(This is the third column in a 5-part series on The Basics.)

Different people have differing perspectives on the purpose of the church. Some mistakenly think of the church as a social gathering place for the religious elite. Others see the church as a breeding ground for legalist and judgmental personalities. Yet there are many more who experience the church as a place of grace, a community of encouragement, and a safe space for recovery. Dr. Vance Havner often reminded his congregation, “The church is a hospital for sinners, and not a museum for saints.”

Have you ever paused to ponder the purpose of the church? In our busy lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the routines of church activities without fully grasping the profound purpose that unites us as a spiritual family. This week, let’s reflect on the question, “What is the purpose of the church?”

• A church is a local expression of the body of Christ. Inspired by the life of Christ and guided by the Holy Spirit, we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus in the world today. We unify around God’s mission, not our particular preferences, to offer things like generous hospitality, an inclusive welcome, an encouraging word, a helping hand, and a healing touch.
• The church refers to people, not a building. A church is composed of flesh and blood, not brick and mortar. Do you remember the little nursery rhyme about the church many of us were taught as children? As we folded our hands in a prayerful position with fingers turned inward, we would say, “Here is the church and there is the steeple.” Then we would turn our interlocked fingers upward as we said, “Open the doors and see all the people.”
• We often gather on a church campus for worship. Worship is our time to honor and praise our Creator, to pray together, and to offer our time, talent, and treasure to serve God. Worship is at the heart of our purpose, aligning us with God’s will and nourishing our spiritual lives.
• The church is a spiritual community for support and encouragement. The local church becomes our primary spiritual family, providing support, encouragement, and love to one another. In Acts 2:42, we read that the early believers “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Our church community is a source of strength and companionship on our spiritual journey.
• The church provides resources for spiritual growth and discipleship. We are called to grow in our knowledge of God’s Word, to deepen our relationship with Christ, and to mature in our faith. As Ephesians 4:12-13 tells us, the church equips us for works of service and builds us up “until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”
• Each member of the church is commissioned to share the Good News. The church is a beacon of light to the world. It’s not a place to keep our faith hidden but to share it with others. Our purpose extends beyond our church walls to reach out to those who have not yet encountered the love of Christ. We are called to be ambassadors of the gospel, fulfilling Christ’s Great Commission to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19).
• A church embodies grace and advocates for justice. Through our church, we actively engage in acts of compassion and service. And through our church, we become the hands and feet of Jesus as we live out our faith by caring for the needy, comforting the brokenhearted, advocating for the underserved, and working to make the world a better place. James 1:27 reminds us that “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”

It is through the combined work of local churches that I see God most at work in the world to offer hope, share grace, and advocate for justice. Popular author and Atlanta native, Philip Yancey, confessed, “I rejected the church for a time because I found so little grace there. I returned because I found grace nowhere else.”

In his sermon titled, “The Church Is Worth the Effort,” long-time Atlanta pastor Dr. Bill Self, proclaimed: “The church is a solid oak tree, not a fragile tea cup. It has withstood Roman imperialism, Jewish legalism, pagan optimism, medieval institutionalism, the excesses of the reformers, wars and rumors of wars, a youth quake, modern skepticism, southern provincialism, resurgent fundamentalism, and heresies in each generation that seem never to die. It can withstand anything our generation can throw at it. It has been victimized by unprepared and selfish clergy, tone-deaf musicians, manipulative members, argumentative deacons, demanding denominations, unloving reformers and greedy politicians. Still it continues to provide love, affirmation and community to the fallen in the face of alienation. The church is worth the effort.”

As we reflect on the purpose of the church, may we remember that each one of us plays a unique role in fulfilling the mission of the church. It’s not just the responsibility of the leadership or a select few; it’s a collective effort of every member of the body of Christ to do the work of the church.

Despite its imperfections, being a part of a church or spiritual community is the best way I know to become equipped and encouraged to serve God by serving others.

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor at the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches. He and his wife, Amanda, currently reside in Brookhaven, Georgia.)

In recent weeks, I’ve been having more conversations about baptism than usual. Some of the conversations are with parents who are asking about baptism on behalf of their children. Other conversations are with adults, most of whom are new to the church and the Christian life. And I have enjoyed conversations with students who are thinking about baptism.

