A Digital Detox for Advent: Rediscovering Presence in a Screen-Saturated World
As ministry leaders, we often find ourselves at the center of a paradox. We strive to create spaces of connection and reflection, yet we too are vulnerable to the relentless pull of screens and notifications. Our congregations and youth—perhaps even we ourselves—may be longing for a reprieve from the constant hum of digital distraction. What better time to embrace a digital detox than during the season of Advent, a season that calls us to quiet expectation, intentional preparation, and deep reflection?
Advent, the season of waiting for the Light of Christ, invites us to slow down, to make space for what truly matters. It is an ideal time to step away from the noise of the digital world and foster meaningful connections with God, one another, and ourselves.
Retelling the Bible with Rev. Scott McAndless
If there’s one thing we know as ministry leaders, it’s that stories matter. They connect us, teach us, and reveal truths in ways no lecture ever could. Jesus himself taught in parables, captivating his listeners and helping them see God’s kingdom in ways they never expected. Our guest this week, this week on the Ministry Forum podcast - Rev. Scott McAndless has a gift for storytelling—something you can tell as soon as you hear him talk. On this own podcast - Retelling the Bible, he retells a biblical story in a way that makes you sit up and listen, almost as though you’re hearing it for the first time. But it’s not just a creative exercise. It’s about digging into scripture, exploring its richness, and letting it speak in ways that resonate deeply with today’s world.
Leadership Fundamentals for Ministry
Every ministry leader, whether you’re a seasoned pastor or a volunteer leading a small group, has encountered moments where they felt stretched thin. Perhaps you’ve wrestled with how to navigate a conflict with a staff member or volunteer. Maybe you’ve struggled to make decisions with clarity and confidence, or you’ve wondered how to rebuild trust in a congregation that has experienced division.
These aren’t just practical problems; they’re spiritual ones too. As leaders in the church, we’re called to model Christ’s example—to lead with humility, grace, and truth. But without intentional development, these qualities can be hard to sustain in the face of daily pressures.
And because at Ministry Forum we believe no ministry leader should have to navigate these challenges alone - we’ve partnered with experts in leadership development to host a 5 week series on the Fundamentals of Leadership for Ministry Leaders. Through this series you’ll gain practical tools and encouragement to lead with authenticity and clarity.
A Reflection on Clergy and Seminary Student Health
Recent studies have painted a sobering picture of clergy health. The Clergy Health Trends Report from the Duke Clergy Health Initiative, which spans 15 years of data on United Methodist clergy in North Carolina, reveals persistent challenges. Clergy experience significantly higher rates of chronic conditions such as obesity, asthma, and high cholesterol compared to the general population. Seminary students, too, face unique pressures that can disrupt their health routines, making these findings relevant not only for those currently serving but for those preparing for ministry.
Celebrating Diversity in Worship: Lessons from Nigerian Friends
I am extremely blessed to be part of a church that values music and diversity. One area of growth is in our Nigerian membership. About four times a year, we shift the worship to an intergenerational experience. On Sunday November 17, the worship was shaped around the gifts and stories from our Nigerian friends.
Breaking Down the Walls Between Age Groups
For years, churches have been built on a well-meaning strategy: dividing the community into specific age groups to meet their unique needs. It’s the norm in most churches — separate ministries for children, youth, young adults, seniors. It seemed logical and even beneficial at the time. After all, who better to relate to a teenager than another teenager? And wouldn’t seniors rather be with people who understand their stage of life? But over time, these well-intentioned efforts to focus on particular age groups have built something unintended: age silos.
Worship Resources - we’ve got you covered!
It’s Advent season, and perhaps you’re looking for something different to inspire your worship planning, or maybe you’re thinking about changes for the new year — whether it’s a creative idea for intergenerational worship, a resource to deepen your congregation’s engagement with Advent themes, or just a fresh piece of media to use in a service, here are some resources to help you!
Blue Christmas & Longest Night of the Year Resources
If you’re planning a Blue Christmas or Longest Night service, or if you’d like to offer some extra support to those who may be struggling, here are some resources that can help you create a meaningful experience.
When Leaders Need to Grieve Too
When someone in your congregation passes away, it can be a deeply emotional time for everyone, including you. As a ministry leader, you’re there to offer comfort, guidance, and support—but that doesn’t mean you’re immune to the grief and loss. It’s okay to feel sad, to take a moment for yourself, and to acknowledge the weight of the moment. Taking care of yourself isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential.
