Insights from in and around the association
UBA Voices
Entrenar y Enver Juntos: Un Movimiento del Evangelio siguiendo el modelo de Antioquia
Si una iglesia pequeña puede enviar por medio de la colaboración, estoy seguro de que su iglesia también puede.
Centering on the Margins
Church leaders would do well to ask “What types of people live in our community but don’t come to our church?” Centering in these margins can help reach otherwise invisible people.
Vision Reset
Maybe the new year doesn't require a complete overhaul of your church's vision. But what about a vision reset?
Just a Small Crack?
Most Houstonians know something about cracking foundations. But what do we do when there’s a small crack in our teams?
What's Your Narrative?
What is the overarching narrative that runs through your church or ministry right now? At the risk of being too simplistic, it is probably one of two extremes. One is a story of woe and discouragement. The other is curiosity and anticipation. The themes and stories that you emphasize in your communication will set the tone for your church or ministry.
Is the Singing Over?
As Italy began to loosen its restrictions, an NPR reporter reminded listeners of the early days of the lockdown when Italians lifted their spirits by singing from their balconies. But the reporter noted that patience was wearing thin, and concluded, “Now the singing is over.” I recognize the emotions because I feel them myself. When I hear about the “endurance phase,” I want to grit my teeth, not burst out in song.
Is There Such a Thing as Good Conflict?
Consider whether you agree with the following two statements: “Churches need to innovate in order to reach their God-given potential.” “Conflict in a church is a sign that we’re doing something wrong.” Many church and ministry leaders would affirm both of these statements. Even if they don’t verbally agree, their behavior indicates they do. They will talk about starting new programs in order to be more effective. And they will be surprised and disappointed when they encounter resistance or conflict.
Translating Your Vision
One evening when our adult kids were home for Christmas, we entertained ourselves with Google translate by translating phrases back and forth to see how they might change. Communicating clearly and effectively is both important and challenging for church and ministry leaders. How often have you conveyed a key message and then been shocked at how it was misunderstood by others? Probably far more often than you would like.