Healthy Church Growth Show

ABOUT THIS EPISODE

Elders Connell and Rhonda Hollins will discuss Christian marriage and relationship counselling which is rarely addressed in adequate ways in many assemblies. They are based in Chicago and run Me to We Talk podcast.

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TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY

1.40 Is Christian marriage being overlooked in the Church? Marriage based on functioning disfunction – based on TV, Reality shows etc? Address the marriage ceremony and not the transition? Excited about the wedding day, not about the marriage.

3.52 What made them start a relationship ministry. Pre-marital classes. More questions than answers. Marriage – God’s first ministry. Classes were more religious than understanding modern issues. Some Christian ministers were not equipped.

7.08 Real marriage counselling case-study.

10.58 Who did they learn from about marriage?

14.30 Is it ok to be unequally yoked with a life partner?

19.16 the tests in a relationship

22.16 Is it OK to disagree as a couple?

24.07 Like milk, there needs to be an expiration date on arguments

24.26 Do they only work on Christian marriage counselling or non-Christians too?

26.47 The trend for single people attending relationship classes.

28.08 Is there a line they would draw or subjects which would not be broached in relationship classes.

30.10 Non-Christian relationship counselees understanding Christian principles on sex before marriage. No condemnation.

34.18 Leaders – what can they learn about relationships for their own assemblies?

39.00 Relationship consultancy to other leaders in the Church available from Elders Connell and Rhonda

LISTEN TO - ME TO WE TALK Podcast

https://metowetalk.com

Minister Madge Obaseki

madgeobaseki.com

FULL TRANSCRIPT

As a natural progression to developing relationships, today I’m covering staff & volunteer development, specifically their progression in the role they are carrying out. As usual this series are practical. I suggest you get your pen and note pad to take some notes! Also, if you have people who report to you, share the link to this episode with them so they can listen.

As far as team & staff development goes, you might be familiar with the terms one-one, feedback, evaluation, or performance review. If you’re not familiar with those terms, a performance review is where you talk with an individual on a regular basis about their performance.

Staff and volunteer development has always been an important matter to address. But, in these uncertain times, it’s even more important to ensure we keep our staff and volunteers engaged and willing to contribute to our overall goals. As a biblical reference I suggest studying Ephesians 4: 12.

There are many advantages to providing staff and volunteer development. If a review is done well, your staff or volunteers can see how they started in their role in your ministry, church or business and what progress they’ve made over time. An evaluation or performance review provides a road map showing what worked, and what improvements are needed. It’s a great opportunity to honour people’s efforts and provide guidance which are also motivating factors. This is especially important where people are volunteering because as a performance review can act as a non-financial motivator. Another advantage in carrying out a performance review, is you’ll find out about people’s hidden gifts and talents. Their gifts and talents may differ from the role they are carrying out in your church. You might find through a review that they are better serving in another department or role such as leadership! An added value for your volunteers is the skills they learn in your church or ministry might be transferrable and can be added to their resume.

There are 6 points to get the best from your staff and volunteer performance review. I’ll only cover 3 in this episode.

Today I will discuss:

1. The PURPOSE OF A PERFORMANCE REVIEW?

2. WHO’S A PERFORMANCE REVIEW FOR?

3. WHO’S RESPONSIBLE FOR CARRYING OUT A PERFORMANCE REVIEW?

· The performance review is for ALL staff and volunteers. That is from ordained and un-ordained leaders, any staff level and all volunteers.

· Basically, everyone should have a performance review. I recommend every six months as it provides an opportunity to address any issues identified and make adjustments before the next review.

· The person who manages the staff or volunteer or you oversee a department, would ensure you programme a review on a regular basis.

Next week I will discuss:

4. HOW OFTEN YOU SHOULD A PERFORMANCE REVIEW SHOULD TAKE PLACE

5. HOW TO AGREE WHAT IMPROVEMENTS OR CHANGES ARE NEEDED

6. HOW TO RECORD WHAT WAS DISCUSSED IN THE PERFORMANCE REVIEW

LINKS

madgeobaseki.com

Ep. 54 Developing Relationships - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Engaging-Staff-and-Volunteers-DEVELOPING-RELATIONSHIPS-ep--54-e126drb

What’s this episode all about?

Continuing the series on engagement of Church staff and volunteers this week, Minister Madge Obaseki digs deeper She discussed leaders intentionally developing relationships with staff and volunteers to get to know them for successful engagement which can impact the achievement of mission, objectives and strategies in local churches.

FULL TRANSCRIPT

Welcome to ep. 54 of the HCGSP. In Episode 53 I started a new series on staff & volunteer engagement. I talked about Pastoral Care. If you missed that episode why not go back & listen, the link is in the show notes. Engagement as far as staff & volunteers is much broader than Pastoral Care.

For example, part of my corporate business career was in HR and in particular organisational development. Whether you are running a business non-profit or a local church, successful engagement means your people feel passionate about what they do and are committed to the organization's vision, mission objectives & strategy.

But how do you harness that enthusiasm and passion? I think it’s simple really, get to know them! Might sound obvious, right? But, you'd be that some really don't really know their staff or volunteers, their likes, dislikes, what motivates them, what their key skills are etc. Without that knowledge, it's difficult to know how you can harness their strengths to support your organisations goals and as importantly develop their skills & talents.

