
5 specific responses to avoid if you want to build relationships like Jesus
5 empathetic responses to try for deeper connections & real care

*These 5 Sympathetic Responses & 5 Empathetic Responses above were found in an online article called Emotional Intelligence101: Empathetic Responses by Shawn Chang. November 7, 2022, found on The University of British Columbia website. Check it out for further reading: https://students.ubc.ca/ubclife/emotional-intelligence-101-empathetic-responses

Pastors' Spouses Conference: https://smallchurchsummits.com/

Follow Us:
Website: https://smallchurchminis

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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078: Every Volunteer Is Worth This | Becoming Series Part 2

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0600

If you’re wondering which volunteers are worth your time, this is for you.

In this episode, we’re taking a look at what God had in mind when He created His church and what you can do to be His ambassador as you serve.

Whether you are a pastor, ministry leader, or volunteer, listen in to catch the 2nd critical belief that helps lay the foundation for a healthy volunteer culture in your small church.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry

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Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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077: Volunteer Issues Are Almost Always Leadership Issues | Becoming Series Part 1

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 03:00:00 -0600

If your church struggles with volunteers, you’re not alone! In fact, it’s the number one frustration we hear at Small Church Ministry.

Sadly, most small churches never see the change they desire because they think the solution is to find better volunteers.

(Spoiler alert: It’s not!)

Over the next few episodes, we’ll talk about why the drive to find better volunteers is not only backward but it’s based on wrong beliefs. Only once we get our beliefs in line, our action steps get clear and more effective too.

In Part 1 of our Becoming Series, we’ll talk about …

Why it's easy (& totally not helpful) to fall into the blame game
Why taking responsibility for your personal growth is the key to increasing your ministry results
The first belief you need to embrace before you can move toward the results you want to see
How you can help shape your church volunteer culture even if you’re “just” a volunteer

Start your 30-Day FREE Trial of the Small Church Network & Academy:
www.smallchurchministry.com/network

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Support the show

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076: Anniversary Edition: 5 Steps To Turn Milestones Into Celebrations That Propel You Forward

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 17:00:00 -0600

As we celebrate our 3rd Anniversary supporting small churches, we want to take you behind the scenes into our monthly Small Church Network Event.

Enjoy this live snippet from the mainstage as we talk about how to get more impact from church celebrations.

We’re unpacking 5 keys to make that happen, including:

Why it’s important to get really detailed on exactly what you’re celebrating
How to honor the past well - even in the challenges
3 ways to maximize engagement for greater impact
Why incorporating future vision is pivotal at any celebration
The importance of extending the invitation to join the next steps

If you love the podcast you’ll love the Small Church Network & Academy.
www.smallchurchministry.com/network

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075: 3 Steps To Turn The Summer Volunteer Slump Into A Season To Remember

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 12:00:00 -0600

If summer at your church yields a volunteer slump, you’re not alone!

Many churches experience lower summer numbers that often lead to feelings of frustration and discouragement.

But the great news is: It doesn’t have to be this way!

Listen in for three tips to make this summer’s ministry season amazing along with:

The best mindset to adopt for a purposeful summer
How a small church’s ability to pivot can be your best sumer move
Why summer is the perfect time to focus on these three things

The Small Church Network & Academy: www.smallchurchministry.com/network

The Prayer Box by Lisa Wingate: https://smallchurchministry.com/podcast/episode075/

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074: Are You Too Busy In Ministry?

Tue, 30 May 2023 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we’re taking a time out for a heart check.

While we are committed to teaching proven strategies for successful small church ministry, we also know how easy it is to become so focused on doing ministry that we neglect our own walk with Christ.

Don’t let the busyness of ministry draw you away from the very reason we’re all here, to begin with. Take a slow, deep breath and consider if it’s time for a little rest and reconnection with Jesus.

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073: Better Websites For Small Churches With Marc Hyde (5 Things To Fix)

Tue, 23 May 2023 03:00:00 -0600

In today’s world, websites are more about building connections than sharing information.

Unfortunately, most small churches haven’t gotten that memo! If your biggest website woe is keeping information up to date, listen in for what you might be missing.

Founder of Small Church Media website & podcast, Marc Hyde, shares 5 website mistakes most small churches make and how to increase your impact instead.

Listen in for:

How setting up a (free) Google business profile will help more people find your church
What kind of photos you should feature and which ones you should avoid
The importance of a “plan your visit” section
Why a lead magnet might be more effective than a visitor welcome gift

Visitor Pipelines
Types of Photos Your Church Needs
Best Website Practices

Connect with Marc Hyde:
https://smallchurch.media
https://www.instagram.com/tmarchyde/

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Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/
Instagram: h

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072: What Are You Doing About Missions? With Reno Anderson

Tue, 16 May 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Involvement in missions comes in many forms, from sponsoring children and adopting missionaries to short-term trips and long-term support.

Listen as guest Reno Anderson shares how her family sponsoring a child led her to start a non-profit and build a girls’ school in Malawi.

Whether you’re curious about being more involved in missions as an individual or you want to keep the spark alive in your small church, this story is for you!

Don’t miss this episode if:

You’re considering a short-term missions trip for your church
You wonder what your small church could or should do in the areas of global missions
You’ve felt called to missions individually but aren’t sure how to take the first step

Connect with Reno Anderson:
www.thefew.world
reno.anderson@gmail.com

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Support the show

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071: Outreach 101: How One Small Church Went From Feeding One To Feeding Hundreds Every Week | With Shineka Dixon

Tue, 09 May 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Quit wondering how your small church can impact your community and listen in for 3 simple ways to meet real needs nearby.

Shineka Dixon shares 3 separate strategies of community outreach that were born out of seeing a need and meeting it.

Listen in to hear how to:

Host a Community Day to build bridges in your community
Hold a Community Giveaway to bless individuals who give as well as those who receive
Start your own drive-through food pantry with a few simple steps

Check out the Small Church Network

Connect with Shineka Dixon:
https://shinekadixon.org/
https://www.facebook.com/shineka.dixon

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070: Stop Looking For The Perfect Program (& What Matters A Whole Lot More)

Tue, 02 May 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Enjoy a peek into the opening mainstage talk of the Small Church KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference. If you’re in a small church, no matter what ministry, let this message speak to your heart.

Listen in to hear …

What a much-overlooked Bible verse has to do with small church ministry
Why even the best curriculum will have zero impact if you don’t have this to give
What (I believe) Jesus is really thinking when He looks at you

Grab the replays from the Small Church Kidmin + Youth Ministry Conference

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069: Small Youth Groups, Mighty Ministry | With Youth Pastor Don Joel

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0600

When Don Joel went from Youth Pastor to Senior Pastor, he didn’t plan to go back - but he couldn’t shake his calling to youth ministry.

If you’ve got a small youth group and you want to maximize your impact, listen in.

Youth Pastor Don Joel shares;

Why we need to stop treating kids like kids & treat them like disciples instead.
How to successfully combine smaller youth groups together for occasional events
While critical mass is great for lock-ins, small youth groups have benefits to offer that large ones don’t

Get your FREE ticket to the Small Church Kidmin + Youth Ministry Conference

Connect with Don Joel:
https://arbucklecommunity.church/
http://geekbeliever.co/

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"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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068: Children & Youth Ministry In Small Churches: What’s The Pastor Got To Do With It? | With Ryan David Sims

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Small church pastors are busy balancing lots of priorities. Where should children & youth fit in the picture?

Pastor Ryan David Sims shares his experience and perspective mixed with some incredible wisdom for churches everywhere. Whether you’re the pastor or the volunteer, this episode is for you.

