Healthy Church Growth Show
By Minister Madge Obaseki
She is the host of Healthy Church Growth Show podcast with new episodes every Monday. She shares practical insights for healthier, sustainable church growth, around her specialist knowledge with special guests too.
Visit madgeobaseki.com for more information
Healthy Church Growth ShowMay 01, 2020
Relationships & Marriage in the Church
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
Church Staff & Volunteer PERFORMANCE REVIEW Part 2 ep. 56
FULL TRANSCRIPT
Welcome to the healthy church growth show podcast ep. 56. This is the last in this present series of the podcast until the beginning of August. You will hear interviews I recorded earlier this year with Andy Frost, from Share Jesus international on resources he has developed for churches to approach evangelism easily.
So, over the past few weeks, I have been talking about engagement of your staff and volunteers, why this important and what aspects you should be focusing on.
Last week in ep. 55 I discussed:
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 recording is in the link for this week’s show notes.
To continue the subject of performance review today I’ll discuss the other subjects to consider.
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
HOW OFTEN YOU SHOULD A PERFORMANCE REVIEW SHOULD TAKE PLACE
In my time spent in human resource management, performance reviews were usually carried out on a 6-monthly basis. This period gives time for the member of staff or volunteer an opportunity to reflect and work on any issues which came up in the review. So, by the time the next review came round, the manager or team leader with the member of staff could discuss the impact of any changes over the last 6-months. I suggest 6 months is a good guide to aim for.
HOW TO AGREE WHAT IMPROVEMENTS OR CHANGES ARE NEEDED
Agreeing what improvements are needed in a performance review can sometimes be a bone of contention. Some of the reasons for this might be a new managers or team leader who may not be used to conducting a review. If you are in this position, I suggest you study the examples of Jesus reviewing his disciple’s actions, reactions, and responses to assignments. He often asked them questions. The best performance review sessions enable the member of staff or volunteer to address the issues raised, by asking them a question. For example, you could ask, “How do you feel you performed?” “What would you do differently?” When you ask open ended questions like that, you allow the staff or volunteer to address issues rather than you telling them what they’ve done wrong which Cn cause conflict.
HOW TO RECORD WHAT WAS DISCUSSED IN THE PERFORMANCE REVIEW
A template either printed or on a computer will have:
· the name of the member of staff or volunteer
· the department
· the date of the review
· date of the last review if there was one
· what actions were agreed from the last review (if this is relevant)
· improvements which have been made.
If you would like a template for a performance review, email admin@growthechurchnow.com and we’ll send you one.
LINKS
madgeobaseki.com
Engaging Church Staff & Volunteer PERFORMANCE REVIEWS ep. 55 - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Engaging-Church-Staff--Volunteer-PERFORMANCE-REVIEWS-ep--55-e12o26kEngaging Church Staff & Volunteer PERFORMANCE REVIEWS ep. 55
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
Engaging Staff and Volunteers DEVELOPING RELATIONSHIPS ep. 54
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
Engaging staff and volunteers PASTORAL CARE ep. 52
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
Pharisee to fisher of men - Chris Staron ep. 51
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?
This conversation is with Chris Staron about his faith journey as a self-described Pharisee to fisher of men. He talks to Minister Madge Obaseki about how as Christian leaders we might unwittingly have an attitude of a Pharisee, and why this can impact our congregations.
TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY
1.46 Chris Staron’s background as film producer, podcaster of the Truce Podcast, Thespian and Comedian (improv)
3.00 appealing to a non-Christian audience as a believer.
3.43 The Accidental Pharisee
4.50 Being relatable as a Christian believer.
5.17 Opportunities to evangelise in the public space.
6.00 Truce Podcast and why some of the subjects appear to be controversial.
8.06 What does the Pharisee approach look like?
9.36 Why Minister Madge Obaseki took her discipleship book off the shelf
10.45 The importance of communicating with people of different backgrounds and traditions and studying the bible for ourselves.
10.58 What took Chris Staron out of his own fundamentalist views. The importance of sharing Jesus to enlighten others.
12.50 What specific incident led Chris Staron from Pharisee to Fisher of Men. Sharing the gospel in a workplace situation.
16.33 Why some non-believers might be angry with Christians OR against the faith. The importance of simply listening to discern the reasons.
17.45 Examples of how biblical verses are miscommunicated or misunderstood which can lead to fundamentalism or wrong doctrine.
20.33 The importance of Church Leaders, pastors clergy, sharing all aspects of bible and the consequences for not doing so.
20.52 Is the pastor the font of all knowledge? Considering the empowerment of congregations i.e. discipleship.
23.21 Chris Staron quote – “It’s easy to think we control all the pieces, but the best way is to teach the pieces to take control”
24.19 Advice to leaders in the Church – on how to stop being a Pharisee.
25.14 The Truce Podcast and where to find it.
ABOUT CHRIS STARON
Chris Staron is the producer and host of the Truce Podcast, which dives deep into history to explore how as Christian believers we got here and how we can do better.
I'm also the writer/director of two feature-length films, "Bringing up Bobby" and "Between the Walls" (on Amazon Prime, Netflix, TBN, DVD). He is the author of the novel "Cradle Robber", and the young adult book "How to Survive a Money Making Summer". He is a content creator, and also worked a crew member on "The Bernie Mac Show", "Hell's Kitchen", and more.
LINKS
Truce Podcast - https://trucepodcast.com/
BOOK - Cradle Robber by Chris Staron - https://www.amazon.com/Cradle-Robber-Chris-Staron-ebook/dp/B01M59BBPD/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=cradle+robber+Chris+Staron&qid=1621848517&sr=8-1 Christian Films by Chris Staron Bringing Up Bobby - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EynY5e0eL3o Between the Walls - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8sInY_IMEnE BOOK by Larry Osborne - Accidental Pharisees: avoiding pride, exclusivity, and the other dangers of overzelous faith. AMAZON UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Accidental-Pharisees-Avoiding-Exclusivity-Overzealous/dp/0310494443/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= Contact Minister Madge Obaseki madgeobaseki.com/contactWhat's Next? Minister Madge Obaseki Ep. 50
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
Conflict in the church - Minister Madge Obaseki ep. 49
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
The work I do for churches - part 2 - Minister Madge Obaseki ep. 48
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
The work I do for churches Minister Madge Obaseki ep. 47 part 1
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
Who Ministers to the Minister? – Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin – Ep. 46
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
Sin Tastes Good - Reina Rose ep. 45
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
Ep. 44 - Church Planting Journey
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?
Paul Pavlou is a curate in the Church of England. He shares his journey towards church planting including setbacks and disappointments.
About Paul Pavlou
Paul is a dad and husband to wife Hayley. He created the Church Plant Chat Podcast in 2020 to learn from Church Planters & Leaders around the UK and to share it as a resource for others. He is currently a Curate in Milton Keynes (within the Church of England) and has a passion to see Church Planting multiply across the UK.
TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY
2.18 Paul’s teaching career and how it led to ministry.
4.25 What is a curate and what are they responsible for?
6.56 The Alpha course and Paul’s love of discipleship and investing in others.
9.01 Why Church plant chat podcast was started.
15.05 Who is affected by decisions Paul makes about ministry i.e. his family. The importance of a ministry couple agreeing everything together.