Here are some ideas for staff and volunteer engagement:
1. Carry out regular one-one i.e., evaluations where you discuss their progress, future ambitions, what their strengths and areas for development are. These sessions could take place every 6 months. I’ll be going into more detail about how to do a one-one evaluation successfully in episode 55.
2. Hold a staff retreat in person if possible
3. Have a social event for your staff and volunteers where you can all relax and unwind. It is amazing how much you get to know people in a social setting especially where food is involved!

If you want to keep in touch and get access to resource to help you grow a healthy church, visit madgeobaseki.com/contact

See you next week by God’s grace!

LINKS

Episode 52 – https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Engaging-staff-and-volunteers-PASTORAL-CARE-ep--52-e11ooo7

Website  madgeobaseki.com/contact

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?

Minister Madge Obaseki shares insights, knowledge and tips for better engagement with church staff and volunteers. Engagement is important to build trust and motivate staff and volunteers to work towards our mission, objectives and hence a healthier growing church. This is the first of a series addressing the importance of engagement. Different aspects of engagement will be addressed. The episodes will be deliberately shorter than normal so that listeners can use the audio to conduct team training and reflection on existing systems

1.10 What Nona Jones Head of Head of Faith Based Partnerships for Facebook says about engagement

1.35 What this new series in the podcast with the focus on i.e. engagement of staff & volunteers

1.44 The reason for the subject of engagement is that people are biggest asset.

2.15 This episode covers Pastoral Care for Staff & Volunteers from an engagement point of view.

2.22 Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Bishop of Dover & the 1st black female Bishop to be installed in the CoE appeared in Episode 46 called Who ministers to the minister focusing on Pastoral Care

2.49 Why Pastoral care is essential for the well-being & engagement of our staff & volunteers. but overlooked in some quarters.

3.09 Why pastoral care is even more important during the pandemic.

3.59 Why a written system of Pastoral care is important

5.19 Just one leader responsible for pastoral care and the disadvantages and why it is reminiscent of Moses and Jethro.

7.35 no formal system in place and the challenges this brings up.

8.32 Reviewing pastoral care system with your congregation and the tools that can be used. Why it needs to be anonymous.

9.48 More tips on church staff and volunteer engagement.

LINKS

madgeobaseki.com

Episode 46 - Bishop Rose Hudson Wilkin - Who ministers to the minister? https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Who-Ministers-to-the-Minister---Bishop-Rose-Hudson-Wilkin--Ep--46-ev4ph4

WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE

This is a short episode to introduce the updated format of the show and the subjects that will be covered to help grow a healthy church.

FULL TRANSCRIPT

Welcome to Episode Number 50! Another landmark! We celebrated our 40th Anniversary in March, quickly followed by my 1st year hosting this podcast and now we're at number 50! I've even got some bonus episodes out so I've actually done more than 50!

I appreciate all of you who've followed this podcast from the start and anyone who has just discovered it for young me.

This week I'm going to outline the next stage for the upcoming format of this podcast.

in ep. 51 you'll hear my conversation with Chris Staron and his journey from Pharisee to Fisher of Men. In modern terms a Pharisee is someone who is hypercritical and into the rules, the regulations first & foremost rather than relationships & humanity. Recent research suggest that the attitude of a Pharisee could influence people's decisions to stay in the Church. Listen to ep.51 if you're concerned about church retention problems.

In future episodes I'll be covering some practical subjects around engagement of staff & volunteers.

Interspersed with that I'll be talking to Anne Livingstone about her journey from New Age to Child of God. That episode will be useful if you've found people visiting your online services with little or no faith who've possibly dabbled with new age practices. Fascinating insights from Anne!

You'll also hear my conversation with Andy Frost of Share Jesus International who'll take us through some simple steps to kick start evangelism in our local churches.

I'll also be speaking to Elder Conell & Rhonda Hollis who are relationship experts who work with Churches to integrate this important ministry.

LINKS

madgeobaseki.com/contact

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?

Minister Madge Obaseki speaks to Andy Peck from the Leadership Show at Premier Christian Radio, about her experience in designing training to address conflict in churches.

TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY

3.01 Minister Madge journey to ministry

5.10 Common areas of conflict in the church – lack of or unclear communication mission, vision, objectives and values

7.26 Can there be conflict in a healthy church?

7.52 Principles for dealing with conflict in the church and biblical verses that addresses conflict.

9.41 An analysis of 1st Corinthians 1-3 which addresses divisions in the church and some of the causes of conflict.

10.41 The part doctrine and traditions can play in conflict and what the guiding principles should be from a biblical perspective. Using the pulpit to speak to a situation rather than dealing with the individuals involved.

14.43 Is there an issue with gender and conflict in the church?

16.57 Should Christians get involved in politics? Was Jesus a politician?

19.15 What sort of subjects does Minister Madge Obaseki address in a typical conflict management training session for the church?

How to contact Minister Madge Obaseki to deliver training for your church.

Case study example of a church management committee who were in conflict and the power of strategic administration.

LINKS

Enquiries about training and facilitation with Minister Madge Obaseki – madgeobaseki.com/contact

The Leadership Show with Andy Peck -  https://www.premierchristianradio.com/Shows/Sunday/The-Leadership-Show

WHAT THIS EPISODE IS ALL ABOUT?