Listen in to hear:

Why prioritizing children and youth matter even if you have only 2
How excellence in kids ministry can lead to greater adult involvement
Actionable tips on how to get your pastor’s ear and more support for the youth program
Encouragement for small church pastors and ministry leaders everywhere

Get your FREE ticket to the Small Church Kidmin + Youth Ministry Conference

Connect with Ryan David Sims:
www.revelationcogicla.com/

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Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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067: Try This If You Want Kids To Remember What You Teach With Joy Wendling

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Join this conversation about kids in small churches with Ministry Leader & Parenting Coach Joy Wendling.

If you’re wondering how to make the biggest impact in the life of children, whether you’re a Sunday School teacher, greeter, or grandparent, this episode is for you.

We’re talking about:

Kids running in the hallways
Behavior issues in class
How children, youth, and even adults learn best

Get ready to hear why your curriculum matters less than you think and how anyone can increase their teaching skillset by engaging in 3 simple things in the classroom.

Get your FREE ticket to the Small Church Kidmin + Youth Ministry Conference

Connect with Joy Wendling:

www.createdtoplay.com
www.createdtoplay.com/podcast

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"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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066: If You’re "Just" A Volunteer, You Can Do More Than You Think

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Most small churches struggle with finding and developing volunteers. Current volunteers are stretched and new ones seem hard to come by.

Have you taken steps to find a ministry partner for your area or to train your replacement?

Sometimes finding just one can start a new trend in your volunteer culture. Instead of wondering why your pastor or ministry leader isn’t doing a better job getting more volunteers, here are a few steps you can take to be part of the solution.

Listen in for:

4 questions to ask & lists to make before inviting someone to help
Why it’s important to invite possible volunteers in to check it out before asking for a commitment
Tips for setting volunteers up to succeed from the start

KidMin + Youth Ministry Conference Coming Soon!

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"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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065: Streaming, Church Planting, & Healthy Ministry With Phil Thompson

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0600

Join me for a conversation with Phil Thompson as we talk about streaming before and after Covid, his experience with church planting, and why “burning out for Jesus” is a terrible idea.

In addition to working in ministry for decades as a missionary, pastor, and church planter, Phil Thompson is the VP & Streaming Specialist with StreamingChurch.tv.

We’re chatting about:

The importance of streaming your church service before and after the pandemic
Why you should post church services on your own website (and not just on YouTube or Facebook)
How shorter clips of your worship services are more effective than the whole (and easier than you think to edit)
Why burning out for Jesus is a terrible idea.

Connect with Phil Thompson:

Church Solutions Podcast with Phil Thompson & Steve Lacy
blog.streamingchurch.tv
streamingchurchtv.com

Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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064: Why We Chose To Be A For-Profit Ministry (& What That Even Means)

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we’re taking a little sidestep from small church tools and strategies to answer a few frequently asked questions that land in our inboxes. If you’re curious about the answers to questions like these, listen in for a peek behind the curtain.

We’ll be talking about why ...

we chose to be a for-profit ministry and what that means
some of our resources cost money and some are free
we work and what our business looks likes
the “Be a light” closing came from

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063: Why Stepping Away From Ministry Is A Necessity Not A Luxury

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0600

The small church culture of burning people out for Jesus needs an overhaul. It’s not healthy and it’s not biblical. If it’s been a while since you’ve had a break - and maybe you don’t think it’s even possible - please listen in. And if you lead a team of volunteers, I implore you to lead the way by example. We need more healthy people in small churches. Exhaustion and burnout do not need to be part of serving. In fact, they are a sign of unhealth.

This episode is for if ...

you want to lead better
you want permission to take a break
you’re curious about what rhythms of rest could look like
you think taking time off doesn’t fit into your story

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week!

062: Interdenominational Events & Partnerships: Tips To Keep The Focus On Who Unites Us Instead Of What Divides Us | With Amy Satterfield

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 03:00:00 -0700

If you’ve ever wondered how to successfully pull off an interdenominational event, listen in as Amy Satterfield shares how sending out 4 cold emails to 4 different churches led to a 10-year tradition of an interdenominational event series involving over 40 churches throughout an entire county.

Along with testimonies of changed lives and relationships, Amy talks about:

Why sharing the ministry is more effective than sponsoring an event
How rotating churches for meeting space is a key element in breaking down barriers
The beauty of ending each gathering with the Lord’s Prayer

Click here to read Amy’s detailed plan: An Easy Plan To Host An Interdenominational Women’s Event In Your Community

Join the Small Church Academy

Connect with Amy Satterfield
amy@smallchurchministry.com
https://www.facebook.com/amy.e.satterfield

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"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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061: Ministry "In The Middle" With Dee Bryce: Lessons Of Perseverance

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0700

Do you have a vision for your ministry?

If there’s a gap between where you are and where you want to be, you’re not alone. In fact, God designed it this way.

There’s always a middle part between a starting point and an end goal. Oftentimes in ministry, that “middle part” doesn’t go super-smoothly, as planned, or without obstacles.

As frustrating as it can be, there’s no way to leap that gap - and we shouldn’t want to. God does some of His deepest work in this “middle part” of ministry.

Can you imagine how different ministry would feel …

If quitting in the middle was never an option?
If we knew for certain that God was preparing the way?
If instead of crying “failure,” we figured out what God was doing, teaching, and revealing?

Join the conversation with Dee Bryce of Olive Branch Community Church as she shares about God at work in the midst of a season when it seemed all their ministry dreams were being stripped away.

Connect with Dee Bryce
https://www.olive-branch.org.uk/

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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060: 3 Simple Steps To Innovative Community Outreach | With Miles Larson

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0700

If you’re wondering what your next outreach event should be for your small church, join this conversation about innovative ways to uncover community needs you might have never considered.

Miles Larson, Director of Pastoral and Congregational Vitality of the Brethren Church, shares a bit of his story along with ...

3 elements that can help your small church find its unique calling to outreach
How to conduct community listening sessions to uncover needs and deepen relationships
Your next step in responding to needs, based on congregation skills and passion areas

Connect with Miles Larson
miles@brethrenchurch.org
https://www.brethrenchurch.org/

Small Church Network
https://smallchurchministry.com/network/

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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059: Close To Home: How Small Churches Can Make An Impact In Diaspora Missions | Special Guest Tim Rickel

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0700

Diaspora (from the word “dispersed”) refers to people living outside their home country.

This term holds true for more people today than at any other time in history. From big to small, many cities worldwide are becoming international centers.

Whether relocation is forced (war, famine, natural disaster, political persecution, etc.) or voluntary (education, economics, career opportunity, etc.), leaving a homeland comes with incredible stress, difficult adjustment, and unanticipated needs.

Walking through our communities raises the question: Has the mission field come to us?

Listen in to a conversation with Tim Rickel, Lead Diaspora Project Director for World Gospel Mission, and hear about the opportunity small churches have for a cross-cultural ministry without ever leaving home.

Connect with Tim Rickel at World Gospel Mission
https://www.wgm.org

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this.

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058: Small Churches & Global Missions: How To Build True Partnerships | Jeff & Christine Stanfield From World Gospel Mission

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 03:00:00 -0700

From nearby communities to faraway lands, small churches can have an incredible impact on global missions.

In this episode, Jeff & Christine Stanfield of World Gospel Mission share their experiences with small churches throughout their decades of missionary service. From their time in Africa to now living stateside, their heart for missions remains constant.

Whether your church is already deep in supporting missionaries or just exploring the possibility, listen in to learn a few common mistakes to avoid and how to get started in building stronger partnerships.

Connect with Jeff & Christine Stanfield:
https://www.wgm.org
jeff.stanfield@wgm.org
christine.stanfield@wgm.org

Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/network/

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057: Spreading Peace In Nepal | A Small Church Conversation With Charmaine Stulp

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0700

Acts 1:8 declares, “... and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Does this hold true for small churches too?

Join us for a series of conversations about missions and small churches.

In this first conversation, Charmaine Stulp from Ontario, Canada shares her experience with the Nepal PEACE Project, including her personal visit to a remote part of Nepal.