There are many baptism stories in the Bible, including the baptism of John, the baptism of Jesus, and the baptism of the Ethiopian eunuch. My perspectives on baptism are shaped by the Baptist tradition in which I was raised. We practice baptism by immersion, which means we go under the water during baptism. However, the churches I have served respect and appreciate other traditions of baptism.

Some traditions hold that baptism is sacramental while others describe the act of baptism as symbolic. In describing baptism as a bold commitment, Rachel Held Evans advised, “​​In the ritual of baptism, our ancestors acted out the bizarre truth of the Christian identity: We are people who stand totally exposed before evil and death and declare them powerless against love. There’s nothing normal about that.”

As you think more intentionally about baptism, here are some of the questions I’ve been asked over the years, along with the responses I have given:

1. What is baptism? A general definition of the word baptism is “a rite of washing with water as a sign of religious purification and consecration.” Christian baptism is more specific. Baptism is a visual confession of faith wherein a follower of Jesus is dipped or immersed in water, much like Jesus, as a way of declaring or sharing their faith with others.

2. Who should be baptized? Those who have committed themselves to following Jesus are invited, some say commanded, to be baptized. Sometimes baptism comes at the end of a catechism or discipleship class for young believers. Adults who make a Christian commitment later in life will also find baptism to be meaningful and affirming. As a pastor, I encourage individuals to be baptized soon after they commit their lives to following Jesus.

3. Does being baptized make you a Christian? Although baptism does not make you a Christian, baptism is one of the many ways we let others know we have decided to become a Christian. Just as a wedding ring lets others know you are married, baptism lets others know you are a Christian.

4. Is there a minimal age for a person to be baptized? While some traditions practice infant baptism as an act of dedication and consecration, our Baptist tradition of baptism is to baptize individuals who have reached an age where they can make a willful and conscientious decision to follow Jesus. Some churches have a policy that specifies a minimal age. For example, I know of churches that have a minimal age of 7, 9, and 12 years old.

5. Is it necessary to be baptized in a church building? Absolutely not! However, it is often convenient and meaningful to be baptized in the church where you worship. Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River. My home church did not have an indoor baptistery, so I was baptized in a nearby creek. In addition to church baptistries, I have conducted baptisms in lakes, creeks, oceans, and swimming pools. Baptisms can be experienced wherever there is water.

6. Can a person be baptized more than once? Although the Bible does not give an example of someone being baptized multiple times, there are examples in Christian history of believers being baptized more than once. There are three reasons a person might be baptized more than once: 1) Some request a baptism of rededication after they have neglected their faith for a prolonged season. 2) Some churches require new members to be re-baptized if they were baptized in a different faith tradition or by a different method of baptism. 3) Christians may request baptism in an iconic location. For example, Christians who embark on a tour of the Holy Land (Israel) may choose to be baptized in the Jordan River, the iconic location where Jesus was baptized.

7. What is the next step once I decide to be baptized? If you are an elementary or middle school student, it is important to talk with your parents about your baptism. Then they can join you in speaking with your minister. If you are an adult or teenager, you should contact your pastor or student minister soon after you have made a commitment to Christ, so they can assist you in preparing for baptism and setting a date for your baptism.

My baptism was one of the most meaningful and memorable experiences in my early walk of faith. I hope that your baptism will be meaningful and memorable also.

Just remember that baptism is the starting line of your faith journey, not the finish line. Your baptism marks the beginning of your spiritual walk, not your arrival at full spiritual maturity.

If you have decided to follow Jesus, it is time to be baptized. Popular preacher and author Max Lucado contends, “Baptism separates the tire kickers from the car buyers.”

Baptism is sort of like a watery tattoo on our body and soul, identifying us with the Jesus we follow.

If you have additional questions about baptism, please contact me or a minister in your neighborhood to get more information.

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor at the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches. He and his wife, Amanda, currently reside in Brookhaven, Georgia.)

(This is the second column on a series about The Basics.)

These are the words I wrote as a fifteen-year-old in the front of my KJV Scofield Reference Bible, Red Letter Edition, just after my baptism: “I was saved on June 26, 1975 at 1:30 a.m. at the Colonial Apartments on Laguna Beach near Panama City, Florida… I was baptized on July 6, 1975 with Mark Smith, Brandon Smith and Mike Tiller by Rev. Tommy Reaves at the creek behind Donald Lloyd’s house.”