Here are some simple ways to be gentle with yourself as you walk with others through this difficult time.
Grief & Bereavement Resources for Ministry Leaders
In ministry, we often walk alongside individuals and families through some of their most vulnerable times. Grief and loss are universal, yet each experience of them is profoundly personal, making compassionate, thoughtful support essential. Many leaders find it beneficial to have resources on hand to offer meaningful care, comfort, and reflection as they guide their communities through times of loss.
Our Top 5 Posts From the Past Year
As we mark the first anniversary of MinistryForum.ca, we’re excited to look back on some of the most impactful content from the past year. These top five posts really cover the breadth of our mission: to equip, inspire, and encourage ministry leaders across Canada. From resources for lay leaders stepping into pastoral roles, to insights into the spiritual lives of Gen Z, to podcasts for every topic under the sun and even a post that just helps take one thing of your Easter to-do list these articles reflect the range of topics that matter most to our community. Let’s revisit these popular posts…
Resources for Budget Season
There comes that season in the Church’s life when one turns to stewardship, givings, and fundraising… and budget season!
Celebrating 1 Year of MinistryForum.ca
One year ago, MinistryForum.ca launched with a mission to connect, resource, and support ministry leaders across Canada. It has been a year filled with growth, encouragement, and connection as we’ve built up this online community - spaning all aspects of ministry work. As we reflect on this milestone, we’re filled with gratitude for the way Ministry Forum has become a space where ministry leaders can find trusted resources, share insights, and celebrate our diverse faith journeys together! THANK YOU Ministry Forum Community!
Here’s a look at what we’ve accomplished in our first year!
Books for Church Decline, Conflict and Seasons of Change
Decline, conflict, deconstruction, change… these can all be difficult seasons in the life of a congregation. If you’re in one of these seasons right now we’ve put together a list of books that might help - whether they give you some insight into what’s happening, give you hope for a brighter tomorrow, or just make you feel a little more seen in through this difficult period.
Self-Leadership with Rev. Dr. Peter Coutts
As a leader you’re often focused on others: guiding, supporting, mediating, vision casting to your congregation… But have you ever found yourself wondering, “Who’s guiding me?” It’s a question that many of us in ministry quietly carry, and it’s exactly why we worked with the Rev. Dr. Peter Coutts to develop a Self-Leadership course.
Strengthening Lay Leaders in Seasons of Decline and Transition
When a congregation is in a season of decline, or interim leadership - it can feel overwhelming. Where should we start? What should we focus on? Is there any hope to turn things around? These are big questions and we don’t promise to answer them in a single post, but the following might help shed a little light into a season of ministry that feels darker than usual…
Retreating with Rev. Dr. Kristine O’Brien
This week on the podcast Rev. John Borthwick chats with Rev. Dr. Kristine O'Brien, the Executive Director of Crieff Hills Retreat Centre. Kristine reflects on her shift from congregational ministry to leading Crieff Hills, stressing how vital Sabbath rest and breaks (or "intermissions") are for avoiding burnout and sparking creativity in ministry. She talks about how taking intentional time for rest can refresh ministry leaders, helping them serve more effectively. Kristine also shares how Crieff Hills has evolved, now welcoming a variety of groups—from nonprofits to different faith traditions. The centre focuses on hospitality, spiritual renewal, and even innovative projects like ecological farming. This discussion highlights the importance of rest, creativity, and adaptability for healthy and thriving ministry.
Why you should say “yes” to going to that conference.
“Another event? More time away from the church, more cost, more travel?… is it really worth it?
The short answer is YES! conferences can be vital gatherings for your growth and sustainability in ministry — not just for the sessions and speakers, but for what can happens in between too! So, let’s talk about why attending conferences should be part of your ministry rhythm and why lifelong learning is a gift we sometimes forget to unwrap.
10 Ways to Make Friends in Ministry
Ministry Is Not a Solo Journey! Finding friends in ministry takes effort, but it’s worth it. Having people who understand and support you makes all the difference in sustaining a vibrant, faithful, and joyful ministry.
Loneliness and Isolation as a Ministry Leader
As ministry leaders, sometimes, sadly the Church is the last place that one might look for community.
So where is your community?
Who are your people?
Inspired by these thoughts today, I’d invite you to consider this question of community to curb loneliness and isolation as a ministry leader and in the context of the Church by exploring these suggested resources.