Whether your small church is involved in missions or desires to be, listen in as Charmaine shares her insight including:

The increased impact of developing partners over coordinating disconnected projects
How an all-too-common “savior complex” gets in the way of true global partnerships
Three types of givers exist, defined by what deeply moves our hearts

Nepal PEACE Project: https://nepalpeaceproject.com/

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056: How To Facilitate A Bible Study When You Don’t Know Enough (& Why That Actually Might Be A Good Thing)

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0700

Many people in small churches find themselves in positions of leadership - sometimes accidentally and sometimes by default. Leading Bible Studies is no exception.

Whether you’re a seasoned leader or brand new to leading a small group, join me for some tips on facilitating a group, and why I think knowing too much can sometimes be a hindrance.

Join in to hear:

Why the best facilitators are sometimes the least expected
How knowing all the answers might be holding others back from deeper learning
A few tips on getting better engagement in a small group
Why the most important question you can ask is “Now what?”

Women's Ministry For Small Churches Conference: https://smallchurchsummits.com/

Episode Transcript: https://smallchurchministry.com/podcast/episode056/

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055: Level Up Your Women’s Ministry: How To Move From Fluff To Life-Change

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0700

From craft nights to tea parties and social events to Bible studies, lots of women’s ministries are busy filling calendars and wondering why they are seeing little transformation.

If your heart is crying out “Enough already!”, take a step back with me to envision a new way of ministering to women.

In this episode we’ll talk about:

Why planning your calendar full of events might not be the best use of resources
How we can model a bit more after Jesus by changing our focus from the group to the individual
Why our hyper-focus on the roles of wife and mother might be limiting our impact

Women's Ministry For Small Churches Conference: https://smallchurchsummits.com/

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"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now!

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054: "Among you as one who serves" | An Interview With A Small Church Bivocational Pastor, Tony Bryce

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0700

In this episode, Pastor Tony Bryce of Olive Branch Community Church in Bradford, West Yorkshire, England shares his journey from itinerant ministry to bi-vocational pastoral leadership of a church plant.

Listen in to hear Pastor Tony’s heart on:

How the truth of the Bible extends beyond eternal salvation to be helpful & practical in all aspects of our lives
Why he prefers being bi-vocational and how that has helped shape his pastoral role
How being nimble is a unique gift in small churches that allows us to join God when He surprises us and goes “off script”
Thoughts on encouraging and equipping others to share in significant ministry to one another

Connect with Pastor Tony & Dee Bryce:
https://www.olive-branch.org.uk/

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053: Is Your Small Church Called To Big Impact? | A Conversation With Reverend Timothy Jackson

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 03:00:00 -0700

If your small church has a big vision, there’s no reason to wait on growth to embrace what God has for you. And if your small church doesn’t have a vision for impact, it’s time to think bigger!

Reverend Timothy Jackson of Impact Living Ministry in Minneapolis, MN, shares the story of his small church’s journey to become problem-solvers and institution-builders in their city. His energy is contagious and his insight encouraging.

Listen in to hear:

Why you don’t need to grow in church membership to have an incredible Kingdom impact
How becoming part of your community is an essential step for every church body
Biblical truth about ministry success when you’re disappointed by your numbers

Connect with Reverend Timothy Jackson:
https://impactlivingministry.org/
pastortim@impactlivingcc.org

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052: A (Re)Solution For Competing For Dates & Volunteers In Your Small Church

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0700

Small churches have limited volunteers and limited dates on the calendar.

If you ever find yourself vying for dates or feeling like your ministry got the short end of the stick, listen in for a little bit of a reframe.

Sometimes we need to let go of the way we’ve always done things in order to grab onto something better.

In this episode we’ll be talking about:

How your ministry area can gain support & grow superfans with a few little tweaks this year
A new way to look at carpooling and how it applies to small church ministry
How to save energy and conserve resources while increasing your ministry impact

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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051: Are You A Small Church Where People Gather Or Where People Connect? | A Conversation With Kristen Joy

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0700

A small church is a place where everyone knows your name. If you’re in a small church, you know it’s nearly impossible to be anonymous.

However, greater than being seen is being known, accepted, and cherished. While our relationships in the church aren’t immune from disappointment, misunderstanding, and even sinful intentions, God calls us beyond the hurt to restoration, connection, and love above all.

Join the conversation with Mental Health & Ministry Coach, Kristen Joy, as we talk about:

Experiencing God’s delight in us as individuals
Creating relational safety in the church
Getting closer to the interpersonal connection God designed us for

Connect with Kristen Joy:
https://theministrywifecoach.com/

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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050: Social Media & Small Churches: Why It Matters & How To Do It Better With Sheila Chester

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0700

If you’ve wondered how to use social media best for your small church, you’re not alone.

Join me in a conversation with Sheila Chester, a marketing manager for several small churches in the Denver Metro area. Raised in a small rural church and now part of a smaller church in a big city, Sheila talks about the real reason social media presence matters for all churches and how understanding the purpose behind your posting is key.

Listen in to hear:

Top social media mistakes that small churches make and how to avoid them
Two main reasons social media presence matters for every small church
Why Facebook ads might not be your best strategy for outreach
Tips on what to post and how often for the greatest impact

Connect with Sheila Chester:
www.sheilakchester.com

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this.

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049: When Volunteers Are Faithful | Responding To Volunteers Part 4

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 03:00:00 -0700

Most of us have had times when we’ve neglected people around us - people who are important to us, people we love. In small churches, this often looks like our core volunteers, founding member families, and pastors too.

In this episode, we’re taking a look at two responses to faithful volunteers that make the biggest impact and cost nothing out of your budget.

We’re moving beyond appreciation and recognition to talk about two responses that have the potential to transform your ministry culture.

33 Questions To Ask For Deeper Conversations At Church >> https://smallchurchministry.com/questions-for-deeper-conversations-at-church/

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Support the show

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If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this.

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048: “We’ve Always Done It This Way” | Responding To Volunteers Part 3

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0700

Dealing with volunteers who aren’t open to new ideas is tough, and no church is immune to this one!

When volunteers only want to do things “the way they’ve always been done,” it often causes division, strained relationships, and missed opportunities. While a leader with a vision may find ways to push forward anyway, oftentimes the newer, creative volunteers give up trying, and might even find another place to take their passion.

In this episode, we’ll talk about:

The gift behind “we’ve always done it this way”
How to honor those who’ve been there long enough to say it
What to do if the ministry leader is the one who doesn’t want change

Check out our upcoming conferences >> https://smallchurchministry.com/conferences

Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/network/

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes I release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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047: When Volunteers Commit But Don’t Show Up | Responding To Volunteers Part 2

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0700

If you’re wondering how to respond to volunteers who commit but don’t show up, you’re not alone.

Whether it’s a one-time thing, becoming a habit, or a pervasive issue in your ministry area or church, listen in to learn:

Why an immediate response is a lot more effective than ignoring it
The importance of having a pre-set policy for unexpected cancellations
How difficult conversations can actually deepen relationships when they are filled with grace

Support the show

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046: “Been There, Done That” | Responding To Volunteers Part 1

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0700

If you haven’t heard “been there, done that” in a small church, you’re the exception!

For some, it’s the most frustrating response when trying to find a volunteer. It also can be a really awkward comment to respond to.

As we jump into another series about volunteers in small churches, join in to hear:

How making their “YES” your goal is a terrible idea
Why your response to their “NO” has more ministry impact than you can imagine
What a jigsaw puzzle has to do with the family of God
The 2-point best response to “Been There, Done That’

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045: Sneak Peek Into The Live Launch Party Of The Small Church Network

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 15:00:00 -0700

When people in small churches reach out to find encouragement, network with area churches, or look for practical solutions, it can be super discouraging.

It’s pretty rare to find a group of people who really get small church ministry, are forward-thinking, are filled with hope, and recognize small church ministry for the unique ministry it is.