After I made my public commitment to Christ and was baptized, my grandmother encouraged me to write the date of those significant events in the front of my Bible so I would never forget them. She said, “If you write it down, it will be easier to remember it and to revisit it.”

Baptism in that cold country creek was a significant moment recorded in my Bible with a pen and in my soul with permanent ink. So, what is the meaning of baptism and why is it significant?

Baptism is a visible testimony of the invisible commitment an individual has made to follow Jesus. It is a watery picture of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. That is one of the reasons that we as Baptists practice baptism by immersion. And that is the reason a minister often declares as a candidate is being immersed, “Buried with Christ in baptism, and raised to walk in newness of life, I baptize you in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.”

Although baptism is not an act that “saves” us, baptism is an act that identifies us as a follower of Jesus. Popular preacher and author Max Lucado says, “Baptism separates the tire kickers from the car buyers.” In other words, when we are baptized, we are no longer content to hide in the crowd of spectators applauding Jesus.  Rather, we “buy in” to what it means to be a full-fledged follower of Jesus.

Brian McLaren proposes that “Baptism is rich in meaning. It suggests cleansing. When you are a disciple, you understand that you are cleansed by Christ. You understand that Christ died in your place on the cross, paying for your sins, fully forgiving you for all your wrongs. You are cleansed from guilt, and you are becoming a cleaner, healthier, more whole person.”

There’s an old gospel song that says, “I can tell you time, I can show you the place, where the Lord saved me by his wonderful grace.” I certainly do not believe that everyone has to remember the time, date, and location of their conversion and baptism to be considered a genuine Christian. But for me, remembering my baptism has helped me to confirm and reaffirm my faith during some pretty tough times.

Do you remember your baptism?  As followers of Jesus who learn and live out Christ’s teaching in a Baptist community of faith, being baptized is pretty important…not so much to “seal the deal” but to confirm and launch us into a life of grace and growth. Baptism is deeply meaningful and becomes a vital part of our life’s story…a part of the story to be remembered, treasured, and lived forward.

If you or a member of your family is thinking about the possibility of being baptized, please contact me or a minister in your community who can help you plan and prepare for the experience of baptism.

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor at the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches. He and his wife, Amanda, currently reside in Brookhaven, Georgia.)

(This the first column in a 5-part series on The Basics.)

In 1966, Peter Scholtes, who served as a parish priest and choral conductor, composed a hymn that declares, “And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love, yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.”

Love is one of the many distinguishing characteristics of a Christian. Acts 11:26 tells us, “The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch.” But what does it truly mean when we refer to someone as a Christian? In this series of pastoral reflections, I am revisiting the fundamental tenets of our faith, developing responses to questions I am frequently asked about the meaning and mission of Christianity.

So, let’s start at the very beginning with the question: What does it mean to be a Christian? Different people hold various interpretations of what it means to be a Christian, making it important to clarify what we mean by this terminology. In doing so, we not only gain a deeper understanding of our identity as Christians but also equip ourselves to invite others into this transformative journey.

• A Christian is a follower of Jesus. At its core, being a Christian revolves around a commitment to follow Jesus. The various ways people describe becoming a Christian all lead to this central point. It’s an allegiance to the teachings, values, and path set by Christ. It’s living in such a way that we resemble Jesus.
  
• The word “Christian” means “little Christ” or “like Christ.” The disciples were called Christians at Antioch because they resembled Jesus. It is worth noting that in the Bible, the disciples did not refer to themselves as Christians but were called Christians by others who observed the lifestyle of the disciples.
  
• Jesus used a variety of metaphors to describe the beginning of the Christian walk. A few examples of the common phrases used in the gospels to describe how one embraces the Christian way of life is to be “born again” (John 3:3), to be “saved” (John 10:9), to drink “Living Water” (John 4:10), to enter “the Door” (John 10:9), and to abide in “the Vine” (John 15:5). Perhaps Jesus used a variety of descriptions because he meets people at their point of need and he communicates in ways they can best understand.
  
