Over 70 clergy serving in the Eastern PA Conference—including several from Greater New Jersey—found much-needed soul-support during a free, daylong retreat for spiritual renewal Sept. 20, at the Daylesford Abbey in Paoli, Chester County. The monastery was an ideal setting—both …
EPA groups begin planning leadership succession for 2024-2028
EPA’s Committee on Leadership convened leaders of conference boards and committees September 28, via Zoom, to discuss leadership needs for the 2024-2028 quadrennium, including timely succession of chairpersons. “All groups will have changes in membership, and some will have changes …
By Water & the Spirit: Theology & Practice of Baptism
EPA’s Board of Ordained Ministry will again offer its study of the sacrament of Baptism this fall. By Water & the Spirit: Theology & Practice of Baptism will be presented via Zoom on two Saturdays, October 28 and November 11, …
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 …
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 …
The Culture of the Call, Part III: The Influence of the Church
“The gifts He gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastorsand teachers…” (Ephesians 4:11) What makes the local church a producer of excellent candidates for pastoral ministry? In the sacred Scriptures, God does most of the …
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 …
Creating a culture of calling to pastoral ministry is crucial now
“I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’” (Isaiah 6:8a) Although I don’t condone its tone or tactics, HBO Max’s dramatic series, Succession, is wildly popular. It’s all about the …