17.52 Disappointment and how Paul has handled them. The importance of discernment. Being able to hear that small still voice (22.05).
23.01 The next stage of Paul’s journey.
24.19 Mentoring and how it plays a pivotal role in the church.
28.39 Where to find Church Plant Chat podcast. Has leadership become and idol in the church?
30.38 Advice to potential church planters
LINKS
Instagram: @churchplantchat and @pcpavlou
Twitter: @pcpav
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/paul-pavlou-9055ba190
LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/pcpavlou
Church Plant Chat Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/church-plant-chat/id1502722723
Ep. 43 - The State of Online Church 2021
State of Online Church with Minister Madge Obaseki
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?
John Porterfield an expert in streaming, interviews Minister Madge Obaseki regarding her experiences of helping churches. The particular focus in this episode is changes regarding how local churches gather, worship, disciple and evangelise in these socially distanced times since the pandemic started.
TRANSCRIPT SIMMARY
3.28 Minister Madge Obaseki’s career/business and ministry experience
5.21 State of online church reflection from 2020 – 2021 from a church consultant’s point of view. The reactive use of online steaming tools such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams. Church leaders experience of streaming.
7.22 Where have all the online church visitors/guests gone?
8.44 Tools some churches are using for online streaming and why pastors/leaders in the church are making these choices. Why some leaders believe online streaming may not need to be considered after lock-down has ended.
9.50 John and his talk with Amazon. The conflict leaders in the church are having with technology.
11.02 The problem with not having a strategy for online/digital church. Under resourced church leaders. Senior leaders taking on most of the responsibility and the problems with doing that e.g. mental well-being and burnout
12.28 A commitment by leaders to identify gifts to support online/digital church
13.00 Opportunities for the global church through local churches to spread the good news
13.13 An example of a church using online/digital church to reach the unchurched, new to faith and communicate with its community. Planning is a key. Using traditional communication methods e.g. phone, snail mail, sermon on conference calls mixed with digital communications.
15.07 Holistic approach to digital church. The opportunity for the church now. Some research shared.
18.36 Is hybrid church here to stay? Why not everyone will visit the local church. Google research on faith and engagement.
21.35 Canon J. John analogy
LINKS
John Porterfield – Social 180 Website - https://social180group.io/about
JP Chalk Talks YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCFhgwI36THLEZZBiIF2FEg
Minister Madge Obaseki – madgeobaseki.com/videos
Ep. 42 - Crisis in leadership - Pastor Kent James
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
Ep 41 - Joe Lowther Christian Leader
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/
Ep 40 - Celebrating 40 Episodes Healthy Church Growth Show podcast
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
Ep 39 - Christians dealing with disappointment and mistakes
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?
A subject rarely discussed is how Christians whether leaders or lay people face disappointment and mistakes and move forward. Pastor Terry Nightingale shares authentic accounts of his own experience and provides sage advice.
ABOUT TERRY NIGHTINGALE
Terry is a pastor serving in Perth, Western Australia, having previously worked in education.
Terry has been involved in Christian ministry from teaching to evangelism, and from music ministry to pastoral care.
Terry started writing in 2003 when he had an idea for a Christian novel with an adventure involving time travel. Terry also writes a weekly blog at terrynightingale.com called ‘The best is yet to come’, ‘Looking Back to Move Forward’ is his first non-fiction book for Christian leaders – in fact for anyone who occasionally faces discouragement or setbacks.
TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY
0.0 – 2.58 – Special News for Episode 40
2.59 – Pastoral experience and journey of Terry Nightingale
3.59 Reason behind addressing mistakes and disappointments in his new book.
5.50 What the world says and what the reality is about looking back on previous mistakes and disappointments. What does God and the bible teach about disappointment?
6.53 Terry on being authentic as a Christian leader. The importance of honest role models.
8.54 Influencers and what authenticity means for different generations of people in the 21st century. How to encourage people to be authentic.
11.49 Example of a mistake Terry made which he reflected upon. The importance of admitting one’s mistakes.
17.04 The importance of listening to God for direction through prayer and the word of God.
19.48 – 20.19 The danger of Ministers getting caught up in the busyness of life.
20.49 - The pressures leaders like pastors face such as conflicting priorities and distraction. The importance of spiritual health and well-being for leaders in the church. The oxygen mask analogy.
23.37 Knowing when to give up, close or change.
26.40 Advice to leaders to make difficult decisions.
29.45 The book Looking back to move forward – who was it written for?
31.25 Advice from one pastor to another
LINKS
BOOK PUBLISHER – Looking Back to Move Forward - https://www.kharispublishing.com/
TO PURCHASE THE BOOK
AMAZON UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Looking-Back-Move-Forward-Fruitfulness-ebook/dp/B08PQ65CVM
AMAZON AUSTRAILIA - https://www.amazon.com.au/Looking-Back-Move-Forward-Fruitfulness/dp/194627772X/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=looking+back+to+move+forward&qid=1613740125&sr=8-1
LINK
Ep 38 - How to help young people defend their faith
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?
Helping young people defend their faith especially as most of the worlds we’re living a post Christian context. Ed Stolle shares his experience and ideas on how to answer some of the difficult questions young people can answer.
ABOUT ED STOLLE
Ed Stolle is a Certified Financial Crimes Investigator, Certified Fraud Examiner. Though and expert in his field, his passion is developing and implementing evidence-based apologetics (defending one’s faith). His teaching is geared towards young people, their carers and youth leaders. Ed teaches a range of topics in classes and offers his knowledge and expertise free of charge to churches, youth groups and Christian organisations. Ed is based in Maryland, USA where he lives with his family.
TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY
1.11 How Ed started as an apologist.
2.27 Answering a child’s question about the authenticity of a bible story using contemporary examples.
5.51 What does apologetics mean?
6.51 Are leaders in the Church equipped to defend their faith? Content of the bible vs doctrine.
9.34 Churches uncomfortable talking about certain topics. Leaders in the church answering hard or uncomfortable questions.
10.49 Anti-Christian bias in present day culture.
11.15 The challenge to Christian faith and it’s impact on engaging youth.
13.52 Challenge to an 8-year-old practicing his faith in school in Michigan USA and a teen who was stopped from praying in her break in Texas and University students loosing their faith. Religions, State and separation of the two.
17.35 The hidden agenda thesis. Atheist quote from the late Professor of Philosophy, Princeton University, Richard Rorty- see quote here - https://www.adflegal.org/blog/we-hate-you-now-give-us-your-kids-so-we-can-turn-them-against-you#close
18.45 What parents/carers/leaders in the church do to encourage young people in their faith. Preparing them for people attacking their faith. The importance of backing up claims with evidence.
22.48 Advice. Build relationships. Don’t avoid difficult questions. Teach the bible with evidence.
26.08 Barna research on the Connected Generation and rates of depression.
26.56 How to Get in touch with Ed Stolle.
Get in touch with Ed Stolle for a FREE workshop for youth or parents via email - edls@yahoo.com
Hank Hanegraaff The Bible Answer Book. Provides quick answers tricky questions- https://www.christianbook.com/bible-answer-book-volume-2-ebook/hank-hanegraaff/9781418577957/pd/13666EB (eBook). Also available on Amazon and other book retails around the world..