• There are many cultural expressions that may describe one’s initial Christian commitment. Across the ages, a variety of idioms have been used to describe how one becomes a follower of Jesus. More recently these include “accepting Jesus,” “asking Jesus into your heart,” “being converted,” “making a profession of faith,” or “giving your life to Jesus.” In more liturgical traditions, a candidate for baptism may go through catechism or confirmation to announce their faith commitment. These descriptors may be helpful to us in articulating our commitment, but they should never be used legalistically or superimposed on others who do not understand their frame of reference.
  
• Gospel is the word we use to describe the Good News Jesus came to deliver. We must remember that the Gospel is good news. Jesus came to offer forgiveness of sin (Mark 11:25) and to offer us “abundant life” here and now, as stated in John 10:10. While the assurance of heaven after this life is comforting, it is notable that Jesus did not use the promise of heaven to compel others to follow him. Jesus met individuals at their point of need and offered the gift of a full and meaning-filled life. As we invite others to the Christian life, it is important to keep the good news good. It is also important that we invite others not just to believe in the existence of Jesus, but that we invite them to follow Jesus, to learn from Jesus, and to serve Jesus by serving others, especially the “least of the these,” which was Jesus’ reference to the underserved individuals in the community.
  
• Jesus assured his followers they would have a home in heaven after this life is over. Jesus told his disciples he was going away to prepare a place for them (John 14:1-6). He even told the thief on the cross, “This day you will be with me in paradise.” Interestingly, Jesus did not use heaven as a lure to entice others to follow him. Jesus invited others to follow him because of the life he offers here and now. In describing the Christian experience to others, we too should focus on the life Jesus gives us in the present, which prepares us for the life hereafter.
  
• There are many good ways to describe Christianity to others. A non-Christian is not likely to understand a lot of our coded church language about Christianity. Like Jesus, it is important to talk with others in ways they can understand. When talking to a non-Christian, an inquirer, or a skeptic, I begin with a simple explanation: “To become a Christian is to commit your life to following Jesus.” Then I add, “And we may best learn to follow Jesus by studying his teachings, imitating his lifestyle, and surrounding ourselves with others (small group/church) who have made a similar commitment.”

The common denominator for the variety of descriptions and definitions is that a Christian is committed to following Jesus. In examining the gospel narrative, we find that those who came to follow Jesus, even his first disciples, had unique stories of how they were drawn into a relationship with Jesus. This is still true today. Those from around the globe who embrace Christianity may have differing testimonies but they share a common faith.

The chorus that many of us sang on youth retreats and at church camps during our growing-up years is still valid and relevant in describing the essence of the Christian journey: “I have decided to follow Jesus. I have decided to follow Jesus. I have decided to follow Jesus. No turning back. No turning back.” This timeless refrain still holds true and encapsulates the essence of our Christian journey. We decide to follow Jesus, to be like Christ, and to freely share with others the love and grace we’ve received.

If you are thinking about becoming a follower of Jesus, please contact me or a minister in your community who can provide guidance and encouragement.

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor at the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches. He and his wife, Amanda, currently reside in Brookhaven, Georgia.)

Over the past few days, we have been heartbroken and outraged by the terrorist attacks in Israel by Hamas. Throughout the week, reports have revealed that the attacks were even more brutal and inhumane than we can imagine.

No matter what our political views are regarding the Middle East, we all agree that such attacks on innocent families, the elderly, young adults, children, and babies are horrific and barbaric, and must not be tolerated by the world community.

Many of us have friends in the region. Some of us even have relatives in the area. Whatever happens in the Middle East eventually affects the entire world.

Over the years, I have become friends with many Palestinian Christians, and I have developed a growing appreciation for their plight and their heritage. Several years ago, I became friends with the directors of the Baptist Village in Jerusalem and many other missionaries and students who have served there. Additionally, as I have served in a variety of communities as a pastor, I have become friends with many rabbis who helped me better understand Jewish perspectives and traditions. This week I have reached out to my rabbinical colleagues to assure them of our prayers.

Furthermore, as we process the events of the past week, there is the potential for a severe and significant escalation of hostilities.

As people of faith, how should we respond to this crisis? I want to suggest a few things we can do as we process our shock, anger, and grief:

• Pray for the people of Israel and Gaza.
  
  
• Support humanitarian efforts. Consider givingto one of the many groups that are providing aid to those affected by this tragedy. Baptist World Alliance, World Vision, and World Relief are just a few examples of such agencies.
  