If you’ve heard the buzz, it’s true!

We just launched the first-ever, interdenominational, global network for small churches - for pastors, volunteers, ministry leaders, and more. Listen in for a sneak peek into the live Launch Party for The Small Church Network.

We’d love to have you join us and:

Connect with people in small churches committed to impacting their community
Grow in ministry and leadership skills with monthly training specific to small church ministry
Bring all the goodness back to your church to reignite the passion and invite others in too

Listen in to hear the vision. We’re all in this together and getting stronger too, as iron sharpens iron. Join us!

Small Church Network >> https://smallchurchministry.com/network

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes I release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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044: Why Volunteers Really Say “NO” (& What to Do About It)

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 11:00:00 -0600

If you hear a lot of NOs when you’re looking for volunteers, you’re not alone.

Trying to run small church programs with limited volunteers is a challenge whether you’re a church plant or established, an older church or younger one, in the city, country, suburb, or sandwiched in between two mega-churches.

Instead of letting the NOs dim your hope, erode your passion, or exhaust your energy, listen in to hear how you can experience God’s grace and compassion in the midst of it all instead.

We’ll be talking about:

8 reasons volunteers say NO (& why being busy is not one of them)
The three most destructive responses to NOs & how to avoid them
Why compassion is a lot more productive than judgment
A reasonable alternative to doing it yourself when there’s no one else to do it

Register for The Volunteer Journey Workshop >> https://smallchurchministry.ck.page/volunteerjourney

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes I release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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043: What Everyone's Talking About: Never-Before-Seen Help & Hope for Small Churches

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 17:00:00 -0600

In this special episode, we’re taking a peek into stories of hope from our conference for small churches last weekend plus sharing about our next “best thing!”

On the heels of this event, we’re excited to open the doors to the Small Church Network!

Listen in to hear how Small Church Ministry has been impacting churches with community, support, and resources, and learn how you can be part of this global movement of small churches growing in impact.

The Small Church Network offers:

An ongoing community for support, led by small churches for small churches
Monthly training, both live and recorded, to share within your local congregation
Opportunities for breakout discussions, co-working, and mentorship
Live gatherings in multiple timezones for regional and global access
And lots more

Check out the Small Church Ministry Network >> https://smallchurchministry.com/network/
Check out our future conference dates >> https://smallchurchsummits.com/waitlist/

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes I release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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042: The Most Affordable, Flexible Worship App For Small Teams & No Teams With Zarc Porter | Worship & Tech Series Part 8

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Today we’re talking about the most affordable and flexible app that we’ve found for churches looking at options for:

lyric projection
adding fuller sound to your regular worship
help for no song leaders or missing instruments
solutions for no band at all

Whether you’re a “push play” kind of person or you’re looking for flexibility to add more dynamics to what you’re already doing, join the conversation with Zarc Porter from The Worship Zone as he shares about the ISingWorship app. Zarc is an award-winning music producer and songwriter with an incredible ministry to small churches.

Connect with Zarc Porter here:
https://www.theworshipzone.com/
https://www.isingworship.com/

Get on the invite list to our Worship + Tech Conference in October 2022!

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes I release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Follow Us:
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 Summits: https://smallchurchsummits.com/
The Small Church Academy:

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041: What’s A Blue Christmas Service? (& Why We Might Need It More This Year Than Ever) | Worship & Tech Series Part 7

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0600

As Christmas tunes and holiday decor start making their way into retail stores, more people than ever are struggling with loneliness, depression, & conflicting emotions.

“Happy Holidays” and “Christmas Cheer'' stand in stark contrast with the honest emotions many people experience during this season: loneliness, grief, and depression.

It’s no mystery that holiday months are some of the most difficult for people who have suffered loss; in fact, many avoid church during this time. Small churches have an incredible opportunity to step into this season where dark and light so obviously coexist.

Tune in to hear:

How church often makes holidays worse for people
How to welcome both happy and sad this holiday season
How acknowledging loss doesn’t diminish, but actually heightens the Light of Christmas
Where the Blue Christmas Service came from
How to make a Blue Christmas Service fit your community

12 Ideas to Reach Out to the Hurting This Thanksgiving, Advent, and Christmas >> https://smallchurchministry.com/church-outreach-ideas-thanksgiving-advent-christmas/
A Blue Christmas Service Makes Space for Healing & Hope during the Holidays >> https://smallchurchministry.com/blue-christmas-service/
Get the Done-For-You Blue Christmas >> https://smallchurchministry.com/christmas

Get on the invite list to our Worship + Tech Conference in October 2022!

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes I release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out.

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040: Basic Tech For Small Churches With Darin Elquist | Worship & Tech Series Part 6

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 03:00:00 -0600

In this episode, small church pastor and tech guy, Darin Elquist, shares why more people should get their hands on the soundboard in your church.

After getting scolded for playing with the church soundboard when he was 12, Darin went on to become a proficient tech guy and a musician too. Darin has extensive experience in live sound reinforcement and other areas of tech, but sound is where he feels most at home.

Darin has worked large events and small, with experience in modifying, repairing, and installing sound equipment in all kinds of places; however, he specializes in helping small churches get the sound they need, not only for worship services but other needs as well.

Listen in as Darin shares …

How to avoid the top mistakes many small churches are making
Why you might want to get a better mic before you replace your soundboard
How to know if your sound issues are caused by the people running it or the actual equipment
The top qualities to look for in your next sound and tech trainee

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039: How To Teach Yourself Tech When There’s No One Around To Learn From - With Matt Hernando | Worship & Tech Series Part 5

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Join us as Matt Hernando shares some of his biggest lessons learned in tech ministry, including how he went from being willing with no experience to becoming the one who trains others to serve.

Matt is the Multimedia Ministry Leader at Crossings Church Innerbelt, a church plant in St. Louis, Missouri.

Listen in to hear...

What motivates him to keep serving
How you can overcome a few of the biggest challenges in small church tech
Why great tech ministry requires practice, just like baseball

Connect with Matt!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matthernando
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nodoubthernando/
Website: https://mattchernando.medium.com/

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038: Reading, Response, & Reflection Find Their Place In Modern Worship | Worship & Tech Series Part 4

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Instead of hunting for the next perfect worship song to deepen your worship service, consider adding extra intention with readings, responses, and reflections.

Spoken and silent worship elements have a way of engaging minds and wills in addition to our hearts. For some, the idea of responsive readings and other spoken forms of worship are limited to traditional worship settings, but that couldn't be farther from the truth.

Listen in to hear ….

How to use spoken & silent worship elements effectively in modern worship as well as traditional settings
Why authentically spoken worship elements can be more effective at engaging millennials than hip, new worship songs
How reading elements can be the bridge between the team on the stage and the people in the seats
Why personal response is a bigger indication of worship engagement than corporate volume

Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/network

Get on the invite list to our Worship + Tech Conference happening in October 2022!

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"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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037: Why Aren’t They Singing? Zarc Porter Shares Tips For More Engaged Worship | Worship & Tech Series Part 3

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0600

If you wish your congregation would sing out more or you’re looking for ways to engage your congregation in deeper worship, this episode is for you.

Worship leader & award-winning music producer, Zarc Porter, joins us from the UK to share the lessons he’s learned over years of worship leading. He tackles the uniqueness of small church worship leading with not only great tips but some perspective shifts that get at the heart of worship.

Listen in to hear...

Why the right song in the wrong key is a huge mistake (& how to choose the right one)
Tips to minimize distractions from the platform
How everything changes when the congregation becomes the lead worshipper

Connect with Zarc Porter here:
https://www.theworshipzone.com/
https://www.isingworship.com/

Get on the invite list to our Worship + Tech Conference happening in October 2022!

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Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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036: What To Do When Worship Feels Stagnant In Small Churches | Worship & Tech Series Part 2

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 03:00:00 -0600

If Sunday music feels a bit stale in your small church, listen in for some ways to lead people deeper into worship no matter what worship style or size of your team.

