The Latest in Might
One of the characteristics of Christian contemplative spirituality is a humble acknowledgement that we do not understand the ground on which we stand, and yet have a child-like faith that God is present in every moment. It is out of this awareness that Thomas Merton shared this prayer in his book, “Through The Year With... Continue Reading
The Latest in Movement
It is safe to say that unless we are committed and faithful to some form of prayer we will most likely never experience transformation. In the Christian tradition, spiritual reading, meditation and contemplation are aspects of a prayer life committed to the process of self-transformation. And, as we shall see, these three forms of prayer... Continue Reading
The Latest in Messages
Lately there’s been a lot of talk about which approaches we should use to address problematic behavior and oppressive systems and beliefs in our churches, schools, institutions, government, and especially in our online communities – and two options people have come up with are calling in and calling out. Let’s take a look at each... Continue Reading
The Latest in Manpower
The Micromanager can be found in every organization, including and maybe especially in churches. Most every minister has a story to tell about a micromanager pastor. Why are pastors prone to becoming micromanagers? Micromanagement stems from insecurity and lack of trust, and pastors are often insecure and distrustful………and for good reason. No one is a... Continue Reading
The Latest in Measurement
Goal setting and the pursuit of goals is generally perceived as positive activities for any person or organization wishing to accomplish meaningful results. What is rarely acknowledged is the two disappointments that accompany the pursuit of goals. One of the two disappointments is that of failing to reach a goal. The other is when one... Continue Reading
The Latest in Maximization
There is a fundamental difference between ancient indigenous peoples, ancient Greeks, and modern Americans that provides timely insight for today’s church leaders. Today we are people of precept. We are rule and law driven society that relies on documents such as the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and laws passed by elected officials to bring... Continue Reading
The Latest in Methods
It is at times when problems seem insurmountable that churches and organizations most need to focus on a positive vision for the future, rather than merely avoiding a negative one. Behavioral research has shown that when groups focus on solving problems, they soon become depressed and anxious, but when they formulate plans by working backward... Continue Reading
The Latest in Mission
When I encounter a church or organization struggling with discovering an effective vision, I often share with them a story from the movie, Gandhi. In the early part of his career, Mohandas Gandhi was encouraged to become involved in politics. Instead, he went on a long train journey visiting the farms and villages throughout India.... Continue Reading
The Latest in Meetings
I know, all the church needs is another committee and another meeting to attend. That is my general sentiment as well, but there is one committee lacking in most congregations that is worth considering…..a Clearness Committee. A Clearness Committee is designed to provide a spiritual community approach to personal discernment, and comes from the Quaker... Continue Reading
The Latest in Money
In the article, “Church Staffing Levels – Getting It Right,” we examined the effect of Parkinson’s First Law, “work expands to fill the time allotted” and its application to church staffing. A corollary is Parkinson’s Second Law, “expenditures rise to meet income,” a law that has application to church budgets and expenditures. Northcote Parkinson’s satirical... Continue Reading
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Jim is a Church Organizational Leadership and Management Coach, Consultant and Trainer. Throughout his career Jim has demonstrated a passion for showing Pastors and Ministers how to use organizational tools for church and personal growth and health.
More About Jim“For I may be absent in body, but I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see how well ordered you are and the strength of your faith in Christ.” Colossians 2:5