  
• Read and study the biblical and historical accounts of the conflicts in this region of the world, and how this region plays into the history of many of the world’s major religions, including the history of Christianity.
  
  
• Engage in age-specific discussions with your children and respond to their questions to the best of your ability.
  
  
• Stay informed. This crisis will not be resolved overnight. It’s essential to stay informed and engaged over the long term. Reading and watching the news during times of war and conflict can be disturbing, but it is important to stay informed about current events without being consumed by them.

The Baptist World Alliance has issued a call to prayer for the people of Israel and the Palestinian Territories. The BWA offered the following prayer points to guide our prayers:

• Pray for a quick end to the conflict and the prevention of escalation into a larger war in the region.

• Pray for the God of all comfort to be with those who are grieving the loss of their loved ones.

• Pray for those who have been wounded during the conflict and for those providing medical assistance to them.

• Pray for the safety and liberation of hostages, and pray for mediators to facilitate their release.

• Pray for wisdom and discernment for the leaders, that they may make decisions that lead to lasting peace and alleviate suffering.

• Pray that Christians from around the world will unite in prayer for peace, demonstrating the love of Christ to all peoples.

• Pray for safety of local followers of Jesus and that they will be shielded from extremism and hatred, especially young people.

• Pray for God to utilize our churches as effective witnesses during this challenging time, through the power of the Holy Spirit, including the Baptist church in Gaza and its ongoing ministry.

• Pray that Christians around the world will give generously as our Baptist family across this area seeks to holistically minister in this critical time of suffering.

• Pray for peace, hope, and security for the entire region, and that the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays so that Israelis and Palestinians will experience life lived in peace and freedom with one another.

We understand that the complexities of this situation defy easy solutions, yet our faith calls us to be ambassadors of peace and justice. Let us continue to pray, learn, advocate, and work for a world where conflicts are resolved through dialogue, mediation, and, above all, the transformative power of God’s love.

Psalm 121:1 declares, “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”

In the realm of spiritual leadership, pastors shoulder a weighty responsibility of guiding, supporting, and nurturing their congregations. The demands of the role can be both deeply rewarding and incredibly demanding, often leading to isolation and burnout. During this journey, one invaluable resource that can serve as a lifeline is a pastor peer group.

I spent three days this week with my pastor peer group in the North Carolina mountains near Lake Junaluska. Over the last 45 years, I have been a part of four pastor peer groups. These groups, comprised of fellow pastors who gather regularly for mutual support and growth, offer a wealth of benefits that can significantly enrich a pastor’s personal and professional life.

Also, peer groups are helpful to all pastors, not just senior pastors.  Youth pastors, children’s pastors, discipleship pastors, and worship pastors, just to name a few examples, can all find value by participating in a minister’s peer group.

Here are 10 ways that being in a pastor peer group can enrich the life and ministry of a pastor:

1. Spiritual vitality and rejuvenation. Serving as a spiritual guide can sometimes feel draining, leaving pastors in need of their own spiritual renewal. Peer groups create a sacred space where pastors can receive spiritual nourishment, engage in meaningful discussions, and reconnect with their own faith.

2. Pastoral empathy and collegiality. Only those who have traveled the pastoral path truly understand its complexities. Within a pastor peer group, individuals can freely express their struggles, doubts, and joys without fear of judgment. The empathetic ears of peers who have faced similar challenges provide validation and comfort, reminding pastors that they are not alone on their journey.

3. Mutual encouragement. The role of a pastor often involves offering encouragement to others, but even spiritual leaders need encouragement themselves. Peer groups offer a space where pastors can receive uplifting words, prayer, and reminders of their own worth and impact. This mutual encouragement can reignite passion and purpose in times of fatigue.

4. Safe space for vulnerability. Vulnerability is a powerful tool for growth and healing. In a pastor peer group, individuals can share their vulnerabilities openly, leading to personal growth, self-discovery, and the breaking down of emotional barriers. This safe space fosters authenticity and builds trust among members.

5. Diverse pastoral and theological perspectives. Pastor peer groups encompass a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and theological viewpoints. Engaging with diverse perspectives challenges pastors’ thinking, stimulates creativity, and broadens their understanding of the complexities within the faith community.

6. Personal and professional accountability. Just as pastors guide their congregants, peer groups can guide pastors toward personal and professional growth. Members can set goals, share progress, and hold each other accountable for commitments. This supportive structure promotes continuous development and learning.