Barna Group’s world-wide research project The Connected Generation about youth and faith https://theconnectedgeneration.com
God’s not dead - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gods-Not-Dead-Willie-Robertson/dp/B00OSNV8I8
Robert Pershing Wadlow the 20th century giant https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Wadlow
James Bartley swallowed by a whale- https://www.ycaol.com/swallowed.htm
Ep 37 - What discipleship really means - Nicole Lewis, Agape UK
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
Episode 36 - Youth and Faith in a post-Christian place
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?
Kendall Dooley a Youth Student pastor in Arizona will explain how he works through other leaders to build the faith of students in a post Christian environment. This episode is including, many practical and you can replicate tips and information leaders can use in their assemblies. Enjoy!
ABOUT KENDALL DOOLEY
Kendall wants to see middle and high school students flourish in their relationship with God and others. He lives to make known the love of Jesus in an engaging and authentic way. He grew up in Iowa and then moved to Phoenix to attend Arizona State University. He has a degree in criminal justice and is currently working toward his Master of Arts in Missional Theology. He enjoys watching movies and biking around the valley.”
TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY
3.10 Faith and Journey to student pastor including being a pastor’s son.
6.00 Formative experience for youth.
15.00 Navigating a socially distanced worship experience during the pandemic.
17.20 Student online fatigue. 17.49 Young people being discipled by YouTube! 18.32 Student involvement. Unexpected benefit of building team through use of this medium. Mixing off-line and online methods to build engagement amongst the youth including competitions, quizzes to simply blessing individuals. Using existing resources to supplement activities.
21.19 The challenges of online modes of worship and engagement. The importance of delegating small groups to a team of leaders and building relationships to engagement and not relying on a gathering 23.21.
23.51 Range of interactions and activities for young people. Using online breakout rooms.
27.04 Leadership system & strategy, working with a multi demographic and finding the connection. The Multi-cultural future of youth in the USA. Leadership training acronym - Pursue Equip Listen and Pray PELP
30.43 “Being listened to is so close to being loved that most people cannot tell the difference.”
31.25 Leaders setting the temperature.
32.37 The difference between church leader and leader in the church
32.54 Advice for Youth Leaders in the church. Ask the WHY question. Palms down, palms up prayer.
LINKS
Instagram @dooley.kendall
Instagram @newcityhighschool
Instagram @newcitymiddleschool
Instagram @newcityphx
Website newcityphx.com
Episode 35 - Rev Chris Lee: 60 second sermon and young people
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?
Rev Chris Lee has attracted the attention of the media after gaining 177K followers on Instagram. His 60 min sermons have captured the imagination of people who might not normally engage with the church - particularly younger adults. Chris is not without his critics so we discuss the advantages of this type of communication, and is it possible to develop spiritual formation in this short attention span way?
QUESTIONS (may not be asked in the order presented depending on response)
1.00 Faith journey.
8.15 Rev Chris &his theological stance
9.00 How Rev Chris ended up with 177k following on Instagram.
12.15 The demographic engaging with what Rev Chris has to say and why they were drawn to his message. The hunger for spirituality.
14.00 Challenges observed particularly since the start of the pandemic.
17.05 OMG Effect: 60 second sermons for a fuller life. Why he chose a secular publisher (Penguin) for the book, and why did he use his spiritual title.
19.55 The Debate: The ‘Church membership’ model vs equipping and releasing.
23.00 The OMG effect book by Rev Chris Lee. His mission to speak into the lives of non-believers, people of no or little faith and the unchurched.
25.36 The case for shorter more memorable sermon. Comment on his critics. Lack of pastoral voice for Christians. Encouraging the spiritually curious to join local churches for adequate discipleship.
30.25 Reflecting on Acts: 17 and Apostle Paul at goes to Athens and preaches before the Areopagus. #OMG use as a modern-day vernacular and how he was inspired to use it to communicate with non-believers. The younger generation expectations around authenticity. On the simplicity of the gospel.
35:07 Meeting non-Christians and answering questions & challenging their expectations.
ABOUT REV CHRIS LEE
Reverend Christopher Lee is a priest who has taken the internet by storm. Rev Chris helps and inspires hundreds of thousands of his followers everyday with his sixty-second sermons, full of bite-sized wisdom for busy people.
He has written, The OMG Effect encapsulates an uplifting message of positivity and inclusivity, which has inspired millions of people globally regardless of their religious beliefs (or lack thereof) and, throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, He has been live-streaming prayer and faith sessions for those under lock-down, quarantine, or in self-isolation during the pandemic.
36.03 – 37-02 - Reverend Chris Lee on Christians bubbles and being Christianised
37.29 Would Reverend Chris Lee do a Reality TV show given his media profile? God is not trapped in the church. Why he turned down a Channel 4 TV reality show project. The benefit of wise counsel.
40.22 Advice to leaders in the church on their prayer life.
LINKS
Rev Church website https://revchris.org
Instagram - revchris7
St Saviours Church in West London- saintsaviours.net/rev-chris-lee
BOOK - The OMG Effect – AMAZON - https://www.amazon.co.uk/OMG-Effect-60-Second-SermonsFuller/dp/1529125758/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=OMG+Chris+lee&qid=1607695683&sr=8-
Aslan Books - aslanchristianbooks.com/the-omg-effect-60-second-sermons-to-live-a-fuller-life-9781529125757/
Love Your Neighbour– Church Revitalisation Trust non-profit organisation - loveyourneighbour.uk/about
Bonus Ep - Opportunities for the Church 2021
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
BONUS - What's new for 2021
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!
REVIEW THE SHOW
If you enjoy and get value out of this podcast please consider leaving a review on iTunes if you have an account. Here's the link: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/healthy-church-growth-show-podcast/id1453862091
Thanks in advance!
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
Episode 34 - Church dealing with loneliness in the community
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
Episode 33 - The Gift that may be overlooked in the Church
What is this episode all about?
Church Administration has been overlooked in some quarters. But it is essential for the smooth running and achievement of mission in local churches. It is also named as one of the spiritual gifts in the bible! Admin is not just typing as this episode will prove!
Hear what Jacinta Buckle from JWB Virtual Ministry Assistance has to say about it.
If you can spare some time to review this podcast on Apple, iTunes or where ever you listen to this podcast on, it will help other leaders in the church find it - Thank you!
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Transcript Summary
1.00 The case for Church Administration and its spiritual foundation in the bible.
3.15 Administration is a spiritual gift 1st Corn 12: 27-28. It is not just typing and sending emails.
5.15 What takes up most of a church leader’s time? How does that impact their progress?
7.00 Benefits of a virtual administrator. (9.00) Why would a church trust an organisation outside their own to work on their behalf?
10.42 Confidentiality and data protection
11.46 How assignments is disseminated to virtual assistants.
12.12 Quality checking virtual assistants on behalf of clients
13.33 Are the virtual assistants Christians?
14.20 Quality assurance – what does it involve? Having hard conversations around feedback when things are not going well.
15.58 Who are relationships established with? What challenges can arise from the client assistant relationship?
17.21 What does it cost?
19.45 News about FREE Administration support for six months specially for UK churches
23.00 Advice to leaders of the church or church leaders.
About Jacinta Buckle
Jacinta Buckle founded JWB Virtual Ministry Assistance when she felt a real calling to create a way to support Churches and ministries by taking away the everyday administrative tasks from the pastors, priests, ministers / church leaders, in order that they in turn could do what they were called to do.