When we start believing we need better music, a bigger band, or more talented singers, we’re not thinking right. Worship goes way beyond music.

While music can certainly contribute to great worship for many people, we don’t need music to worship. In fact, for some people, music will never be the primary way they connect with God or experience His presence. And that’s okay.

Tune in to this episode to hear …

That leading worship is not the same as worshipping in front of people
Why worship leading is less about you and more about them
How changing the worship style of your congregation might not be what they need
Creative ways to help non-singers worship God on Sundays apart from music

Come Thou Fount: A Creative Worship Response

Get on the invite list to our Worship + Tech Conference happening in October 2022!

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Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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035: 5 Keys To Develop A Worship Team When There’s No One To Recruit | Worship & Tech Series Part 1

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Developing a worship team In a small church can seem impossible when there are no singers, musicians, or sound engineers in sight.

While big churches can put out a call for team members and move forward with a selection process, small churches face a different challenge - and a much greater opportunity.

Here’s the difference: people in small churches aren’t recruiters; we’re developers. Whether you lead hymns or praise, organ or electric guitar, song leader or worship team, tune in for this series on worship & tech ministry in small churches.

In Part 1 of our Worship & Tech in Small Churches Series, we’ll be talking about …

The difference between recruiting & developing (& why you need to make the shift)
How to wait well, including what worship looks like when all the pieces you want aren’t in place
Creating environments for church members to experience & experiment with music
Equipping others to develop gifts that you don’t have and you can’t teach
Setting people up for success instead of failure and frustration

Get on the invite list to our Worship + Tech Conference happening in October 2022!

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"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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034: Leading in Small Churches: What Makes it Different and How to Do it Best

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 15:00:00 -0600

Leading well in small churches requires a unique set of skills. In fact, excellent small church strategies look very different from those in large church settings.

One of the troubles arising in many church leadership programs and organizations today is that the majority are led by leaders of large churches trying to teach those in small churches how to do ministry better.

While the motivation is beautiful, the impact is limited and sometimes even detrimental.

Small church ministry isn’t simply less or smaller ministry; it is a different kind of ministry that requires specialized skills and considerations.

If you want to level up your leadership in small churches, the best place to learn is from successful small church leaders.

Listen in to hear:

Why small churches are positioned to change the planet
The distinct differences in small churches that affect leadership needs
6 skills that the best small church leaders possess
How you can become a better leader for your small church

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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033: One Best Solution To Bridge Generation Gaps In Women’s (Or Men’s) Ministry

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0600

If you struggle with involving the younger generation in your women’s ministry, you’re not alone.

In fact, in most ministry areas, there’s a certain type of person who shows up and quite a few others who stay on the sidelines.

If you want to broaden your reach, listen in to hear how involving others in the planning process might just bring the change you’ve been hoping for.

In this episode, we’ll talk about …

Two main reasons people want to involve the uninvolved
Why humility and love are more important than great event planning
How planning parties work to grow your reach and how to throw one of your own
Which 4 ingredients you can’t skip if you want people to feel heard and valued

Women's Ministry Bundle >> https://smallchurchministry.com/womens-ministry-bundle/
A 4-Week Plan to Start (Or Restart) a Women’s Ministry with 7 Easy Steps >> https://smallchurchministry.com/how-to-start-a-womens-ministry/
Sign-Up For The Free 5-Day Challenge >> https://smallchurchministry.com/

Follow Us:
Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry
Creative Solu

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032: Church Growth For Small Churches: Dealing With Feelings Of Failure When What You’re Doing Isn’t Working

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Today we’re taking a look at what to do with feelings of disappointment, frustration, and failure - when everything you’re doing isn’t working and your efforts to bring new people in aren’t paying off.

We’ll be talking about …

Why your feelings do matter and how they do have more of an impact than you think
A few of the most damaging and unbiblical statements we all should stop repeating
How a few corrections in your view of “church” might make all the difference

Sign-Up For The Free 5-Day Challenge >> https://smallchurchministry.com/

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"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people, just like you, in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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Small Church Summits: https://smallchurchsummits.com/
The Small Church Academy: https://thesmallchurchacademy.com/

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031: Healthy Expectations for Pastors In Small Churches (& What You Might Be Doing Wrong)

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 03:00:00 -0600

What exactly should pastors in small churches be doing to earn their keep? And who gets to decide this anyway?

Today we’re talking about power struggles, job descriptions, and why a calling shouldn’t resemble indentured servitude.

In this episode join me to talk about …

How to solve personnel issues before they erupt like a volcano spewing deadly lava
Why labeling personnel conflict as a spiritual attack might be holding back growth on all sides (and personal responsibility too)
And for pastors on the brink, you might get a little clarity to stay or to go

Serve Well Study >> https://thecreativelittlechurch.vipmembervault.com/products/courses/view/1135356/?action=signup

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people, just like you, in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Follow Us:
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 Summits: https://smallchurchsummits.com/
The Small Church Academy: https://thesmallchurchacademy.com/

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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030: How To Build Widespread Support for Stronger Child Safety in Your Small Church

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Most people on the planet would agree that, of course, we want to keep our children safe. And yet, when many small churches try to put current best safety practices in place for their nursery, children’s Sunday school, or KidMin, they’re often met with resistance.

Questions like these popup, with a lot of emotion attached: “Are all these policies really necessary?” “Why do I need a background check when I've been teaching Sunday School for 25 years?” “If you don’t trust me to change a diaper, you shouldn’t put me in the nursery.”

If you want to experience support instead of push back for upping the children’s safety standards in your church, listen in for seven specific steps to help turn the struggle into a celebration instead.

Taking wise steps to move forward with purpose will go a long way in protecting the kids in your care, keeping your volunteers serving more joy and confidence, and growing a reputation of excellence in your community.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people, just like you, in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Follow Us:
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry
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Small Church Summits: https://smallchurchsummits.com/
The Small Church Acade

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029: Keeping Your Children’s Ministry Safe With Smaller Budgets & Smaller Teams

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 12:00:00 -0600

Instead of your small church being a rather scary place for visiting families, learn how to make your small church one of the safest places in your community.

While the familiarity of a small church leads to comfort and trust for its members, that’s not a shared trust for visiting families.

In this episode we’ll talk about challenges facing many small churches in regards to best practices for safety in children’s ministry, and what to do about them.

The obstacles of smaller budgets and less volunteers doesn’t excuse us from high standards in protecting our kids, our volunteers, and the reputation of our churches. Although small church ministry is different, it should never be less.

Join me for the discussion on what matters (and why) in regards to safety & policy in children’s ministry. Plus we’ll throw in a few creative solutions for funding background checks and having an extra set of hands in situations where 2 adults in a room might be challenging.

In episode 30, we’ll follow up with how to make policy changes a celebration instead of a drudgery as these shifts create some amazing changes & forward motion in your church culture.

Key areas in today’s episode:

Screening & Training Volunteers
Adequate & Safe Supervision
Registration, Consent, & Check-in/Check-Out
Bathroom Trips & Diapering
Limited Access to Children’s Areas

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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028: Why I Left My Church & Why I Went Back

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 17:00:00 -0600

The church is God’s design for His people, and it also can be a messed up place.

It’s no secret that many seek out large churches for the chance to be anonymous, which is the choice to be surrounded by community and yet removed from it. In small churches though, there’s no hiding.

I believe this is God’s plan - to be seen and to be in community. But what happens when that community is full of faulty humans? When it’s not a safe place? When people are hurt? In fact, why in the world would the Almighty God choose to be represented by a community of messed up people?

Let’s talk about how this imperfectly plays out. What do we do when the church fails us or when we fail the church? I’ve had plenty of reasons to leave the church, and I’m sure you do too.