7. Sharing best practices. Pastors often face unique challenges that require thoughtful problem-solving. A peer group serves as a think tank, providing a wealth of collective wisdom and innovative ideas for overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities.

8. Prevention of burnout.  Burnout is a real risk in pastoral ministry due to its demanding nature. A peer group helps pastors recognize signs of burnout in themselves and their peers, providing the necessary support and resources to prevent its onset.

9. Problem-solving and brainstorming: Stepping out of the regular pastoral routine to form a think tank with colleagues can provide objective ideas, insights, and potential solutions to pastoral dilemmas. Hearing from others how they have addressed similar issues can stimulate healthy scenarios for addressing the predicaments you are encountering in your context.  

10. Enduring friendships. The connections formed in a pastor peer group often transcend professional boundaries, leading to deep and lasting friendships. These bonds provide a sense of community and camaraderie that can extend beyond the group’s formal meetings.

Most of those who serve as pastors have a genuine desire to serve, nurture, and guide their congregation. However, this challenging mission must be balanced with self-care, growth, and support.

A pastor peer group provides a micro-community where spiritual leaders can find inspiration, encouragement, and personal enrichment. As pastors come together, sharing their experiences and wisdom, they build a network of support that sharpens their pastoral skills and ultimately enriches the church community they serve.

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor at the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches. He and his wife, Amanda, currently live in Brookhaven, Georgia.)

In shadows deep, where doubts take hold,
A crisis of faith, a story unfolds,
A tempest brews within the soul,
A journey through uncertainty exacts a toll.

Questions arise like thunder roars,
Shaking foundations thought secure before,
The path once clear, now shrouded in mist,
A searching heart, a clenched fist.

Yet in this storm, opportunity knocks,
To seek the truth within paradox,
A cocoon of doubt where wings unfurl,
Emerging stronger, transforming our world.

With courage as your guiding star,
You face the doubts that lurk afar,
Exploring beliefs, both old and new,
Finding a path that speaks to you.

Through deep reflection, prayers, and tears,
You navigate the inner fears,
A journey inward, a quest for light,
To mend the fractures, reunite.

So let the crisis shape your view,
A catalyst for growth anew,
For in the struggle you will find,
A deeper faith, more richly defined.

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor at the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a columnist and leadership coach with the Center for Healthy Churches. He and his wife Amanda currently live in Brookhaven, Georgia.)

As the sun rises, a gift therein,
A canvas blank, a new day begins.
With every heartbeat, a chance anew,
To paint your dreams in vibrant hue.

Let worries fade like stars at morn,
Embrace the day, where hope is born.
For time’s swift river will not delay,
Rise up and make the most of today.

In simple joys, let your heart sing,
Chase passions wild, let laughter ring.
The seconds dance, swift as a stream,
Live out your purpose, let your spirit beam.

Illuminate the darkness with kindness and grace,
Greet those who are hurting with a friendly embrace.
It is in giving, we find our way,
Rise up and make the most of today.

When shadows fall, and night draws near,
Reflect on memories, hold them dear.
Treasure the moments, take them in,
The symphony of hours is your friend.

With open arms, embrace the day,
Seize opportunities, don’t delay.
In this present moment, find a way,
Rise up and make the most of today.

A recent discussion with young professionals in our community turned to artificial intelligence and I was asked, “What do you think of AI and how are you using it in your work as a pastor?” I had not given much thought to how pastors can benefit from the resources of AI, so I decided to explore that question more intentionally.

Global leader in AI, Andrew Ng, insists, “It is difficult to think of a major industry that AI will not transform. This includes healthcare, education, transportation, retail, communications, and agriculture. There are surprisingly clear paths for AI to make a significant difference in all of these industries.”

AI is becoming an integral part of today’s world, transforming various industries and revolutionizing the way we live and work. While AI is often associated with technological advancements in business and healthcare, AI has also started to make its mark in religious communities, offering new possibilities and opportunities for pastors to enhance their ministry. Primarily, I am interested in exploring the ways in which AI can assist pastors and contribute to their vital role in guiding and supporting their congregations.

