The Rev. Maryanne Ditter, Minister of Spiritual Formation Tabor UMC, Woxall, PA Just a few months ago, I was listening to songs on my computer to try and figure out what song my son and I would dance to at …
‘Making all things new’
By the Rev. James Anderman, Lead Pastor, Covenant UMC, Springfield PA So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! 2 Corinthians 5:17 As we begin a new year, …
The promise, practice and power of prayer
“Rise Up and Pray!” Do you remember that imperative call of our recent Annual Conference, to lift our heads, hands and hearts in prayer to our almighty, all-loving God? What about Draw the Circle: The 40-Day Prayer Challenge, the Rev. Mark Batterson’s…
How are we known?
I recently received by e-mail a promotional article that began like this: “When you walk through the front door, you see huge words that say ‘You Belong.’ As you enter the facility, more signage communicates that you’ve walked into a …
Four Stations of the Holy Spirit begin with prayer
There is little if anything new under the sun, a saying that’s true about the church and discipleship. We constantly go back to the Church of Acts…
Why I Dance
Every year I’ve attended Annual Conference, there have been a small but faithful group of people who hold vigil right before the ordination service. Those passing are sometimes confused about why these people are standing outside singing. For as many people who …
Re-envisioning Congregational Development
What is happening in growing new churches and redeveloping existing churches? A lot! I remember when I went to Annual Conference…
How to grow vital, disciple-making churches
Primary Focus The mission of The United Methodist Church is to “make disciples for Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.” This is based on the Great Commission of Jesus, found in Matthew 28:18-20. Allowing the transforming grace of …
Network! Network! Network!
Remember the old axiom about the three most important considerations for buying real estate? It’s “Location! Location! Location!” As Coordinator of Congregational Development…
Be not afraid!
I invite you to picture this scenario: An economy with a huge disparity between rich and poor. Groups of people who fear persecution because of their ethnic identity. A government that is protective about its borders. A leader that is seen…