Jacinta used her gifts, skills, and years of experience as an administrator to create JWB.
JWB now consists of a team of administrators and specialists who have extensive experience at a high level. The team prides itself on excelling at all tasks and being able to work with different types of Churches. Every member of the team is a Christian, so they all come with an understanding of Church life and the importance of the Church in today’s world.
LINKS
JWB Virtual Ministry Assistance - www.jwbvirtualministryassistance.co.uk
Church Consultant & Advanced Trainer - madgeobaseki.com/videos
Episode 32 - What's hybrid church and is it the future?
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ABOUT?
Stephanie Antonucci Leathe and Andy Mahon founders of altarlive.com discuss engaging church congregations and visitors in ways never done before. They explain the new term hybrid church and provide practical advice and guidance for leaders in the church.
TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY
1.00 What’s happening next on the Healthy Church Growth Show
3.45 The background of the founders of AltarLIVE.com and why it was developed out of the disruption of Covid 19 and the pandemic. The challenge with the glut of tools available on the market for churches online since the pandemic began.
9.42 Tech vs relationship building. The importance of easy intuitive online tools for churches.
11.00 What is a hybrid ministry? Will we ‘go back to normal?’ A real-life case study. (14.30) Online visitors are not passive consumers of online content. They can be part of your church community. (16.06) Online worship and fellowship a great opportunity to engage with an existing online community.
17.03 Online visitor numbers and reasons they can decline. Barna.org research regarding online visitors. The significance of the member/visitor experience i.e. watching church versus attending church
19.12 A missed opportunity to offer more than the online worship experience. The necessity for churches to constantly adapt mainly caused by the pandemic and changing national rules and restrictions. One-way broadcasting and the lack of choice for more immersive online experiences.
23.11 What local churches are doing which may restrict or prevent audience participation and engagement. The challenge of using text-based chat for certain interactions i.e. prayer requests. (26.09) The problem with trying to replicate what happened in a church building. Aesthetics, accessibility, authenticity, and the challenge achieve all these elements with an online model.
28.45 How Altar Live works. (34.15) Inclusion of live hosts (hospitality team). The ability to sit next to a friend or family and to be anonymous if required.
37.30 Is special equipment is needed/devices needed? Trust moving from the leadership to the pews created by online invite opportunities. The BIG cultural and organisational shift in churches.
40.30 How the different generations are responding to online church. The thirst for community.
46.31 Final advice and guidance for leaders in the church challenged with the shift to online worship. An opportunity to include individuals in new strategies and to identify their congregation’s gifts. There is no need to do everything at once. Taking time to evaluate.
LINKS
Altar LIVE Demo https://www.altarlive.com/video?utm_source=healthy_church_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=engagement_platform_release
How to get started with Altar LIVE: https://www.altarlive.com/support-articles/introducing-altar-live-to-your community?utm_source=healthy_church_podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=engagement_platform_release
Episode 31 – Online Streaming Basics for Churches - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-31---Online-Streaming-Basics-for-Churches-emramq
Minister Madge Obaseki website – madgeobaseki.com/videos
Episode 31 - Online Streaming Basics for Churches
Episode 31 - Online Streaming Basics for Churches
What is this episode all about?
John Porterfield from Social 180 discusses livestreaming basics for churches. What to look for, how to work with a consultant, what platforms are best for online congregational engagement and more.
About John Porterfield
Over the past 25 years, John has worked in various capacities from sales, IT, onto corporate strategic relations. He served 6 years with Harvest Christian Fellowship as a webcast producer and tech engineer supporting their national and global events. John now freelances as a live and event webcast producer supporting houses of worship, non-profits, and companies for their streaming production needs. John also works to help evangelize new technologies and innovation as part of the online streaming community.
My effort with churches is on:
· help or advisory on production solutions for webcasting, this includes software / hardware.
· Production support as a hired webcast producer for live, events, other.
· Full outsource - this is where someone will want to have a production team manage all aspects of an activity, or me where i am managing with another group. I can provide examples here: VBS , Harvest Greg Laurie, Kindred Church, others)
TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY
2.00 John Porterfield’s LIVESTREAM experience including companies & churches he’s worked with
4.15 Zoom the limits to livestreaming? What is LIVE streaming for the uninitiated?
9.15 What you need to do to make livestreaming successful in terms of engaging your online audience
15.00 Problems with giving online. What's the best way for churches to evaluate the software to support live streaming?
17.10 Resources to help build online ministry. John Porterfield’s crawl, walk, run approach to evaluating software resources. Consider equipment already owned. Working with a consultant to initially evaluate the tools.
19.00 The case for using what you have in terms of computers and other devices.
24.00 Does a church need an expert media team to make livestreaming work well? The importance of managing volunteers. The importance of not depending on just the pastor or the leader of the church to carry out tasks.
29.00 Why would church leadership approach a consultant instead of use their in-house team or do their own research?
32.00 Case study of a church John as helped with livestreaming from 0 knowledge to LIVE. Why the way we gather will never be the same again.
LINKS
These are online resources mentioned in the episode.
Social 180 Website John Porterfield – https://social180group.io/tools-page
John’s Webinar – Chalk Talk - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCFhgwI36THLEZZBiIF2FEg
Online Church case study: https://streammonkey.com/stories-blog/kindred-church
Link AWS (Amazon) Webinar - https://aws.amazon.com/media/resources/religious-organisations
FREE Trial for Streamyard - https://streamyard.com?fpr=john73
Episode 15 – Strategic Volunteer Management - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-15---Strategy-for-Church-Volunteer-Management-ehhks7
Episode 30 - How to reach more for the church on social media
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ABOUT?
Social media use for the church. What platforms to use. The theological application of social media and common mistakes/misconceptions.
TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY
2.23 Jarred & Kiara’s faith journey & how they established MTM Creative Imaging and who they serve
5.10 Their heart for serving leaders
9.10 The irony of the Millennial generation having easy access of information online. Millennials look for real life examples of what they read in scriptures, but don’t always find them.
12.30 The importance of having knowledge but then applying it in a practical way.
14.45 What the church including Generation X & and Boomers do to help the faith journey of millennials through online tools such as social media? The importance of discipleship and relationship building.
21.14 Leadership – what can leaders in the church learn from organisational structure in business. The importance of providing opportunities to serve.
24.00 Ideas for discipleship, bibles studies, church online. Generational engagement on social media with the various platforms including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tik Tok & YouTube
30.30 What can churches do to engage with social media if they have not previously. Being where the people are like Jesus. The balance between talking to the multitudes, inner circle and individuals when considering social media and the strategies. A reminder that the church doors are never closed. Bill Boards on highways and social media.
35.32 The problem we face with the focus on events. Adverting on social media – what are the advantages and why more churches don’t utilise Facebook or Instagram advertising tools.
38.00 What does it cost to organise a church social media strategy? The Kingdom Entrepreneur and the need for a marketing budget.
43.00 Advice to leaders in the church about engaging online. The importance of using non-theological language. Not neglecting women in ministry. Finding congregation members to carry out social media objectives.