Here are 7 ways AI pastors may utilize AI to enrich their ministry:

• Sermon Preparation: Crafting inspiring and relevant sermons that resonate with the congregation’s needs and interests is one of the most crucial aspects of pastoral ministry. AI-powered tools can aid pastors in researching and organizing relevant content, scriptures, and historical context. With the assistance of AI pastors can access vast databases, theological texts, and commentaries to enhance their biblical knowledge and ensure reliable interpretations. AI can even help in generating sermon outlines based on chosen themes or biblical passages, providing valuable insights and fresh perspectives. AI shouldn’t prepare the sermon for you, but it can be a valuable tool when used appropriately.
  
  
• Writing and Editing: In addition to sermon preparation, most pastors write newsletter articles, blog columns, devotionals, reference letters, emails, and social media posts. AI can assist in generating ideas, doing research on specific topics, providing templates for correspondence, finding relevant illustrations, and proofreading your work. When using AI to generate ideas and assist with proofreading, no citation or attribution is necessary. However, when using AI to generate the bulk of your content, a citation is appropriate. The MLA Handbook now includes a way to cite an AI-generated source. When using AI to contribute to content in one of my columns, I include an endnote that says, “This article has been written with the assistance of AI.”
  
  
• Pastoral Care and Counseling: AI has the potential to significantly enhance the provision of pastoral care and support services. Virtual assistants, driven by AI algorithms, can quickly locate and generate resources to assist the pastor in ministering to those seeking spiritual guidance or counseling. Such resources may include scriptural references, prayers, counseling services, healthcare referrals, and grief support. These resources can be made accessible even when the minister is not available.

• Community Engagement and Outreach: AI can play a crucial role in connecting pastors with their congregations and facilitating community engagement. Social media monitoring tools can help pastors understand the concerns, interests, and questions of their community members, enabling them to tailor their messages and programs to address these needs effectively.
  
  
• Data Analytics for Decision-Making: AI’s ability to process and analyze vast amounts of data can assist pastors in making informed decisions and strategic planning. By examining demographic information, attendance records, and engagement metrics, pastors can gain insights into the needs and preferences of their congregation. This data-driven approach allows pastors to adapt their ministry, identify areas that require attention, and implement strategies that align with their community’s evolving dynamics.

• Language Translation and Interpretation: In an increasingly multicultural world, pastors often face the challenge of delivering messages to congregants with different language backgrounds. AI-powered language translation tools can assist pastors in presenting their sermons, written or oral, in multiple languages. These translation tools can also help pastors communicate effectively with non-English-speaking individuals during counseling sessions or hospital visits, ensuring that no one is deprived of pastoral care due to language limitations. For example, I am currently providing a printed translation of my sermons each week for a family our church is hosting from Ukraine.

• Administrative assistance: Employing AI to accomplish routine administrative tasks can free up a pastor’s time to focus on more meaningful interactions and activities within their communities. In some churches, whether due to budget cuts or personnel realignment, administrative support has shifted from administrative staff members to the minister. Having a virtual assistant can enable a pastor to minimize administrative tasks and major on ministry initiatives.

As with any technology, including the internet, smart devices, and social media, AI has positive and negative potential, according to how the resource is used. AI offers the capacity to increase the effectiveness of pastors as spiritual leaders and caregivers. By harnessing the power of AI, pastors can enhance their sermon preparation, improve their writing skills, provide personalized pastoral care, engage with their communities effectively, make data-driven decisions, and overcome language barriers. It is essential for pastors and religious leaders to embrace technology responsibly and integrate AI tools thoughtfully into their ministries, ensuring that the human connection, spiritual insight, and relational empathy remain at the core of their pastoral work.

Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, cautions, “What all of us have to do is to make sure we are using AI in a way that is for the benefit of humanity, not to the detriment of humanity.”

As pastors, what we want to do is to make sure we are using AI for the enrichment of the church and for advancement of God’s mission in the world.

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor of the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership consultant and columnist for the Center for Healthy Churches. He and his wife, Amanda, currently reside in Brookhaven, Georgia.)

* This column first appeared in Nurturing Faith Journal.

Grief is an inevitable part of the human experience, an emotional upheaval that comes hand in hand with loss. Whether it be the passing of a loved one, the end of a cherished relationship, or even the loss of a job or a dream, grief manifests in various forms throughout our lives. Orson Scott Card contends, “Life is full of grief, to exactly the degree we allow ourselves to love other people.”