This is part two of the outline of a real case study of a church Minister Madge Obaseki host of the Healthy Church Growth Show podcast worked with. They wanted to experience growth but was meeting some barriers. You’ll hear what some of those barriers were through recordings from a live event with staff of volunteers of the church assembly.

TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY

1.11 – Context of the episode – the case study of a church Minister Madge has worked with

5.32 – Live recording of breakout group (edited clip) discussing main topics in the survey sent to all attendees. Nominating a group leader. Ideas shared from group members.

Digital church improvement suggestions

Small Group (hub group) leadership and practical ideas for engagement. Small groups and the opportunity for growth.

9.24 Viewing and following up online church visitors. Lack of dedicated team for following up church visitors.

9.43 Clip of feedback shared from each shared group.

12.05 Analysis for the church staff and volunteer event by Minister Madge.

LINKS

Episode 47 The work I do for churches (part 1) - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-work-i-do-for-churches-minister-madge-obaseki-ep-47-part-1/id1453862091?i=1000518523211

Contact Minister Madge Obaseki - madgeobaseki.com/contact

WHAT IS THE EPISODE ALL ABOUT?

Minister Madge Obaseki talks about the work she does for churches by sharing some case studies of churches she has been commissioned by. You will hear extract of the training event and ideas you can use in your own local church. This is also the 1st year anniversary episode.

TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY

1.0  1st year of Healthy Church Growth Show podcast

1.10 Testimony & encouragement

2.40 The purpose of the podcast, the pandemic and opportunities for the church

4.12 Part 1 what does a church consultant does.

4.37 The case study of working with a church who commissioned Minister Madge earlier in 2021.

5.06  The background of the local church I have worked with

5.20 Why the church leader approached Minister Madge & her research interest in retention problems

5.37 Leadership willing to get to the root of the problem and being authentic and consultation. The key information: Vision, Mission, Objectives and Values.

6.56  The proposal to work with a church, what does it involve?

7.26  Supplying anonymous surveys beforehand to gauge attendees and delegate needs perceptions and experiences.

7.42 How staff and volunteer retreats can be delivered in times of social distancing.

8.07  What support staff are included with each commission and the cost differential and what alternatives can churches utilise.

8.37 Communications with the team and senior leaders throughout the commission to ensure clear communications channels

9.19  How added value was provided by the consultant – recorded announcement to delegates and attendees

10.16  Using online platforms such as Zoom – the pros and cons

11.33  What you will hear in Part 2 of The work I do for churches in episode 48

ABOUT MINISTER MADGE OBASEKI

Minister Madge Obaseki is Director of Grow The Church Now where she serves as a church consultant. She is host of the Healthy Church Growth Show and she is an author.

She is known as the Healthy Church Growth advocate. That is because she is committed to facilitating our collective mission found in Matthew 28:19-20. Her background in corporate organisational development, training delivery and Human Resource management has prepared her to serve in full-time ministry which she has been doing for over 28 years.

Her specialism is retention challenges in the church. She provides services to churches and ministry including strategic reviews, training delivery, facilitation for staff and volunteer events and staff and volunteer retreats and mentoring for leaders. The objective is to assist church assemblies and ministries to ultimately achieve healthy sustainable growth. She works with churches small and medium no matter the denomination in the USA and UK and has travelled to speak at events for church leadership on her specialism church retention challenges.

She holds a degree in Ministerial Theology, a post-graduate in Management and she is CIPD and ILM accredited.

LINKS

Minister Madge Obaseki website - madgeobaseki.com/contact

Example of a church previously worked with - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-26-leading-through-a-crisis-church-new-norm/id1453862091?i=1000495202381

Episode 40 – Healthy Church Growth Show 40thepisode special - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-40-celebrating-40-episodes-healthy-church-growth/id1453862091?i=1000510916884

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?

We talk to Bishop Rose about pastoral care from a clergy perspective in these challenging times. We discuss why clergy need to be intentional of looking after their well-being so they can look after others more effectively.

ABOUT BISHOP ROSE HUDSON-WILKIN

Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin is made history in 2019 as the 1st black female Bishop to be ordained in the Church of England. She is also the 1st black woman to be installed as the Bishop of Dover. She was formerly Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons and continues to serve Her Majesty The Queen of England as a vicar/chaplain.

SUMMARY OF TRANSCRIPT

2.56 Announcement of Healthy Church Growth Show Podcast 1st anniversary

5.08 Bishop Rose Leadership Challenges across denominations during the Covid pandemic

9.36 Ensuring, leaders, clergy, pastors receive pastoral care to be able to cope with difficult times The importance of building relationships, communication team meetings putting in place mechanisms staying in touch and being in tune knowing where your people are and what they're experiencing.

12.58 - Minister Madge - how to juggle varied needs. Finding time for self and balancing family, life etc.

Bishop Rose Diary management. Prayerful workers.

16.06 - 17.21 Who ministers to Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin? The importance of not assuming that it will just happen and being intentional. The definition of a Spiritual Director

20.24 Bishop Rose last word -  I do hope that those listening will make the time not only to care for others, but to care for themselves. I'm always reminded of that passage of scripture, Love the lord your God with all your heart soul, strength and mind. Love your neighbour as you love yourself.