BIOGRAPHY
Millennial married couple Jarred and Kiara Mason from 'Meet the Masons' fame on YouTube, are the directors of MTM Creative Imaging. Apart from serving the business community and influencers, they are passionate about using technology to reach people to share the good news. The live in Orlando, Florida and have 2 children.
LINKS & FURTHER INFORMATION
MTM CREATIVE IMAGING - If you are a Christian business, ministry or church and need a social media strategy for your church, book an initial discovery call BY EMAILING info@mtmcreativeimaging.com & mention the Healthy Church Growth Show
EPISODE 29 – How to encourage your congregation to be more active - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-29---How-to-encourage-your-congregation-to-be-more-active-em6m7a
SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS TO EXPLORE FOR CHURCH USE
TIK TOK – mainly for younger people (though used by older age groups too)
SNAP CHAT – Exclusively younger people i.e. Generation Z – teens to early 20s
INSTAGRAM – Loved by Millennials and Generation Z
FACEBOOK – has an older age profile Generation X, Boomers and some Millennials
YOUTUBE – Seems to be universal to most age groups
Episode 29 - How to encourage your congregation to be more active
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
What you'll hear on the Healthy Church Growth Show Podcast
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
Episode 28 - Is the Church hiding some of its light?
Is the Church hiding some of its light?
This episode addresses the subject of public relations i.e. PR. What is PR? How can the Church can capitalise on good news stories through PR?
We all know of good work being done by local churches, but it’s rare to hear about it outside a local context. That's an issue in a world which gets their information from sources other than the church. Isn't it time we shone our true light to expand God's kingdom?
Award winning PR expert, Evadney Campbell, director of Shiloh PR explains in this episode how local churches can navigate this under used discipline.
1.30 Evandney’s biography and experience
2.20 How people outside the Church world gather their information about the Church from sources other than the Church. That information might be inaccurate, misleading or negative. The Church seems to be insular i.e. talks to itself. The Church needs to recognise the importance of getting our collective message out to wider society.
4.07 Why don’t local churches and Christian charities do more to promote their good works? Hiding their light under a bushel.
5.30 Why the name Shiloh PR? Its biblical connection.
7.45 Some people’s understanding of has negative connotations. Why marketing, advertising and PR have different functions. What PR actually is and what benefit it is to the local Church.
12.25 A cast study of a Christian organisation using PR. Using PR to reach a wider target other than an established Christian audience i.e. people who might have a faith, but don’t attend a local Church. What would Jesus do about the injustices we are facing in this age?
18.30 What activities constitute PR? How a PR consultant works with clients
21.45 The cost of PR services.
28.00 Collaborative working with organisations who need to reach a target audience i.e. African Caribbean.
31.15 Can Churches do their own PR?
33.20 PR book on handling the media and Evadney’s breast cancer testimony
39.00 The difference between Ministry & Church
40.00 Advice to local churches who want to engage in PR activities
LINKS
Shiloh PR Website - shilohpr.com
Registration Link for Online Symposium UK Caribbean Churches and University of the West Indies 12th November 3:00pm GMT, 10:00 am EST, 11:00 am AST - https://uwi.edu/caihr/engagement/pg-historyheritage.php
Evadney’s book – How to carry out media interviews - https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Carry-Out-Media-Interviews/dp/1909389196
Minister Madge Obaseki - madgeobaseki.com/videos madgeobaseki.com/post/adjusting-to-a-new-church-norm
Testimony in Episode 28 Healthy Church Growth Show podcast
Episode 28 of the Healthy Church Growth Show podcast is a must listen. Episode 28 is called Is the Church hiding some of its light? taken from Matthew 5:14–15, Mark 4:21–25 and Luke 8:16–18.
Our guest is Evadney Campbell MBE who is a PR consultant director of Shiloh PR. A seasoned broadcast journalist, she discovered she had breast cancer a few years back. She used her recuperation period to write a book. What an inspiration! be sure to listen to Episode 28 of the Healthy Church Growth Show podcast
Please share this podcast with other Christian leaders and leave feedback on which ever platform you listen to podcasts on.
Thank you!
madgeobaseki.com/videos
Episode 27 - Where have all the men gone in the Church?
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
Episode 26 - Leading through a crisis - church new norm
What is this Episode all about?
Pastor Paul Ilo was in Episode 5 of the Healthy Church Growth Show podcast back in May 2020. He spoke eloquently about leading through crisis. We wanted to see what happened next 7 months in. This time he is with his wife Pastor Debi. They will share what they have learnt and offer insightful tips and advice to other pastors.
Transcript – Timestamp
4.00 How can they be excited about the opportunities the pandemic presents?
5.00 Percentage of congregation who’ve returned to the place of worship since lockdown. The procedures used to control the attendance of the congregation. Test and trace UK and encouraging attendees to ‘check-in’. Hygiene procedures. Risk assessments for place of worship. Contingency plans for every risk. Working closely with the hired venue to ensure everyone’s safety.
10.00 Surveying the congregation for opinions on in-person worship services. The hybrid model – an increase of platforms where online services are streamed from with the in-person service. Multiple ways of keeping in touch with the membership base and followers online. The importance of doing online well and to a standard. Whether online or in-person, people are treated the same. The mission field just got bigger. The danger of being ‘building centric’.
14.30 Couples in ministry – how does it work. Knowing where the boundaries are, strengths and division of responsibilities.
17.00 Core Ministry team leaders, communications and training.
19.00 The challenges faced for example; adjusting to a new normal; faith journeys of individuals in the pandemic. Managing the faith journey of those who’ve made a decision for Christ with social restrictions still in place. Financial challenges.
22.30 Overcoming church financial barriers, during a pandemic. The importance of not depending on congregants and members to contribute to the coffers. Applying for funding from outside bodies. Raising funds from supporters. The hands and feet of Jesus. The Church and the potential to be a social change agent.
27.00 The hybrid model of Church. The importance of rethinking the model of ministry and doing church.
30.00 Advice for church leaders. Stay FOCUSED – drawing reference from Elijah on Mount Carmel and the remnant God has preserved. 1st King 19: 10-15 2nd Kings 6 – an encouragement for Church leaders not to be afraid of the times we are in. The importance of keeping one’s mind open.
LINKS
The Higher Place UK - https://www.thehigherplaceuk.com/
EPISODE 5 Healthy Church Growth Show podcast – How church leaders can lead in a crisis
EPISODE 11 How-to-fund-raise-for-local churches mission Part 1
EPISODE 11 Part 2 How to fund raise for local churches mission
Episode 25 - FIVE ideas to adjust to the New Church norm
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
Episode 24 - What Discipleship IS and IS NOT
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?
Rev Dr Hugh Osgood uses Matthew 28: 19 (the so-called Great Commission), to remind leaders in the Church of the importance of making disciples; what it is and what it is not.
This was recorded as part of Grow The Church Now 12 Keys for Healthy Church Growth programme.
Timeline Transcript
Making, Baptising and Teaching and their relevance to discipleship
The significance of Jesus sharing this command right at the end of His life.
MAKING disciples – why we should not be doing the moulding i.e. the potter’s wheel in Jeremiah. Why we are not making people our own disciples, but Jesus disciples.
BAPTISM – alive in Christ then helping them to develop through prayer, fellowship, bible studies. Water baptism is the starting point, but also alive in the spirit.
