Congregational Transformation

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Vital and Passionate Congregations

By Christopher Jacob Kurien*

 

It is a privilege and honor for me to serve the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference as the Director of Connectional Ministries. We, as United Methodists, are connected in many different ways- especially in our mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. This is the shared purpose of every church and of every member.

Over the summer, I visited both India and South Africa where I worshipped with different congregations.  While in South Africa, I saw the vitality of our Church expressed in passionate worship, generous giving, and loving hospitality. 

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Dr. Kurien: Director of Connectional Ministries

The Rev. Dr. Christopher Jacob Kurien was appointed by Bishop Peggy Johnson to be Director of Connectional Ministries/Executive Director of Congregational Transformation beginning July 1, 2011.  

About The Rev. Dr. Christopher Jacob Kurien

Christopher was born to missionary parents in India. Growing up, he lived in various places and settings which has allowed him to appreciate and understand different cultures and people, and to become fluent in five languages. He completed his Bachelors, Masters, and Theological studies in Andhra, Kerala, Annamalai and Serampore Universities respectively. He was ordained in 1985 and served the Church in India in various settings, including planting a church, before coming to the U.S. to pursue his doctoral studies in Pastoral Care and Counseling at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago.

Monday, April 11, 2011

The Parish Paper: Ideas and Insights for Active Congregations

NEW: NOW AVAILABLE:

March 2011 - Does a Congregation's Location Influence its Effectiveness

April 2011 - Incoming Pastors - - Building Smoother Transition Bridges

May 2011 - When Does Success Lead to Failure?

June 2011 - What is the Pastor's Role in Church Finance

Each monthly issue of The Parish Paper provides ideas, insights, research-findings, and practical methods that strengthen the effectiveness of congregations in accomplishing God’s purposes through their various ministries.  Unlike most newsletters, The Parish Paper is strictly a reprint-rights publication for congregations, judicatories, seminaries, and educational institutions. Eastern Pennsylvania Conference congregations receive copyright permission to photocopy or reprint and distribute each monthly issue to governing boards, committees, and constituents.  This is made available to our congregations through the Office of Congregational Transformation, and made possible by our Connectional Ministry Fund.

News

Read the latest news of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference.

Photos

View photo galleries of Conference events and news stories.

Videos

See the latest videos by the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference.

Bishop's Blog

Bishop's Blog

Read thoughts on faith and life from Bishop Peggy Johnson.