Healthy Church Growth Show Podcast on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-church-growth-show-podcast/id1453862091

Minister Madge Obaseki Website  - madgeobaseki.com/videos

ABOUT THIS EPISODE

The purpose of this conversation with author and TV personality Reina Rose on the Healthy Church Growth Show was to discuss how as Christian leaders we can better prepare people’s souls. The soul is sometimes ignored/overlooked in teaching and discipleship. We discuss the reasons why this might be. Reina also shares the tragedy which led to a wake-up call to a deeper relationship with God and nourishing her soul.

ABOUT REINA ROSE

International best-selling author and Soul Nutrition ROKU TV show host, Reina Rose shares her unique experience and expertise on the importance of nourishing the soul. Digging deep into the question of what truly satisfies our inner life, Reina distils ancient wisdom into practical tools useful for today's modern audiences. As a former fitness professional and lifelong student of human behaviour, Reina draws a powerful parallel between harmful food cravings and the common mindsets and behaviour that harm our souls. From stress management to meditation to prayer to mindful self-awareness, Reina's topics direct audiences on a journey toward personal and spiritual fulfilment.

TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY

Reina Rose background

5.18  Definition of what the Soul is – True self vs False Self.

7.05  Prosperity Gospel, depravity gospel and living on and with purpose.

8.21  The role discipleship plays in preparing the soul.

9.19  Why Reina used a Tibetan parable in a Christian book – Sin Tastes Good.

12.38 Old wine skins patched up.

14.28 Redefining certain terms e.g. Sin. The burden of guilt and sin.

15.18 Retention and what is behind it.

15.49 Reina and ego and the tragedy she experienced which acted as a wake-up call.

23.00 Focusing on purpose and calling without seeing the material benefits immediately. Not being swayed by people’s opinions to distraction.

28.17 The importance of leaders being vulnerable. The example of a Pastor struggling with depression. How leaders can start to be relatable. 

31.53 The demi-god in the pulpit

35.34  Sin Tastes good. Living with a mask. Nutritious intimacy. Apostle Paul his wisdom and the controversy.

38.53 Where to get Sin Tastes Good: Nourishing your soul in an empty calorie world.

LINKS

Sin Tastes Good – Amazon USA - https://www.amazon.com/Sin-Tastes-Good-Nourishing-Calorie-ebook/dp/B08NY1NZG4#:~:text=Sin%20Tastes%20Good%20is%20the,a%20better%20connection%20with%20God.&text=book%20for%20you!-,The%20book%20Sin%20Tastes%20Good%20will%20help%20you%20to%20have,a%20better%20connection%20with%20God.

Sin Tastes Good – Amazon UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sin-Tastes-Good-Nourishing-Calorie-ebook/dp/B08NY1NZG4

Reina Rose Website – https://reina-rose.com/

Reina Rose Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/reina_rose_tv/

Pastor Terry Nightingale – Dealing with Disappointment and Mistakes - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Ep-39---Christians-dealing-with-disappointment-and-mistakes-eql2pe

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?

How does a leader in the church recover from crisis? How to you plan for crisis? Those are some of the questions Pastor Kent James who is based in Jacksonville, Florida will be discussing with Minister Madge Obaseki.

Pastor Kent James biography

Pastor Kent James is a leader, creator and influencer. His daily work involves developing talent and training corporate leaders to reach their full potential. A former youth leader and teacher, Kent is lead pastor at Restoration Church of Jacksonville located in Florida. He has written four books and he contributes inspiring articles to Program Success magazine. He has been married to his wife Donnette for 24 years and together they have a son in the United States Army and a seventeen-year-old son who is active in the church.

1.23 How to manage 2 vocations i.e. being a Church leader and Employee. AUDIO GRAM

5.27 How his faith journey impacted his current standing as a pastor

9.03 Setting up a unique ministry and partnering with other organisations

9.39 Being a Church without walls…on a Sunday

10.12 Dealing with well-meaning advice, opposition and fear along the path of calling and purpose

13.55 The challenge that turned into crisis and where that left the leadership team and particularly his wife

21.21 Having a contingency plan to navigate through crisis

22.57 Losing faith

23.58 Why allowing people to lead in their own authentic way is the best way and why it might be advantageous to the lead pastor.

May 10 week Leadership Training called LEAD 21

31.23 Advice to other leaders in the church when dealing with crisis. Consulting with key stake holders to map out crisis scenario. The vantage point of a leader and those working in the trenches.

35.32 Dealing with brokenness. Getting back to wholeness

LINKS

Restoration Church Jacksonville - https://www.myrcj.org/about-rcj

Upgraded by grace – your abundant life the way God intended –

– UK link https://www.amazon.co.uk/Upgraded-Grace-Your-Abundant-Intended/dp/1501091948 USA link for the book - https://www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Grace-Your-Abundant-Intended/dp/1501091948

YouTube video of Ep. 42 Healthy Church Growth Show Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CE102sgvTtk

What is this episode all about?

Joe talks about his experience as a Christian Leader, how he manages organisational change, how he grew the organisation, and how he operates in the secular realm as a Christian Leader. He also talks about how UK Churches can engage with the KICK organisation.

About Joe Lowther

Joe Lowther was previously a Principal of an outstanding School and is now CEO of KICK. KICK’s mission is to transform young people’s lives, with God’s love, through sport and support. KICK’s vision is to see a generation of young people reach their God given potential; where communities have been socially impacted; and where spiritual change has transformed a nation. KICK do this through values-driven physical education, street dance, mentoring, chaplaincy in schools and church-based KICK Academies to impact young people. KICK has grown rapidly to engage over 12,000 young people a week across 77 schools and 24 church-based KICK Academies. KICK is committed to seeing young people experience a hope for the future and joy in the present. Joe has recently completed an MSc in Change Management for Charities.

TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY

LINKS

KICK Transforming Lives through sport - https://kick.org.uk/

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT

This episode takes a departure from the usual format. There are contributions from 8 people who’ve

Either appeared in previous episodes are great supporters of the podcast. This episode will explain the journey thus far in producing this weekly show and the lessons learnt…..

As one of the contributors, Jacqueline Malcolm stated, the number 40 is a significant number in the bible. For example Jesus fasted and prayed for 40 days and nights. Rain   fell for "forty days and forty nights" during the Flood, (Genesis 7:4). Forty days was also the period from the resurrection to the   ascension of Jesus (Acts 1:3). It is period of testing, trial, and   probation. Great breakthroughs have happened after a forty-day period.

THE CONTRIBUTORS FOR THIS EPISODE

Ed Stolle a POWERFUL Apologist based in Maryland,  USA who had some timely and pertinent, matters to discuss about helping young people defend their faith in Episode 38 - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Ep-38---How-to-help-young-people-defend-their-faith-eqd9lr

Dr Shana Wise of Wise Choice Ministries based in Jacksonville, Florida - She spoke about re-opening her assembly Wise Choice Ministries in Episode 21 - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-21---Establishing-a-New-Church-the-2nd-time-around-ejg8cj

A young man who listened to Episode 36 https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-36---Youth-and-Faith-in-a-post-Christian-place-epht2m with Youth Pastor Kendall Dooley in Arizona about post Christian   attitudes and how it affects faith amongst young people.

Pastor Paul Ilo from The Higher Place Church UK who   appeared in 2 episodes i.e. 5 & 26 on leading in crisis through the pandemic. 

Episode 5 - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-5---How-church-leaders-can-lead-in-a-crisis-ee67rahttps://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/ Episode-26---Leading-through-a-crisis---church-new-norm-el88te

John Porterfield from Southern California a   streaming expert from Episode 31 - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-31---Online-Streaming-Basics-for-Churches-emramq

Jacqueline Malcolm - from the Creative Platform Academy - https://www.creativeplatformacademy.com/about.html

Message read from Nik Read from Big Picture Charity Films appeared in Episode 20 - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-20---Highlighting-your-cause-by-improving-your-church-video-ej6vbd

Apostle Obaseki madgeobaseki/videos

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT

We discuss the so called ‘Connected Generation’ with Nicole Lewis, Associate Student Director of Agape UK. What does it really means to disciple young people in difficult times and circumstances.

BIOG

Nicole Lewis serves as the Associate Student Director for Agape UK, A UK registered charity that is part of Campus Crusade for Christ International. Nicole helps to lead the Student work across the UK and locally in London serves as the City Coordinator for Agape. During Nicole's twenty-four years of doing Student Work in three different countries (USA, Italy, UK) she has served in various roles: local student worker, team leader, missions mobilizer and also National Student Director. {Nicole has been a speaker at several student conferences and retreats in the US} and says that in twenty-four years of student work, she still feels passionate about students knowing Jesus and following him as lifelong multiplying disciples.

TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY

2.07 What Nicole does and the organisation Agape UK.

3.33 Are there differences in students/young people across different continents as far as faith is concerned. Countries include Italy, USA and UK.

8.26 How Agape UK is helping young people to develop their faith.

12.31 Barna.com Research on the Connected Generation and what it means to the Church at large. Why are young people more anxious than in previous generations? Should mental health be included in Christian discipleship programmes?

17.The film: The boy who harnessed the wind and possible keys to easier access to resources meaning their might be a lack of appreciation for what we already have.

20.25 Definition of Discipleship. 2nd Timothy: 2. Dallas Willard book – The divine conspiracy.

22.30 Advice and guidance for Church leaders and leaders in the church on discipleship. Being intentional when considering discipling young people.

27.13 Avoiding the propensity to disciple someone to self rather than Jesus.

LINKS

Agape UK - https://www.agape.org.uk

Connected Generation & Research on Gen Z - https://www.barna.com

Dallas Willard – The Divine Conspiracy - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/173454.The_Divine_Conspiracy

Episode 36 - with Kendall Dooley - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-36-youth-and-faith-in-a-post-christian-place/id1453862091?i=1000506768084

Episode 35 - with Reverend Chris Lee -  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-35-rev-chris-lee-60-second-sermon-and-young-people/id1453862091?i=1000506404124

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?

Minister Madge Obaseki will share practical ideas all leaders in the Church can adapt to review their experiences in 2020 and re-engage with our collective mission in 2021 in this short bonus episode.

This episode provides 2 areas for focus:

1. Your existing congregation and how to check you are still on mission with them

2. People of no or little faith and how to engage their spiritual curiosity

3. How to work with your core team to plan for 2021

ABOUT MINISTER MADGE OBASEKI

As an ordained minister, and author, she's served  in the Church and ministries for over 27 years. She has done most jobs in the Church and has a passion to see the Body of Christ grow spiritually and physically. Led by her calling, she has established Grow The Church Now. As a result Madge is Commissioned by Church Leaders to review their processes and identify the reasons they might not retain members. She is also invited to speak at conferences about retention challenges.

