The “stained-glass cliff” of leading a dying church

How are other groups repurposing their assets with faithful generosity?

There’s a new way to discover stories of other congregations across the country. Check out the Story Shelf Map from Lake Institute on Faith & Giving. Want to know what’s happening in your city or state? Click a spot on the map or search by location or keyword.  

How to avoid falling off the “stained-glass cliff” when leading a dying church

By Diane Kenaston

When young, new or female clergy take over a struggling congregation, they often face the exhausting task of closing the church. A pastor and consultant offers guidance and support from ministers who have been through the experience.

Building hope over time

By Mycal X. Brickhouse

Christian witness to hope can take patience and faithfulness, particularly during in-between times, writes a director of programs and grants for Leadership Education at Duke Divinity.

What if preaching were an ongoing conversation?

By Elizabeth Felicetti and David J. Schlafer

Rather than a series of “one-offs,” sermons can spark a conversation that fosters communal spiritual continuity in the congregation. Here are seven strategies to do that.

As more pastors age and retire, churches appear to be facing a succession crisis, a study says

By Shari Finnell

According to recent research, the average age of pastors is rising and the number of younger — and aspiring — clergy appears to be in decline.

‘Have a Beautiful, Terrible Day!’

By Kate Bowler

In her upcoming book, theologian and author Kate Bowler offers meditations and reflections for a range of days – good, bad and the many in the middle.

Top 15 Faith & Leadership stories from 2023

To celebrate our 15th anniversary, here are 15 of our best features, interviews and essays from 2023.