If you’re tuning in to hear our typical awesome small church strategies and creative ideas, you have my blessing to skip this episode and choose another! This episode is less about the doing and more about the imperfect humans being utilized in the process.

Tune into this episode if …

You’re curious what happened when a very active pastor’s wife stopped going to church
You don’t understand how people who once loved the church leave and never come back
You’re carrying around some church hurt of your own and you don’t know what to do with
You want to know how to better support others who are struggling

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this.

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027: How to Bounce Back From Burnout (Tangible Tips For You & Your Volunteers)

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 03:00:00 -0600

If you or your volunteers are showing signs of burnout, you’re not alone.

You also don’t have to stay there!

Most small churches function with a small group of committed people who don’t want to disappoint God, their pastor, or the people who fill the pews. Sometimes that commitment leads to exhaustion and, little by little, the joy of serving slowly begins seeping away.

Whether you’re the pastor, ministry leader, or prefer to stay in the background, no one is immune to burnout. If you’re human, you’re at risk.

This podcast is for you if …

Your team seems to be fading in commitment and passion
You wish you had the motivation you remember when you first signed to serve
You want some tangible tips to refresh your personal vision or your team

Check out The Small Church Pastors' Wives Conference >> https://smallchurchsummits.com/pw2022/

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"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people, just like you, in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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The Small Church Academy:

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026: Why We Don’t Have A Conference For Pastors’ Husbands (& A 1000 Other Things)

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 13:00:00 -0600

There are a million great things your small church could be doing. How do you choose?

Listen in to this episode to:

Hear the answer to why we don’t have a Pastors’ Husbands Conference in 2022
Learn 5 questions to consider in choosing where to focus your resources
Discover some freedom in NOT doing it all

Check out The Small Church Pastors' Wives Conference >> https://smallchurchsummits.com/pw2022/

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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025: No More Boring Handbooks! Create a Ministry Handbook That Increases Momentum, Builds Trust, & Recruits Volunteers Too!

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 13:00:00 -0600

God is a God of structure … and yet, He is anything but boring!

Whether you’ve taken time to develop a ministry handbook that’s collecting dust in the corner or you’ve avoided putting one together in lieu of shiny objects and curly-tailed squirrels, I have news for you! Ministry goals, organization, and policies don’t have to be boring. And it’s totally worth the time to communicate better and breathe some life into crucial things that matter.

Listen in to learn about a ministry handbook that can be a life-changer in your small church, from creating great relationships to growing the volunteer team you’ve been praying for.

Done right, a Ministry Handbook has the potential to …

Build trust
Increase momentum
Turns spectators & naysayers into raving fans
Become the best volunteer recruitment tool on the planet

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

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024: Where We’ve Been & Where We’re Going (The Story of The Creative Little Church)

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Welcome to a very special time at The Creative Little Church! We’re going to be celebrating our 2nd Anniversary since my very first online workshop, and it has been quite a ride.

I’m often asked where this vision came from and what we’re planning for the future. Listen in for a casual peek into the last few years of The Creative Little Church.

In this episode,

Learn how this whole thing got started & why
Get a behind-the-scenes view of where we’ve been as well as where we’re going
Hear answers to a few frequently asked questions
Plus … you’re invited to celebrate with us at our week-long Anniversary Party

The Anniversary Party happens next week (June 19-25, 2022) on Facebook with special interviews, prizes, discounts, and a limited-time release of conference replays at a special anniversary discount.

5-Day Challenge: Do Small Church Better >> https://smallchurchministry.com/
My Soul Cries Out Devotional >> https://www.amazon.com/dp/1671208528/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_8QMFFTBG6B6Z16GMAB5X
The Little Book of Youth Ministry >> https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085LKBNHW/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_6CKY4S139H2C8DGNHS3S

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week!

023: Seriously Unforgettable Volunteer Appreciation

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 12:00:00 -0600

Did you know it’s much easier to keep a volunteer than to get a new one?

In fact, if we all just kept the volunteers we had gotten through the years, we wouldn’t have a shortage! So, how do we keep them?

In this episode, we’ll talk about …

The difference between recognition & appreciation (& why it matters)
The five main reasons why volunteers quit and where appreciation makes a difference
Why you don’t need a budget to do a great job at volunteer appreciation
The #1 most seriously unforgettable volunteer appreciation idea that never gets old

Team Care Cards PDF >> https://the-creative-little-church.ck.page/fdc7086cf0
Care Cards Blog Post >> https://smallchurchministry.com/thank-you-vbs-volunteers-appreciation/

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people, just like you, in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Follow Us:
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Small Church Summits: https://smallchurchsummits.com/
The Small Church Academy:

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022: How to Share What You’re Learning to Influence Change

Tue, 31 May 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Are you super excited about what you’re learning but not sure how to take it back to your small church?

Or maybe you’ve tried to share what you’re learning and it hasn’t been received with enthusiasm. If that’s you, you’re not alone.

In this episode, I share the 5 best ways to share with others what you’re learning in a way that catches like a spark in dry kindling instead of feeling like you’ve been doused with a bucket of water.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people, just like you, in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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Small Church Summits: https://smallchurchsummits.com/
The Small Church Academy: https://thesmallchurchacademy.com/

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021: Does Your Logo Need An Update? 7 Steps For Small Churches

Tue, 24 May 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Whether you’re hoping to update, overhaul, or totally redesign your church logo, this episode is for you.

Or maybe you’re like … “Logo? What logo?” …. don’t worry, this episode is for you too!

I’m starting at the beginning with why branding and logos do matter, how the process of branding can help identify and strengthen your uniqueness as a small church, plus how to avoid the most common mistakes small churches make.

Get ready to hear …

Why branding is important and even goes beyond what everyone sees on the outside
How to avoid the mistakes most small churches make when it comes to branding
Ideas to find graphic designers in your budget and who to hire for your logo design
7 steps any small church can follow to imagine and create a logo that’s right for them

Fiverr: https://www.fiverr.com/

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people, just like you, in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Follow Us:
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry
Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry
Small Church Summits: https://smallchurchsummits.com/
The Small Church Academy: https://thesma

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020: Yes, You Can Fire A Volunteer (But You Might Want To Do This Instead)

Tue, 17 May 2022 03:00:00 -0600

I’ve heard people say you can’t fire a volunteer, but it’s not true.

You can totally fire a volunteer.

You can fire them nicely or not nicely. You can fire them directly or cause them so much discomfort that they quit (which, by the way, is an indirect way to fire someone).

But all these scenarios have the potential to hurt feelings and damage relationships.

If you’re looking for a better way to remove a volunteer from a position in your small church and turn a stressful situation into a beautiful opportunity, listen in.

Today we’ll be talking about …

The top reasons volunteers fail and how to help them succeed instead
How church culture may have contributed to the unhappy situation you’re both in
Why going slower than you think will be better for your ministry
How to turn a volunteer “firing” into a beautiful restart for your ministry

Episode 009: Do You Need Written Job Descriptions for Volunteers in Small Churches?: https://smallchurchministry.com/podcast/episode009
Episode 013 Set Up Volunteers to Succeed in Your Small Church | Volunteer Series Part 4: https://smallchurchministry.com/podcast/episode013

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019: Incredible Tips For The Best Ministry Fair (& Why You Should Do One)

Tue, 10 May 2022 03:00:00 -0600

If you’re looking for a creative way to get more volunteers serving in your church, a ministry fair is a great event to add to your calendar.

Even in a small church, a ministry fair can be a great community builder, increase awareness of areas of service in your church, and pique the interest of people who haven’t ventured to a sign-up sheet in years.

Done right, it’s a win all around!

However, many ministry fairs lack the positive vibe you need to make an impact. Listen in for tips to make a ministry fair work in your small church with lots of impact.