She has over 30 years industry experience HR/Organisational Development and and ILM  advanced trainer. Additionally she has also run several successful businesses. Madge holds a degree in Theology and a Post Graduate diploma in Management from Middlesex University. She is also a CIPD qualified Human Resources professional. Madge lives in London with her pastor husband and family.

LINKS

madgeobaseki.com/videos

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?

We are back on January 25th 2021 with an exciting line up of guests from a wide range of ministry backgrounds!

Episode 35 will feature, Reverend Chris Lee who is famed for his 60 second sermons which seem to engage people of no or little faith especially young people! He has a bigger following than the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Church of England combined on social media! Find out why on January 25th 2021!

The next 3 episodes will also be dedicated to aspects of engagement and discipleship of young people. Ed Stolle an apologist based in the USA as well as Kendall Dooley a Youth Pastor and Nicole Lewis Associate Director of Agape UK will also be guests.

We then move to aspects of leadership and the first conversation for this tract will be with Pastor Kent James based in Florida who will talk about handling leadership in a crisis. Pastor Terry Nightingale over in Brisbane Australia, will speak on disappointment and discouragement in leadership and how to overcome it - and boy do we need that in this season! 

More guests are lined up to speak on leadership and other practical topics so make sure you subscribe so you don't miss an episode!

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LINKS TO RESOURCES REFERRED TO IN THIS EPISODE

Story Bearer The Book Phil Knox - https://storybearer.com

Share Jesus International - http://sharejesusinternational.com

Ekklesia Conference - https://www.sharejesusinternational.com/ekklesia

iTunes Review Link - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/healthy-church-growth-show-podcast/id1453862091

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?

The bible tells us in Philippians 2:4 that we as a church need to look after our needs, but also the need of others.

With that in mind, one of the pressing societal issues, is tackling loneliness, particularly among older people. How can the church address this issue especially as it has been widely recognised as a public health risk.  Jeremy Sharpe is the National Director of Linking Lives UK. You’ll hear about Linking Lives work with churches and Christian organisations to address loneliness in their communities amoung socially isolated older people.

TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY

Jeremy’s background and how he came to be of the National Director of National Christian charity Linking Lives UK?

What is Linking Lives UK mission (reason and purpose)

Jeremy’s reaction to a statement made by a high-profile church leader "Loneliness is the absence of people. It is the absence of purpose. Find your purpose & you will find the right people".

Why loneliness amongst older people in the West appears not to receive the attention it deserves generally.

The statistics on loneliness

How do Linking Lives UK prepare churches and Christian organisations to work in their communities i.e. there training and support.

Dealing with older people who speak varied community languages

The Twos Company project and how local churches can b involved in to serve their own communities

ABOUT JEREMY SHARPE AND LINKING LIVES UK

Jeremy Sharpe is the National Director of national Christian charity Linking Lives UK which works with churches and Christian organisations to establish local befriending projects aimed at socially isolated older people. These projects match volunteers with one person for a regular home visit and, where possible, older people are encouraged to engage in local events & activities in the community. Since the start of Covid-19, he has been spearheading the creation of a new telephone befriending model called Twos Company. These projects match volunteers with one person for a regular call which can make all the difference to a lonely older person.

Visit the link below to find out how your church assembly can become involved in tackling loneliness.

LINKS

https://linkinglives.uk

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT

With the global pandemic, we are all having to face a new norm, so it is more important than ever to involve staff, volunteers and ministry teams in idea sharing and service. Minister Madge Obaseki will cover key points in this important topic.

FULL TRANSCRIPT

It’s no understatement to say that this has been one of the most difficult years in living memory for every level of society with the ongoing challenges caused by the pandemic and that includes the Church. Local churches have had to adapt from being building centric to online services, digital communication and distance relationships. While some have done well, others are still trying to work out the new normal. Yes, I really think things have changed.

One thing is evident. As local churches we are more dependent than ever on our congregation’s involvement in the new ways of doing things. So, today I am going to speak briefly about how you can encourage your congregation to be more active.

As a consultant, I often get asked this question by leaders in the Church often. It seems to be a pain point for many. Apart from my own experience serving as a volunteer, later as a member of staff and in recent years being commissioned by local churches, I’ve noticed that the most successful teams are the ones who are empowered to contribute ideas and serve.

Whilst not every idea can be included, we can honour each person's opinion by considering it and discussing. Even if their ideas must be rejected for practical or logistical reasons, if they are taken seriously, they will still be motivated and as a result more involved. I have found that the more involved people feel, the more responsibility they take on and therefore the more active they become. A sense of ownership by your congregation, members, laity or ministry team has got to be good news. You see Senior Leaders are widely thought of as the font of all knowledge, and as such are expected to present ideas and solutions. That is just too much pressure for one person.

So the question is does the culture in your local church conducive to people presenting ideas? If you have been reluctant to explore ideas from other's, sharing ownership might seem counter intuitive. But here is what Tannenbaum & Schmidt, the eminent contingency theorists said, 'To gain control is to give control'. Moses father-in-law pinpointed his son-in-law’s propensity for control when he said, ‘This thing you are doing is not good’. Moses was acting like the font of all knowledge, but it is clear from accounts of his own faith journey that he would never be able to keep up the pace and serve God with excellence. My own late father-in-law used to say that if someone had their hands full of luggage, what else could they hold? In essence these examples serve as a salutary reminder that as leaders we need focus on what God called us to do. By overseeing rather than doing, we can maintain control while motivating others to run with the vision. With the added pressures encountered during the pandemic, sharing and exploring ideas has never been so important.