TEACHING – teach accurately to observe all Jesus commanded. Being careful not to teach things which are irrelevant so as not to turn into a Sadducees or Pharisee with irrelevant rules and regulations.
ABOUT REV DR HUGH OSGOOD
Rev Dr Hugh Osgood is a UK based Church Leader who is the CEO of Charis Communications, Free Churches Group moderator & Churches in Communities. He is also one of the presidents of Churches Together in England.
Hugh specialises in developing Christian leaders. He is also passionate about people gaining better biblical literacy.
LINKS
www.chariscommunications.org
Episode 23 - Can a Man Run a Women's Ministry?
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.
Episode 22 - A Different way to do Church
What is this episode all about?
With the continued restrictions around the world due to the global pandemic, churches need to be creative in how they reach and continue to disciple people.
Steve and Pip Higgins discuss their use of the Alpha course based at their home and how any local church can adopt the same principles to achieve our collective purpose.
Transcript
2.0 Steve and Pip’s marriage and faith journey
5.00 Why they use the Small Group Model. Why larger church assemblies need to operate small.
7.00 The Alpha Course – a game changer for Steve and Pip.
10.55 The irony of the rich harvest field
12.00 What is the Alpha Course and why would churches want to access it? Fundamental Christians and why the Alpha course helps to create a balanced approach.
15.00 The strength of knowing what you don’t know.
17.00 The difference between ‘doing church’ and being the Church
19.00 How to operate an assembly despite lock down restrictions & the importance of creativity.
20.45 Training for trainers/facilitators. Mission shaped ministry course.
22.15 The importance of mentoring for leaders/facilitators in the church “spiritual mothers and fathers”. Pete Scazzero Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.
26.05 The advantages of operating a “small church model”. The restrictions of a traditional church setting and the conventions which could restrict people engaging further.
30.00 The difficulties with operating as a leader in fresh expressions. A lack of understanding of the calling.
36.25 Advice for anyone thinking of setting up an assembly or small group
42.45 The importance of moving on with grace and maintaining a relationship
About Steve and Pip Higgins
Steve and Pip Higgins have been married 31 years and have recently retired from teaching. They first heard about fresh expressions of church in 2005 and since then have been exploring how they can do church differently. For the last 25 years they have been living in a rural setting just outside Colchester and love being part of this community. They both taught in the village Primary school but in 2013 Steve took a sabbatical to explore what life would look like if he wasn’t a teacher whilst Pip continued to work full time. They started running The ALPHA Course from their home and from that has grown a Life Group. They continue to engage with their community wherever they can, run The ALPHA Course and are seeing God’s Kingdom grow.
LNKS
https://www.chelmsford.anglican.org/mission-and-fresh-expressions/colchester-pioneer-hub
Mission Shaped Ministry - www.missionshapedministry.org
Pete Scazzero Emotionally Healthy Leader & Church resources: https://www.emotionallyhealthy.org/shop/?v=4096ee8eef7d
Episode 21 - Establishing a New Church the 2nd time around
Episode 21 – Establishing a New Church the 2nd time around
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?
Pastor (Dr) Shana Wise is the Senior Pastor of Wise Choice Ministries. In 2016 she started the assembly, however in 2017 she gave it up. In 2019 she restarted the assembly in a different and some would say a radical way.
We discuss why she gave her local church up, why she restarted and what lessons she has learnt. It is a frank and authentic conversation.
Show Notes Timestamp
1.45 Summary of starting the church, what went wrong & the mistakes Pastor Shana made. Burnout and discouragement.
4.08 Delegation and the importance of re-evaluation accountability training and developing people in an assembly before delegating. The importance of slowing down as a leader.
7.00 The spouse and running ministry or a church. What is the dynamic? The importance of opposite opinions.
9.45 What happened in between the 1st and second time of running the church? The importance of humility and learning importance lessons. Taking responsibility for mistakes to build integrity as a leader (14.00 – 14.44).
14.59 Doing church the 2nd time around; how is it different? Completely Digital Church. The importance of patience. Changing times mean methods have to adapt. Old methods pre-2020 may no longer be effective in the church.
19.33 Exponential rise in google & YouTube searches for terms such as #prayer #faith #God. Importance of assemblies positioning themselves for those who have not experienced the Christian Faith.
20.59 Leadership structure. Examples of training delivered to leadership. Apostolic work. The importance of leaders recognising each person’s gifts and mission which may not be connected to the local church.
29.52 The debate and discussions of women operating in ministry.
33.42 Advice for those struggling in ministry or running a church and those thinking of setting a church up.
About Pastor (Dr) Shana Wise
Dr. Shana Wise is the Pastor and CEO of Wise Choice Ministries (est. 2016), a non-profit church ministry. She is the founder of The Well Christian Women’s Network (est. 2016).
Dr. Wise is the author of women’s devotional, Acts of Intercession, and The Impact of Your Election which are both available on Amazon. She received a Doctor of Divinity degree in 2019 from St. Thomas Christian University. Her passion is to teach and preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, equip others to apply the Word to their lives, and demonstrate the Word through the power of the Holy Spirit. Shana is married to Deacon Ron Wise and is the mother of four children.
LINKS
https://www.wisechoiceministriesinc.com
https://www.thewellchristianwomensnetwork.com
Episode 20 - Highlighting your cause by improving your church video
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?
Nik Read founder of the Big Picture talks about highlighting causes by improving church videos. Nik has over 20 years-experience and runs a non-profit serving non-profits. It is a practical episode which will provide insights of what people do wrong and how they can improve.
Meanwhile, Nik will be running in the London Marathon to raise funds, so visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/NikRead to support him.
Show Notes Timestamp
2.00 – What does the Big Picture do for charitable/non-profit organisations?
3.30 - The importance of a professional video for charitable causes – why that will do won’t do (4.00)
8.30 Adapting film making in Covid 19 environment & social distancing. Covid update films and why communication is key in this environment. Covid got the church out of the church (9.45)
12.15 Live Streaming and its growing importance to the church & why Zoom is not always ideal. Zoom and Google Meet 14.15
15.30 What can a good video do for a church assembly? Bringing the church to the world. Why people are daunted about walking into a church. Normalising the church experience.
17.45 The common mistakes made by leaders in the church when filming or streaming video.
22.45 The importance of preachers keeping it real and authentic in the pandemic. Remembering you can’t please and reach everybody. Recording services in the church and the physiological effect of doing so and the importance of changing the background environment when filming.
25.10 Subtitles – are they an enhancement?
27.00 Nik and the London Marathon & innovative reasons for raising funds (LINK BELOW)
32.00 How to film in a socially distanced way. Having a enough space to facilitate this. Why going live is not always the best idea. Services Big Picture offer. Why the Church needs to learn from the pandemic. Physical attendance may be down for some time, and how the Church can adapt.
34.45 CHURCH IS 24/7 NOT JUST A SUNDAY MORNING (TO 35.30)
36.14 Clarity on what organisations Big Picture can help. Registered charities & non-profits e.g. CIC, Companies Limited by Guarantee. In the USA 5013c can apply
ABOUT NIK READ
Nik Read is the Head of Production at Big Picture Charity Films, the UK's only registered charity that exists to promote the work of the third sector through visual media.
The charity was formed in 2012, after more than 20 years working in film and video, realising the growing need for charities to embrace modern methods of communication.