Despite being a universal emotion, it is often one of the most difficult to discuss openly. In a society that tends to avoid uncomfortable topics, having honest conversations about grief becomes essential in fostering healing and understanding for those who are navigating through the depths of sorrow.

Grief is a multifaceted and complex emotion. It can be unpredictable, chaotic, and different for each individual. Therefore, the grieving process varies based on personality and circumstance. Some may experience intense emotions immediately, while others may take longer to process their feelings. There is no timetable for healing, and individuals should feel free to grieve at their own pace without judgment or pressure.

Call on the resources of your faith and faith community. Although faith does not exempt us from grief, faith does equip us to grieve in healthy ways. Grief is tremendously tough for those who are grounded in their faith. Grief can be devastating to those with no faith foundation and no community of support.

Acknowledge your grief. Do not keep it bottled up deep inside. Society has ingrained the idea that grieving should be done privately, behind closed doors, making it challenging for those experiencing grief to share their pain with others. This lack of open dialogue can lead to isolation, feelings of loneliness, and a reluctance to seek support. It is crucial to encourage open conversations about grief and break the silence surrounding it. Richard Rohr advises, “As any good therapist will tell you, you cannot heal what you do not acknowledge, and what you do not consciously acknowledge will remain in control of you from within, festering and destroying you and those around you.”

Empathy and respect are essential. To engage in honest conversations about grief, empathy is the key. Understanding and acknowledging the pain of others without judgment allows for a deeper connection and a more supportive environment. Grief can be overwhelming, and simply having someone listen and validate one’s feelings can make a significant difference in the healing process.

Empathy also involves avoiding clichés and platitudes, as they can unintentionally invalidate the grieving person’s experience. Phrases like “time heals all wounds” or “they are in a better place” may be well-intentioned, but they can be dismissive of the individual’s pain. Instead, offering a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, and a simple “I’m here for you” can provide immeasurable comfort.

Provide grace and space for others to grieve. This is one of the greatest gifts you can give to a grieving friend or family member. Honest conversations about grief create safe spaces for people to express their feelings without fear of judgment or criticism. It encourages active listening and genuine engagement, enabling the bereaved to share their stories openly. Such safe spaces can be formal, like support groups or counseling sessions, or informal, among close friends and family.

Help destigmatize grief. The societal expectation to “stay strong” and “move on” often leads to the stigmatization of grief. Honest conversations about grief help break down these barriers and create a supportive environment for those who are suffering. When people feel comfortable sharing their experiences, they find solace in knowing they are not alone, reducing the burden of their grief.

Encourage professional help when needed. While conversations with friends and family are essential, some individuals may require professional help to process their grief fully. Honest discussions about grief can also include gentle encouragement for seeking counseling or therapy. Trained professionals can offer specialized support and tools to navigate the challenging terrain of grief,

Offer support, not advice or explanation. Supporting someone going through grief is not about trying to fix their pain; rather, it is about being a compassionate presence. Here are some ways to be supportive:

1. Be present: Offer your presence and companionship without judgment. Sometimes, a silent presence can be more comforting than words.
2. Listen actively: Give the bereaved person space to talk about their feelings, memories, and experiences. Listen attentively and avoid interrupting or imposing your own opinions.
3. Validate their emotions: Let them know that their feelings are valid and that it is okay to grieve.
4. Offer practical help: Assist with daily tasks, such as preparing meals or running errands, as grief can be emotionally and physically exhausting.
5. Avoid imposing timelines: Not all friends and family members grieve at the same pace. Recognize that grief is a personal journey and allow the individual to process their emotions at their own pace.

Honest conversations about grief are essential for promoting healing and understanding among those experiencing loss. Breaking the silence and providing a safe space for individuals to share their pain can help dispel the stigma around grieving and foster a supportive community. Empathy and active listening play a crucial role in supporting the bereaved during their journey through grief. By embracing the reality of grief and offering a compassionate presence, we can help those who are grieving feel seen, heard, and supported as they navigate the complexities of loss.

Sarah Bessen suggests, “Grief can be a burden, but also an anchor. You get used to the weight, how it holds you in place.” That is the goal of healthy grief, to gradually lead us from the emotional tumult toward a place of stability.

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor at the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches. He and his wife, Amanda, currently live in Brookhaven, Georgia.)