Apart from the raised levels of motivation amongst your congregation once they are empowered, there is another advantage. Over time you will identify natural leaders. Leaders are crucial to the continued health and sustainability of the Church, so this subject must be addressed.

LINKS

madgeobaseki.com/videos

THE HEALTHY CHURCH GROWTH SHOW PODCAST WITH MINISTER MADGE OBASEKI. 

THIS PODCAST ADDRESSES A WIDE RANGE OF ISSUES WHICH AFFECT THE HEALTHY GROWTH OF THE CHURCH AT LARGE. EVERY SINGLE MONDAY YOU’LL HEAR  A RANGE OF GUESTS INCLUDING CHURCH, MINISTRY LEADERS AND EXPERTS IN THEIR FIELD, TO HELP LEADERS IN THE BODY OF CHRIST IDENTIFY PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS.

madgeobaseki.com/videos

What is this episode all about?

WHERE HAVE ALL THE MEN GONE IN THE CHURCH? 

• Is it simply down to demographics (1 man to every 2 women), OR are there more complex reasons? 
• There are an apparent 2million women are single in the church. 
• What long term challenges is that causing in the Church at large and what can the local church do about it?

Nathan Blackaby CEO of Christian Vision for Men (CVM) & Rob Santer, the London coordinator, present compelling arguments and ideas as they discuss CVM’s mission and strategies in Episode 27 of the Healthy Church Growth Show: Where have all the men gone in the Church?

TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY

1.45 CVM’s reason and purpose i.e. their mission

2.15 Why local churches need a partner like CVM to address the lack of men in their assemblies

2.45 Which category of men are missing from the Church?

3.30 The main reasons there is an imbalance between men and women’s attendance in the Church. CVM claim it’s not simply down to demographics i.e. to every 1 man there are 2 women.

5.15 Men and their sensitive side – could this also impact their attendance in the Church at large

8.00 The challenge of adapting language and environment for men when they return to their local church. The importance of making men’s worship experience relevant in their social context and experience.

12.30 The significance of the imbalance between a lack of men compared to women in the church and the wider issues this causes. There are 2million Christian women who lack Christian partners. Only16% of our grandchildren will have a Christian father and/or mother; referred to as spiritual fatherlessness. Significance of drop-outs at specific age ranges amongst men.

15.15 Apparent dropping out of online services. A missed opportunity to define what church was in the midst of the pandemic. The replication of a model that might not have worked. Reference: Episode 26. The importance of interaction to alleviate boredom.

17.45 Use of small Groups for enhanced connection. The importance of using technology creatively to leverage church engagement online.

What about the demographics in terms of generations i.e. Generation Y & Z and ethnic mix?

21.15 The activities organised which as specifically appeal to men – spiritual and social.

24.00 Engagement of Generation Y (Millennials) 22-35 years and engagement of Generation Z teens to 21 years old. Ethnic mix within CVM and cultural challenges.

27.30 The importance of leaders in the Church being Culturally aware

31.15 A woman’s view of what they expect from men. The problem of spiritual singleness i.e. partners/husbands don’t share their faith.

33.15 The importance of the leader empowering others to build strong men’s ministries

LINKS

Christian Vision for Men website - cvm.org.uk

Statistics quoted can be found this episode from the book - 7 reasons your church needs more men - https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=7+Reasons+your+church+needs+more+men&ref=nb_sb_noss_2

Episode 26 – Leading through a crisis – church new norm ideas on how to leverage technology effectively for the church - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-26---Leading-through-a-crisis---church-new-norm-el88te

What is this episode all about?

This episode will provide 5 ideas on how you and your assembly can adjust to the New Church Norm. 

2020 has been a challenge to every strata of society including the Church at large. 

The mission of the Church has not changed, however, our methods of engagement and discipling people must adapt. Once we recognise that fact, we can begin to address the  societal changes and keep focused on mission even through the pandemic.

Transcript Timeframe

2.00 How the mission has not changed, but the methods need to.

3.15 The 5 ideas you can discuss with your teams

3.30 Proverbs 4:23 - resistance to change may = holding God's mission back

5.30 Go where the people are - internet, smartphones, social media, text messages and the relevance in our society. The importance of delegation. Research shows between 30%to 50% of congregants have returned to in-person services. What the most successful local churches have done to alleviate this challenge. The hybrid church model.

7.30 Keep your mind like an umbrella i.e. open. 

9.30 We should not present ourselves as an exclusive club. How are we communicating our faith to those who've never been exposed to it.

12.30 What are the most popular search terms when people are looking to engage or explore their faith?

ABOUT MINISTER MADGE OBASEKI

LINKS

madgeobaseki.com/videos

What is this Episode all about?

Can a man really run a women’s ministry? Who has ever heard of such a thing? Yet there is a man called Eric Austin Sr. who has been running a thriving women’s ministry for a number of years. The ministry is called The Pearl in You outreach and addresses many of the social problems’ women face. Here you’ll learn about his why and journey in this most unusual of positions.