He is a churchwarden at St. John's in Colchester, a vibrant modern church, where he also leads a building project that supports a Romany gypsy community and orphanage in central Romania. He is passionate about seeing the church in action, mobilising its people to be active in their communities and beyond.
LINKS
The Big Picture - http://www.bigpicturecharityfilms.org/
London Marathon Fundraising for the Big Picture - https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/NikRead
Book mentioned in this episode - Half Time by Bob Buford
Episode 19 - UPDATE Healthy Church Growth Show Podcast
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?
This is just a quick update to let you know what is coming up next on the Healthy Church Growth Show Podcast.
Nik Read from the Big Picture will talk about Highlighting your cause by improving your church video. Nik has over 20 years-experience and runs a non-profit serving non-profits. It is a practical episode which will provide insights of what people do wrong and how they can improve.
Meanwhile, Nik will be running in the London Marathon to raise funds, so visit https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/NikRead to support him.
Dr Shana Wise will be on Episode 21 of the Healthy Church Growth Show. She is the Senior Pastor of Wise Choice Ministries in Florida. She will share he journey through opening an assembly, closing and then re-opening again. If you are experiencing challenges in your leadership listen to this very authentic account.
Please consider subscribing to the Healthy Church Growth Show podcast on whatever podcast platform you listen on. If you can please leave feedback to help too.
LINKS
LINKEDIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/madgeobasekiofficial/
Episode 18 - Getting Back in the Church Building Safely
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ABOUT?
With 2020 global focus on the Covid 19 pandemic, and Governments starting to lift restrictions on public worship, how can the local church plan to return to their buildings safely? Dr David Sollis from Faith Action
Links to resources appear on this page below.
EPISODE
1.50 What is FaithAction?
4.30 Dr Sollis role in for FaithActioN
7.10 Church leaders concerns during the pandemic? Including lock-down, accessing and supporting people including the vulnerable, online presence & training. The lack of normal life passage rituals i.e. weddings, funerals etc. Financial burden, shrinking donations. All festivals happening online in 2020. Mental health of clergy, church leaders, pastors.
14.45 General differences between some denomination’s liturgical practices. Case study of an American assembly & their examples of social action despite the pandemic. “Church has left the building”
20.08 The importance of local churches having clear values and mission particularly in times of crisis
21.56 How can churches prepare to open safely? What is risk assessment for churches? Risk assessment legal mandatory linked to insurance acceptance.
27.00 Breaches in the guidance and rules in local churches
28.50 How to control who walks into the local church during Covid restrictions – booking systems
29.20 1 and 2 metre rules & guidance on face masks
33.33 Case study of an assembly returning to their building pre booking and use of track and trace technology
38.00 Awareness and availability of information. Do all assemblies understand what to do? The responsibly of church leaders for health and safety of their congregants.
43.13 The church building and the 1-way system.
47.15 Advice to church leaders from Dr David Sollis
Dr David Sollis Biography
‘Dr David Sollis - A launcher and leader of innovative services, engagement & research aimed at capturing the 'Lived Experience' of service users, Carers and professionals.
David had a strong career in the Insurance industry before undertaking an academic career achieving a PhD around HIV/Aids.
David has spent the last 18 years working in the third sector with charities such as Whizz-Kidz, Rehab UK and Sported.
David has worked the last 8 years as the engagement manager and then CEO of the National award winning Healthwatch Essex.
David has recently joined Faith Action as part of the charities COVID response team as Partnership Coordinator and has been delivering focus groups, webinars and partnership discussions.
David is a committed Christian attending St Johns Church in Colchester, Essex.
LINKS
FaithAction – faithaction.net
United Reformed website - https://urc.org.uk/latest-news/3365-urc-issues-coronavirus-advice-to-its-churches
HMCLG – The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-the-safe-use-of-places-of-worship-during-the-pandemic-from-4-july
Church of England guidance - https://www.churchofengland.org/more/media-centre/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-churches
Episcopal Church of America - https://episcopalchurch.org/concerning-covid19
Episode 17 - Why ignoring theology gives half the picture
What the episode is all about
Episode 17 - Why ignoring theology gives half the picture. This conversation with Dr Carol Tomlin, will explore Theology and its importance to church leaders AND why resisting the knowledge of theology could be a disservice to our communities and congregations.
Timestamp
2.30 Why most people engage with theology without knowing it
3.00 What is THEOLOGY?
6.30 Jesus is enough – is that the whole picture? The bible as a historical document. Understanding the bible in context. If its in the bible it must be right, surely?
11.30 The importance for leaders to study the bible in the systematic way
12.30 Other resources available to help the study of God’s word e.g. Craig Keener (https://craigkeener.com)
15.15 the importance of understanding theology to defend the Christian faith.
17.00 Dealing with modern day issues from a theological stand-point – a real life example
19.00 The thirst for faith and God has risen exponentially
20.00 Resistance to formal Christian Education – what the reasons are. Some of the reasons behind it and why this affects Pentecostal denominations.
23.00 Why some ministers do themselves and their communities a disservice by resisting theological education.
26.30 College of Theology Kingdom School of Theology and why it is an online resource. Why it is geared to International Pentecostal Charismatic ministers. Why it is not only for ordained leaders.
32.30 Theological Ministry Studies course
36.00 Theological reflection & its importance.
FURTHER INFORMATION ON COMMENTARIES WHICH HELP WITH EXEGETICAL STUDY OF THE BIBLE
· The Tony Evans Bible Commentary
· Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible, 6 Volumes
· Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament
· The Bible Knowledge Commentary: Old and New Testament
BIOGRAPHY
She is an award-winning academic and educational consultant who is currently a visiting fellow at the University Leeds.
She is the author of several academic publications, including her most recent book,
Preach It - Understanding African Caribbean Preaching
Dr Tomlin is the Principal of Kingdom School of Theology.
Rev Dr Tomlin senior leader of Restoration Fellowship Ministries which has branches in Leeds and Birmingham.
She has been involved in training ministers which include courses at the Queen’s Theological Foundation, Birmingham. She’s also taught in Universities, in the UK and further afield.
LINKS
Kingdom School of Theology - www.kstheology.com
https://www.facebook.com/KSTheology/
PREACH IT (Understanding African and Caribbean Preaching - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Preach-Understanding-African-Caribbean-Carol-Tomlin/dp/033405737X
Healthy Church Growth Show Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/2293664744206548/?source=unknown
KEEP IN TOUCH WITH THE HOST AND GET SHOW UPDATES
Facebook – Minister Madge Obaseki @madgeobasekiofficial
Website - madgeobaseki.com/videos
Facebook - Grow The Church Now @growthechurchnow2
Episode 16 - A Church Leaders experience of the pandemic effect
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
Episode 15 - Strategy for Church Volunteer Management
WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT?
Following on from Episode 14 when the operational aspects of Volunteer Management were discussed, this episode will address strategic volunteer management for local churches.
This episode is practical and you might want to take notes of the key points.
EPISODE TIMESTAMP
1.20 Subjects to be covered:
- How volunteers contribute to achieving mission
- Matching suitable volunteer roles
- Setting out clear expectations & responsibilities
- Providing support and training
- Clear Communications
- Giving and receiving feedback to volunteers
2.05 About Madge Obaseki background in ministry
5.50 The importance of volunteers in the local church. The frustrations around volunteer management.
7.25 What is a volunteer? The holistic approach.
8.50 How volunteers contribute to achieving mission. What does mission mean? What is mission in the local church? The importance of making mission known to all your assembly. What is Vision?
