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As leaders in congregations we can help others understand and recognise how God is present in everyday life. These events can impact the building of a connected faith community.

Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely… Read more

At the heart of equipping people for their lifelong faith formation are the Four Key Faith Practices: Caring Conversations, Devotions, Service, and Rituals and Traditions. Growing Faith Moments have been created to encourage congregations and families to celebrate those special moments that happen in our life. It’s a gentle way of bringing God into everyday life…. Read more

Often delving into the harder questions, Talking Points are bible studies designed to encourage small groups to journey in faith together. Here’s a sample of what you’ll find… Gifts are abilities God gives to meet the needs of others in Christ’s name: speaking, encouraging, serving, evangelising, teaching, leading, administering, counselling, discipling, organising. Graces, often called… Read more

Guiding Principle #9 | Opportunities are given to participate in acts of service that show the love of Christ. We grow in faith and discipleship by engaging in acts of service to those in need. Jesus calls us to be humble; he showed us this in a most intimate way when he washed the feet… Read more

Encouraging our children in their faith What kind of adults do we want our children to become? How do we help shape our children’s values and beliefs? How do we help them be a positive influence in their community? Research shows that parents continue to be the greatest influence on their children’s faith. As parents… Read more

What can we do when someone we love has one of those life-changing times? Too often we call, express our sympathy, and then say, “Please let me know what I can do!” Unfortunately, while the sentiment behind such a statement is good, the reality is that we’ve just added one more thing to the distressed… Read more

Often during times of personal crisis, children ask hard questions. How do we answer those questions? Avoid simplistic answers or responses, address their questions and concerns. Older children may be thinking…”Where is God in all of this?” or “How could a loving God let these terrible things happen?” We need to be honest about what has… Read more

Establishing an intergenerational community does not mean eradicating age-specific ministries. As important as it is to embrace intergenerational values, it is also important to keep that in balance with age-specific ministry. Research shows that age-specific ministry has not proven sustainable for ongoing faith transmission. This is particularly applicable among young adults who have grown up exclusively… Read more

Grow Coaching is an interactive process that helps individuals, ministry teams and congregations to practise vibrant faith in a changing world. Through Grow Coaching, we work intentionally with congregations to re-think child, youth and family ministry in the 21st century. Grow Ministries began the ‘gathering’ phase of coaching congregations in the Western Darling Downs in… Read more