In this episode, we’ll talk about …

One of the main reasons why some people serve and some don’t
Why lots of ministry fairs are boring and unsuccessful
Creative Ideas to make your ministry fair the best ever
Why interaction is the key plus some tips to get people talking
Fun elements to make your ministry fair memorable

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018: Personality Inventories & Spiritual Gifts Assessments (& Where We Get It Wrong)

Tue, 03 May 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Should you do personality inventories with leaders & volunteers? What about spiritual gifts assessments?

With all the options and trends these days, people are googling everything from Myers-Briggs to Colors to Enneagram to Strengthsfinder.

If you’re wondering how to best use inventories and assessments to get volunteers in the right places and build healthy teams, listen in.

In this episode, I’ll be talking about common mistakes churches make when using inventories and assessments - and how to use them better.

In this episode, we’ll …

Explore benefits as well as limitations of using inventories & assessments in churches
Learn where many churches have gotten this all wrong
Hear why I think everyone should quit asking “What number are you?”
The best way to help volunteers find their place in ministry

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017: 3 Quick Wins Plus 2 Long-Term Strategies To Get More Volunteers In Children’s Ministry

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0600

If you’re looking for more volunteers for your children’s ministry, you aren’t alone.

Children’s ministry takes many hands, even if you have only a handful of kiddos. An additional challenge facing staffing in small churches is the inconsistent number of children and the mixed-age factor.

One week could require a fully-staffed nursery and an extra volunteer in Sunday school, while in another week you find yourself fully staffed, but no kids show up.

It seems impossible to predict who you’ll need and when and difficult to recruit a staff when the needs vary not only by the season but by the week with little predictability.

Join me in this episode to learn …

A few unexpected quick wins to add a few more volunteers to your roster
Some long-term strategies to work toward building a committed team for the future
Why taking better care of your current volunteers needs to move up on your priority list
One common (but often overlooked) reason your recruiting methods might not be working

And if you just read that description, and you’re thinking, “Team? I wish! It’s just me!” … don’t worry, I get it. There’s plenty of gold in this episode for you too!

Again, you’re not alone. Tons of small churches are just like yours, with one or two people holding down the fort. Hang with me to find a better way.

The Runner and The Sailboat: https://smallchurchministry.com/women-in-ministry/
The Small Church Academy: https://thesmallchurchacademy.com/
Get Your FREE Ticket To The Small Church Kidmin + Youth Ministry Conference: https://smallchurchsummits.com/kidmin2022
Conference Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchsummits

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016: 5 Fresh Ways to Structure Children’s Ministry If You’re Short Volunteers Or Just Need A Break

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0600

Whether Sunday School is feeling stale, you’re short volunteers, or your kids are bouncing off the walls, it might be time for a refresh.

It doesn’t take a big budget or a big staff to add a new twist to your children’s ministry. Any one of these 5 ideas is perfect for a small church, works great with mixed ages, and is just as engaging for 2 kids as it is for 20.

Along with a bit of a reset, these ideas may also lead you to …

New volunteers, you weren’t expecting
Kids more excited to come to class
The momentum you’ve been praying for

The Neighborhood: A 6-Week Rotation For Children's Sunday School: https://smallchurchministry.com/sunday-school-ideas-summer-service/
Get Your FREE Ticket To The Small Church Kidmin + Youth Ministry Conference: https://smallchurchsummits.com/kidmin2022
Conference Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchsummits

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015: Beyond Behaviors: Where Successful Mixed-Age Sunday School Begins

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 18:00:00 -0600

Managing a mixed-age Sunday school class with 3-year-olds and 6th graders in the same room is no easy feat.

In this episode, we’re rolling up our sleeves to tackle a desperate (and common) plea for help.
I’m on a crusade to stop the destructive blaming of kids, teachers, parents, and pastors.

Join me to learn how to get beyond managing behavior and create a safe place for everyone. You don’t need more kids or more volunteers to experience joy in mixed-age Sunday school.

Wouldn’t it be great to …

Anticipate goodness instead of dreading disruptions?
Help children experience the fruits of the spirit instead of frustration?
Enjoy parents, teachers, and pastors working together on the same page?
Know your classroom is a place where children feel safe and loved?

If that’s what you’re dreaming of, me too! Let’s do it.

The Small Church Academy >> https://thesmallchurchacademy.com/

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014: Create a Volunteer Culture of Loyalty & Longevity | Volunteer Series Part 5

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 03:00:00 -0600

If you truly want to break the cycle of a volunteer vacuum in your small church - or maybe you have a revolving door of volunteers who come but don’t stay - creating a culture of loyalty & longevity is the ticket. There are many rewards of creating this type of volunteer culture including greater ministry impact, developing deeper relationships, and growing in significant leadership skills. But at the core, it’s just about being more like Jesus and following His example on earth.

Don’t miss this episode if you want to …

Learn how to keep volunteers for the long-haul
Develop ministry partners you can count on instead of inconsistent helpers
Discover the 4 reasons people remain on some ministry teams and quit others
Apply Jesus’ life example and imitate His ways in small church ministry

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013: Set Up Volunteers to Succeed in Your Small Church | Volunteer Series Part 4

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0600

This episode is all about setting up volunteers for success in small church ministry. Sadly, that’s the opposite of what most people experience. Instead of setting up volunteers for success, we too often set up volunteers for frustration, failure, or feeling trapped - sometimes we even set them on a path to be used and used up. Join me in learning how to create a culture where people actually want to serve, where people feel loved, honored, and supported. This episode is all about simple, doable steps that lead to refreshing small church ministry and a volunteer culture where people aren’t just stepping in to fill a role, but joining in a greater mission to make an impact.

Listen in to hear …

The key to developing passionate ministry partners instead of reluctant volunteers
Why agreeing on a job description isn’t just necessary but motivating & empowering too
A 4-step involvement process to yield more consistent results and confidence
How to help your volunteers go from feeling used to being supported & cared for

Check Out The Small Church Academy >> https://thesmallchurchacademy.com/

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012: Avoid The Top 7 Mistakes Small Churches Make When Recruiting Volunteers | Volunteers Series Part 3

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0600

When it comes to recruiting volunteers in small churches, a little intentionality goes a long way.

Instead of rushing to find people to fill the holes, we’re talking about how to get the right volunteers in the right places so they end up serving with passion and joy, knowing they’re making a difference.

The steps we’re talking about in this series on volunteers are about changing the culture in small churches - to go from lack and desperation to seeing needs met and having incredible impact.

In this episode, we’re talking about …

How to avoid the top mistakes churches make when recruiting volunteers
Why people love samples at the grocery store and what that has to do with ministry
6 simple steps to the brilliant invitation we all should have been practicing from the start
What NO really means and what to do with it

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Small Church Summits: https://smallchurchsummits.com/
The Small Church Academy: https://thesmallchurchacademy.com/

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011: Increase Your Pool of Church Volunteers & Identify the Right Ones Before You Ask | Volunteer Series Part 2

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0600

The first step in getting volunteers starts well before “the ask.”

If you’re like most small churches and struggling with getting volunteers or you’re hoping to do better, you can’t keep doing the same things you’ve always done. Join me in this episode to learn about the often-neglected step of Identifying Volunteers.

Here’s what can happen if you adopt this process of Identifying Volunteers before you ask …

Your list of potential volunteers becomes greater than you ever realized
The 80/20 pattern in your church gets a kick in a new direction
Your leadership becomes more thoughtful, prayerful, and effective
Your ministry grows healthier as you get more of the right people in the right positions

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010: Strategies to Find, Keep, and Develop More Volunteers in Your Small Church | Volunteer Series Part 1

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 03:00:00 -0700

In this introduction to our Volunteer Series, we’re starting at the foundation and turning the tables on how some of our beliefs about volunteers - and quite a few commonly held teachings - are misguided and lead us further from the truth of what God has for us.

Could it be possible that God has already provided all the volunteers you need to do exactly what He has for your small church today?

Join me where it all begins - getting our beliefs aligned with Him so we can move forward in all He has called us to do. All the small church strategies in the world won’t help if our hearts are off balance and we’re not aligned with Him.