Timeline Transcript

1.00Eric’s background, strict upbringing faith journey and ministry call

6.25 How God made a way for Eric in an unexpected way

10.25 Eric’s Fractious relationships with men, his insight into domestic violence and what led him to start The Pearl in You Outreach, ministry for women.

15.20 The significant reason the ministry called The Peal in You. The social problems in the society which The Pearl in You outreach encounters

21.28 Helping ANYONE means just that no matter their race, creed, religion or not economic standing or sexuality. Learn how the ministry does not discriminate between people of different life choices & experiences. The difficulty of preaching at people.

24.34 The types of activities and programmes the Pearl in You outreach are involved in. For example:

· Finances

· Sex Education

· Health

· Youth Programme plans

· Prison Ministry

27.00 Street Revivals and what they are

31.00 International Women’s week and who the line-up of speakers are.

37.00 What is Eric’s role in the conference? The relevance of Samuel’s mother, Hannah, and the plight of the women who are being helped by The Pearl in You outreach.

41.00 Advice from Eric on being chosen for an unusual ministry. Mentoring and the importance of not rejecting someone you may not like at first. The imbalance of fatherlessness.

LINKS

The Pearl in You Outreach celebration of the INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S WEEK WILL BE HELD AT: https://www.facebook.com/thepearlinYOU

Eric Austin Sr. Biog

Eric Austin Senior is the founder of The Pearl in You Outreach.

Eric established The Pearl in You Outreach, when he observed a woman who had gone through years of domestic abuse.

The Pearl in You Outreach, is a ministry focused on encouraging women (whether they are Christian or not) to see themselves as more than their circumstances.

Eric, has experienced his own life challenges, but despite that he remains resolute in a achieving his purpose in life.

Eric loves to travel (when he can) and also enjoys fishing and camping. He lives in Louisville, Kentucky where he is based with his son and family.

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?

This is one pastor’s honest account of his assembly’s experiences during lockdown and the Covid 19 pandemic. Pastor Chase Brown of Kaleo Church, Phoenix Arizona, shares some of the strategies used, the challenges arising in their community and members and his personal struggle. He also shares how he works alongside a co-pastor with equal responsibility. A not to be missed episode!

Timestamp

2.30 What does Kaleo mean for the uninitiated?

3.15 How Kaleo Church was founded

4.30 Church getting out of the habit of listening and why it is important. Why the lockdown has been so hard for some people.

7.00 How Pastor Chase is coping with lockdown. The importance of acknowledging feelings in crisis.

9.00 The Table strategy at Kaleo Church – what is it?

12.00 How meetings are taking place in lockdown. Spiritual practice guides. The reason Kaleo does not use streaming services.

14.45 Missing opportunities to reach a wider audience? Why evangelism means building friendships with community. Christian language understood by only Christians and why it would be intimidating to those outside the community. The ‘Dry Farming analogy’

18.00 demographic of Kaleo, Millennials and why the assembly starts late because of them. What is a Millennial?

19.0 Kaleo Church and multi-culturalism. Why no efforts in this period are wasted.

20.0 How to work in partnership with a co-pastor. Vision for shared Church leadership. The reality of human interaction and the importance of communication. Splitting responsibilities between leadership.

24.10 Changes in church members and the challenges. Resistance to Zoom meetings. Meat & milk believers

29.45 The challenge of being a vocational pastor and the struggles in keeping focused. The importance of being authentic and empathise with congregants.

36.10 Final advice for church leaders from Pastor Chase Brown. How to avoid burnout.

LINKS

kaleophx.com

ABOUT THIS EPISODE

Reverend Terrell and I talk about:

• Is digital church Plan B until we go back?
• How do church leaders engage with their congregation outside the main event?
• What tools are used for digital church? Is online church all about streaming, engagement or both?

EPISODE TIMESTAMP - TRANSCRIPT

4.10 What is a digital pastor?

6.00 The world has shifted and the Church had to be on board with the shift. How churches have had to change and adapt to a new norm. Now is not our church, we have a world-wide stage.

8.15 The reaction of the congregation in a previously traditional church setting

10.30 Helping people and navigating the new norm – practical steps

13.00 Leaders and why they are reticent about online church & the mistake of comparison. Going where the people are.

16.00 The idea of people coming to the church building has changed radically. Opportunities for more options in the way the local church gathers. The Church and the World stage its beyond the local congregation.

18.30 The Netflix comparison. Watch the language used.

20.30 The importance of developing relationships. Nona Jones from Facebook and her views. The possibility of there being greater engagement on than off line.

22.15 Multi-Generational congregation & the surprising discoveries since lock-down

26.00 What technology is being used to operate the local church presently

ABOUT REVEREND TERRELL W. CARTER

He has served in various capacities in Non-Profit & Christian organisations including Youth Pastor & currently serves as Digital Pastor of Antioch Missionary. Baptist. Church.

Study of social media & marketing strategies, and being a student of culture and commitment to the call of God on Terrell’s life has birthed a deep desire to “close the gap” and aid churches in communicating effectively to this present age.

Terrell is committed to sharing the principles of the faith to all, encouraging a radical acceptance of self, and inspiring all to live a fully expressed life. 

One of his anchoring scriptures is Ephesians  3:20, “Now unto him, that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us".

Social media: terrellwcarter (Facebook, IG, & Twitter)