12.10 Matching volunteers to suitable volunteer roles. The right and wrong way to source volunteers.
16.49 Setting out clear expectations & responsibilities. What is a role description?
20.18 Providing support and training for volunteers. Ephesians 4: 12-15. Volunteers may also need discipleship. Different ways of training.
24.06 Confident and clear Communications with volunteers. Why the lack of clear communication can lead to confusion and conflict. Using multiple levels of media to communication to all.
29.25 Giving and receiving feedback to volunteers. The importance of feedback. The feedback sandwich!
33.55 Horses for courses. i.e. not everyone is suitable for a role or situation. The importance of honouring your volunteers.
ABOUT 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 advanced trainer. Additionally she has also run several 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
Linkedin Instagram Facebook @madgeobasekiofficial
W madgeobaseki.com/videos
W www.growthechurchnow.com
Episode 14 - Managing Volunteers in the Church
Episode 14 - Managing Volunteers in the Church
ABOUT THIS EPISODE
The Church is generally dependent on the good will of its volunteers to achieve mission through local churches. Church Leaders have often bemoaned the fact that they don’t have enough volunteers to carry out the practical aspects of running a ministry. This episode will explore the practical, operational aspects of volunteer management in the local church. In Episode 15 the strategic management of volunteers will be covered.
EPISODE TIMESTAMP – TRANSCRIPT
3.30 Identifying volunteers. Pastors as Chief Servants. Church Leaders and Pastors exemplifying a servant’s heart.
5.20 Creation Fest and why volunteers are the heart of the ministry. Leading 500 volunteers. Team leader’s responsibility for volunteers. Demonstration of Chief Servant.
7.00 How to attract volunteers for ministry of church. Testimonial from previous volunteers and using social media, and networking at churches. Getting the best fit for each volunteer. Application forms and skills audit. Reference checking. The significance of the return volunteers. Background checks, including DBS or Life Skin for working with vulnerable groups.
12.45 Training and developing volunteers in ministry or church. Importance of prayer.
15.15 Why volunteers return year after year. Building relationships. Feedback to volunteers given with grace, build them up and prayer. Role descriptions and expectations for the week. “Philippians 2:17
18.00 Team Leader training
19.45 The importance of looking for and developing leaders
20.30 The importance of reflecting on what worked and what did not work
LINKS
THE CHURCH AND DIGITAL EVANGELISM
ABOUT THIS EPISODE
This episode is about how we can best carry out digital evangelism given the current global circumstances. We talk about what the traditional approach has been and how we as a church can capitalise on the situation. Andy Frost from Share Jesus International provides practical insights.
EPISODE TIMESTAMP - TRANSCRIPT
5.00 Why the digital space is more important than ever for evangelism. Why do people fear sharing their faith? research from Church of England. The difficulties of articulating our faith.
6.00 Becoming insular with God rather than seeing the bigger picture. Looking in rather than out of our church home or assemblies and why the message is not shared as it should be. God is a God of all people not just for Christians.
7.15 What does CHURCH really mean? Our meeting places may have closed but we are still the church body. We can’t GO to church because we ARE the Church. The importance of knowing when to gather and when to scatter. It is beyond Sunday morning between 10 & 12noon!
9.45 Steps to engaging with non-believers across digital platforms. Theological framework – based on Daniel. The church potential to grow in lock-down. People are looking for answers in the midst of the pandemic.
12.00 The safety of checking church out online. Why church online is inevitably more appealing to those who’ve never previously engaged with it. The importance of going where the people are. As a Church we seems to be playing catch up.
15.25 Practical evangelism. WhatsApp for outreach. Alpha Course online. Portable Priest!
19.50 How to build community outside our church homes. How to be more relatable with non-Christians.
24.50 Converting non-Christians – should we – is it our job?
25.00 What are church assemblies experience of digital church during lock-down? Research on the subject. Changing the culture of our churches now.
The importance of reaching out to a select amount of people, building relationship, praying and interceding & the importance of following through.
LINKS
Share Jesus International - www.sharejesusinternational.com
The Adventures of the Ginger Bishop and the Balding Vicar YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-gMA5-64_M&feature=emb_logo
ABOUT ANDY FROST FROM SHARE JESUS INTERNATIONAL
Andy Frost has been the Director of Share Jesus International since 2008. Share Jesus leads scores of projects
At the heart of all that he does, he wants to help people follow Jesus. He is a popular speaker who loves telling the stories of Jesus.
Is digital church here to stay?
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)
Episode 11 (PART 2) How to fund raise for local churches and mission
ABOUT THIS EPISODE
This is part 2 of How to fund raise for fundraising for local churches and missions.
EPISODE TIMESTAMP - TRANSCRIPT
0.20 Simple practical activities the local church can carry out to maximise fundraising and improve connections & ongoing communications with their congregants
5.00 the importance of growing relationships during times of crisis
5.30 organisation social change agent and lack of systems which inhibit local churches from responding effectively & engaging expertise in the congregation
7.45 Money follows a strong vision. The pastor and their role strengths and how they might not necessarily be the strategist for fundraising. Inviting other gifts
9.15 Churches spreading their selves thin with limited capacity trying to do too much & how to understand your community needs first
11.15 using stories and testimonies of success led by a gifted communicator and the importance of transparency so congregants know how the church is using their money to change lives
12.45 The importance of creating space during the church service to communicate efforts in terms of community activities and fundraising
14.10 Working in silos and why it does not benefit your fundraising activities
16.00 areas of stress for leaders – identifying leaders and letting go
17.00 The importance of having the correct legal structure for your local church & abiding the laws of the land wherever you are & organisations in your country which can help you set up a structure.
18.45 The purpose of a Stewardship Committee which goes beyond just accountants including young people, good communicators, New members who have fresh enthusiasm
19.30 The importance of putting a biblical perspective in your quest for stewardship 2nd Corn 8: 5, consistent spiritual practices and planning
23.40 Tithing and why it has become so legalistic in some local churches
26.00 Sourcing Fundraising practical opportunities & ideas. Clear presentation of the needs in the community. Match funding and raising funds elsewhere.
31.30 The importance of claiming your place at the heart of the community. Networking with other local Christian communities and local politicians. The importance of relationship building with local politicians and networks in the community.
33.00 Finding sources of funding from various networks and organisations
34.00 Why you should use a professional fundraiser, how stewardship can increase by 35% and the biblical perspectives. Why your congregation could be giving to other organisations because of their stories of impact.
37.15 The process of fundraising
38.15 Summary of the content of this episode on Fundraising for Churches
ABOUT REDINA KOLANECI
Redina is the Senior Fundraising and Stewardship Consultant based in Colchester, UK. Find out more at: christianfundraisingconsultancy.com
ORGANISATIONS TO HELP WITH LEGAL STRUCTURE
Stewardship UK https://www.stewardship.org.uk
Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability USA https://www.ecfa.org/
Christian Management Association Australia https://www.cma.net.au/
GRANT MAKING BODIES (UK)
Church Urban Fund - https://cuf.org.uk
Capital Mass https://www.capitalmass.org.uk/