Today I’ll be talking about …

A few of the common lies we’ve been taught about volunteers
How wrong beliefs hold us back from experiencing the light & easy yoke of Jesus
Jesus’ process for finding volunteers when He was on the planet
Why volunteers don’t exist to DO ministry, but they actually ARE our ministry

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The Small Church Academy: https://thesmallchurch

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009: Do You Need Written Job Descriptions for Volunteers in Small Churches?

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 16:00:00 -0700

Just because you’re part of a small church doesn’t mean ministry is less important in your small space.

Since we’re representing the God of the Universe, we should be concerned about doing ministry well!

If you don’t have written job descriptions for volunteers (or if the mere mention of that just made you cringe a little!) join me for this episode. We’re gonna talk about why lots of small churches avoid job descriptions and why that causes all sorts of pain.

And then we’re gonna talk about how to use job descriptions really well - if you need them, how to write them, and who to give them to.

Learn how to …

Write job descriptions that make ministry easier & more fulfilling
Focus on results instead of tasks to leave room for creativity, personality, and growth
Write job descriptions that are welcoming & friendly instead of scary & demanding
Approach your pastor with a job description for you (if you don’t have one already)
Utilize job descriptions for developing volunteers & growing your team

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Small Church Summ

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008: How Rest, Stillness, & Health Relate to Work in Small Church Ministry

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 03:00:00 -0700

If you’re one of many who say you’re doing all the things because no one else will, if you’re flirting with burnout but committed to working unto the Lord, or you just plain want to find a little more peace & presence in your life, tune in to this episode.

The truth is God doesn’t want martyrs and He doesn’t want His people frustrated and weary.

In this episode, we’ll dive into ...

How the majority of mantras about hard work are misguided and only half true
How to appreciate God-given limitations as gifts, not begrudge them as liabilities
Why pushing through isn’t good for you or the people you serve
That most of us actually don’t need to work any harder; what we really need is to rest better
9 things I do to incorporate rest & stillness in the midst of work

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007: The Beauty of Intergenerational Ministry in Small Churches (& How Your Church Can Experience it too!)

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 03:00:00 -0700

God has a lot more in mind for our churches than different generations feeling misunderstood, unappreciated, and ignored.

Instead of living in the beauty of intergenerational ministry that God created us for, many churches experience the feeling of “us” and “them” - like the younger people want change; the older want to hang on to old ways.

Check out this episode if you’re ready to close the gap between generations and build bridges instead!

We’re talking about …

How curiosity and compassion might be the two things you need most
How to help everyone embrace the gifts and value of differing generations
How to foster intergenerational relationships without adding more programs
3 steps to close the generational gaps in your church
Plus some creative ideas you can implement with no cost and little planning

Download 15 Fun Ideas to Foster Intergenerational Relationships PDF >> https://the-creative-little-church.ck.page/a289e5d6be

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Small Ch

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006: Choosing a Curriculum for Children’s Sunday School in Small Churches (& Why It’s Not Quite as Important as You Think)

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 15:00:00 -0700

Choosing a curriculum for Children’s Sunday School can seem like a huge feat for small churches.

We spend a lot of time previewing options and then a lot of money trying some, adapting others, and wishing for something else instead. Serving mixed-age classes with few volunteers and inconsistent attendance is a challenge for sure, but sometimes we make it harder than it needs to be.

Join me as we talk about content in children’s Sunday School and consider some bigger questions we should be asking too.

In today’s episode, we’ll shed some light on issues lots of small churches face in children’s ministry including …

What’s more important than choosing a curriculum
What scope-in-sequence means and if it really matters
Why your curriculum choice matters less than you think
Some creative options to consider for your Sunday School content

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005: The Best Way to Find Out Why People Aren’t Coming (& Why Your Assumptions are Probably Wrong)

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0700

When leaders in small churches are frustrated by lack of attendance at events or programs, phrases I hear a lot include: People at my church aren’t committed. They say they want programs and then they don’t show up. They’re too busy. They’re uncommitted. They just don’t care.

When I ask ministry leaders how they know those things, they respond that if people were committed and cared, they would show up.

I’d like to suggest that assumption isn’t always true - in fact, it’s usually wrong.

We need to stop assuming and start asking better questions to get to the root of the issues.

Join me in this episode to talk about …

The 2 things every human craves & what we all have in common
The singular best way to find out what’s really going on
Why people don’t always tell you the truth even if you ask (& how to change that)
How to prepare your heart for the answers
What feedback to listen to and how to make changes

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004: How to Host Meetings People Actually Want to Come To

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 03:00:00 -0700

Are you tired of planning meetings when no one shows up? Wondering how to build a team if you can’t get anyone to a training? Maybe you just want to make your meetings have more of an impact.

We’ve all been there.

Want to cast a vision, build a team, or even just get everyone on the same page? Planning meetings can be frustrating when they don’t have the result you were hoping for. If you struggle with meetings for any reason, you’re not alone.

Tune into this episode to uncover …

The real reason people don’t come to meetings (& it’s not because they’re busy)
Why time really is more important than money
Four elements every great meeting includes
How to turn meetings into parties that get things done

For more on The Small Church Academy >> https://thesmallchurchacademy.com/

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"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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Small Church Summits: https://smallchurchsummits.com/
The Small Church Academy: https://thesmallchurc

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003: Debunking The 80/20 Rule (It’s Not a Rule; It’s A Symptom)

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 03:00:00 -0700

The biggest struggle most small churches have is volunteers - not enough volunteers, burning out volunteers, finding new volunteers, and keeping volunteers.

There’s a lot of commiserating about the 80/20 rule, where 80% of the work is done by 20% of the people. But is that even true? Does it have to be?

In this episode, we’ll be talking about ...

Where the 80/20 Rule came from and why it’s not a rule at all
Why the 80/20 rule isn’t Biblical
That it’s immensely important, but not in the way you think it is
How changing your belief about the rule is gonna change your ministry

Join our FREE Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Follow Us:
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 Summits: https://smallchurchsummits.com/
The Small Church Academy: https://thesmallchurchacademy.com/

Get the Ministry Bundles here!

Support the show

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If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this.

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002: Why It's Not About the Numbers (& It Never Was)

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -0700

We humans like numbers.

We measure physical growth in meters or feet, bank accounts in dollars, and academic success in percentages. But as much as we like to measure success in numbers, it’s not how God designed His Kingdom.

God Is not the one who said “If you build it, they will come.” In fact, He’s the one who said few will follow.

In this episode, we’ll explore…

Why measuring church success by numbers isn’t Biblical
That some of the most gifted & called Jesus-followers are in small places
How we miss what God is doing when we focus on who’s not coming
That Jesus modeled life-changing ministry without growing a church in numbers

Start the FREE 5-Day Challenge today >> https://smallchurchministry.com/

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"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Follow Us:
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 Summits: https://smallchurchsummits.com/
The Small Church Academy: https://thesmallchurchacademy.com/

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001: 4 Reasons Small Churches are Awesome (& Why I Started This Podcast)

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 15:00:00 -0700

Small church ministry isn’t less, but it is different. With smaller numbers and smaller budgets, many churches struggle to try to keep up with the big church next door. What if we quit trying to compete with big places, and, instead, started embracing the gifts God’s uniquely given to smaller communities?

Tune in to this episode to learn about 4 reasons small churches are awesome:

How God loves small and always has
Where the best relationships are built
That we’re meant to do life with people of different generations
Why small churches are so great for training leaders

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" << If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about this episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay up to date on the new episodes I release every week. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Follow Us:
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 Summits: https://smallchurchsummits.com/
The Small Church Academy: https://thesmallchurchacademy.com/

Support the show

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches who need to hear this.

🎙 Thanks for tuning in to Small Church Ministry Podcast! See you next week!