In today’s digitally driven world, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a powerful tool that can significantly impact your church’s communication and ministry efforts. As church leaders and pastors, you are uniquely positioned to explore the ethical use of AI, understanding …
Living into Baptism through Diakonia
Diakonia is a strange Greek word. It is often translated as service. But diakonia means much more than simply doing things for others. It is an essential part of Christian identity and discipleship. It is about who we are and …
Church leaders to learn about EPA’s new grant application process
Looking for ways to fund ministry in your church? The Eastern PA Conference is making it easier to apply for church grants with its new its Congregational Development and Community Outreach unified grant application process for 2024, which launched Sept. …
Unlock your congregation’s full potential with Introduction to Pathways
Unlock your congregation’s full potential with an Introduction to Pathways for Congregational Development. Attend one of two orientations August 26 or 28 via Zoom. Are you eager to strengthen your congregation’s mission and make a positive impact in your community …
Clergy invited to ‘reset’ at spiritual retreat, Sept. 20
Enjoy a day of spiritual retreat and renewal on Wednesday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Daylesford Abbey, a monastery located in Paoli, Chester County. This time of respite is designed for pastors who welcome fresh training, …
Finding best practices of restoring mental, spiritual health
“David took the lyre and played it with his hand. Saul would be relieved and feel better, and the evil spirit would depart from him.” (I Samuel 16:23b) “‘You know you’re in trouble when your colleague recommends their antidepressants,’ begins …
Creating a Culture of Calling to Ministry, Part 2
“As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” —John 20:21b After his resurrection Jesus’ demonstrated his own practice of leadership succession. He lingered with his disciples to further instruct and strengthen their personal faith. And he assured them …
‘Here I Am, Send Me’: Call to Ministry Worship Service
Use this suggested order of worship to celebrate the call to ministry, prepared by two of our EPA pastors and members of the Board of Ordained Ministry. It’s titled Here I Am, Send Me: Call to Ministry Worship Service. Plan to use …
Spiritual retreats offer weary clergy respite, renewal
“Pastors need a break. We need some sense of support and nurture.” That’s how the Rev. Peter Jamieson, pastor of Richmond UMC in Bangor, described what brought 25 EPA clergy members to scenic Pocono Plateau Camp & Retreat Center April …
Workshop will help churches prepare for pastoral transitions
The EPA Transition Workshop for New Pastoral Appointments, to help churches receive new pastors, will be offered twice, May 4, at 7:00 p.m., and May 6, at 9:00 a.m., both via Zoom. Each participating church should form a transition team to attend the …