Search Results for:
clergy+care
The pastors’ pastors
Clergy care coordinators reach out to pastors and their families with prayers and calls and facilitate pastors’ access to resources like counseling or educational funding.
The most significant relationship
Research shows that the most significant relationship for pastors’ well-being is with their congregations.
National Study of Wesleyan Clergy and Spouses
As we all know by now, studies show that being a pastor (of any sort) is one of the most gratifying, fulfilling vocations around AND AT THE SAME TIME one of the most challenging and stressful. What we don’t know is just how pastors in The Wesleyan Church fit into that...
80+ Attend Inaugural Clergy Care Conference at IWU
Education and Clergy Development in the new quadrennium was to start a conference for clergy care givers—the counselors and others who offer front line assistance to pastors dealing with personal issues. The published focus of the conference is to “investigate best...
ECD Clergy Care Partners
ECD Home Ordination & Credentialing Thriving Clergy Wesleyan Education Our Team ECD is committed to partnering with high quality organizations in order to develop the most healthy, fit and effective pastors possible. We are committed to the health and well-being...
Flourishing Conference Explores Clergy Well-Being
“This conference offers a unique and much-needed platform for public sharing of important, cutting-edge research and best practices so we can help clergy and their families to flourish for a lifetime of ministry,” said Rev. Russ Gunsalus.
“Flourishing in Pastoral Ministry” Conference a success
The Flourishing in Pastoral Ministry Conference, held on October 11, 2013, in Marion, Ind., explored “best theories and practices for fostering clergy wellness.”
Shocking News about Wesleyan Pastor Washout: Wesleyan Clergy Retention Study
Please forgive me for the sensational title but the news about Wesleyan pastoral retention is indeed shocking. If I asked you, “How many pastors washout of ministry in their first five years?”, what would you say, 30…40…50…even 60...
Rugh transitions to full-time role with ECD
Rugh has already made a significant impact in her role as director of Spanish Ministry Education and Clergy Care.
You are not alone
Newly ordained pastors of The Wesleyan Church were celebrated, encouraged and resourced at the event specifically crafted for them.
Thrive Financial Spotlight: Florida District
This role is important, because—according to Styers—the problem with executing clergy care is not a lack of concern, but a lack of time on the part of district leaders. “We try our very best to not let people fall through the cracks…
Thriving Clergy: Pastorwell
“Sometimes pastors don’t avail themselves of things until there is a crisis; we’re trying to encourage pastors to be thinking ahead about what kinds of habits of mind and heart they can begin to make part of their life before there’s a crisis,”
Need more evidence pastoring is not a doomsday profession? Look at The Wesleyan Church
In a blog post for Christianity Today, Ed Stetzer examines the retention rate from 2005-2008 for clergy within The Wesleyan Church.
Good Stewards of God’s Creation
Have you ever had the Holy Spirit confirm a calling? If so, you know these moments tend to be catalytic for your life trajectory. Brian Webb—the current Sustainability Director at Houghton College—recalls a moment when he was called to lead other believers in the...
Healthy, Fit, Effective: New Pastors Orientation 2015
On November 18-19, 2015, Education and Clergy Development hosted its annual New Pastor Orientation at Wesleyan Headquarters in Fishers, IN. The conference reached out to pastors newly ordained or serving in their first appointment in The Wesleyan Church. This year, 23...
Thrive in Five – Spiritual – Bodily Spirituality: Five Reasons to Care
Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. Apostle Paul, 1 Cor. 6:19-20 Bodily Spirituality: Five Reasons to...
Retreat guide provides tips to Reclaim Sabbath
The guide serves as a method to assist pastors and clergy leaders in taking steps to truly reclaim the Sabbath.
Pacific Southwest Women Clergy Gathering strengthens ministers
The Pacific Southwest District event for women in ministry is designed to encourage and support the pastors through sharing experiences and deepening relationships.
Being present in the “stuff” of people’s lives
Even in moments when words aren’t enough, chaplains share the importance of the ministry of presence in “those holy moments when sometimes we don’t have answers but are able to sit with those in need.”
More Than Head Knowledge: 3 Things Every Wesleyan Should Know about Higher Education
It’s that time of year to take accounts, assess progress and cast vision for the future. At ECD we asked, “What is the state of Wesleyan Higher Education?” ECD Executive Director Russ Gunsalus shared with us three things every Wesleyan should know...
Soul care retreats address pastors’ spiritual lives
Education & Clergy Development and Wesleyan Publishing House partnered to host Made New Retreats in three cities. The soul care retreats were for pastors and focused on their spiritual lives.
Shocking News about Wesleyan Pastor Washout: Wesleyan Clergy Retention Study
Please forgive me for the sensational title but the news about Wesleyan pastoral retention is indeed shocking. If I asked you, “How many pastors washout of ministry in their first five years?”, what would you say, 30…40…50…even 60...
Serving the shepherd
ECD continues the pursuit of the mission in 2022 through equipping and caring for the shepherds.
10 ways to keep the pastor you love
“Being a pastor was SO much easier than what I’m doing now,” said NO former pastor ever. Note: October is Pastor Appreciation Month. Here are ten tips on how to keep your beloved pastor from leaving.
Inaugural Breakaway retreat for pastors’ spouses a success
The inaugural Breakaway retreat for pastors’ spouses was deemed a success, both by leaders and attendees. Because of the positive feedback, future retreats will likely be held in the future.
The Gathering: one year out
With The Gathering one year out, start planning your trip now to Orlando, Florida, to this encouraging and inspiring event.
Thrive Financial Spotlight: Jason Parker
Now, nearing the end of the TFI process, the Parker family have worked toward the Thrive team’s collective goals, paying down all $20,000 in debt, and are completely debt-free as they now work on the next step (building their savings fund).
“Thanks for listening”
Celebrating Pastor Appreciation Month and the ministry of listening this October.
New pastors and seminarians introduced to The Wesleyan Church
New Pastors Orientation and Seminary Days celebrated 65 newly ordained or first appointment pastors at an annual event.
Thrive Financial Spotlight: Luella Belliveau
“We’re a church who believes in fully supporting our pastor, so when I realized the benefit he could achieve through Thrive, I was on board in helping him achieve that in his own personal life,” reflected Belliveau.
Perfect Time for Hispanic Leadership Development
Our greatest challenge as a society is the lack of leaders; the lack of people being ready and desiring to help others. How do we find new leaders? Leaders are not found: they are encountered, equipped, and empowered.
Empowered to lead
Wesleyan Holiness Women Clergy Conference focuses on supportive pathways for women called by God to lead the church.
Wesleyan pastors participate in webinar on Affordable Care Act
The Wesleyan Church is being proactive in informing churches and clergy on how the Affordable Care Act (ACA) affects them.
Called to family Sabbath
“God began to teach us more of what Sabbath looks like, especially inside a pastor’s home.”
Reflections on reclaiming the Sabbath
Sabbath slows us down so that we can listen to our soul. It is then that we can bring our own heart before the Lord in prayerful reflection.
Sharing Inspiration
If there’s one overarching aim Crisp has developed in 19 years as a pastor’s spouse, it’s authenticity – for her family life and her own spiritual development.
Simplifying Church
“The church of the future is going to have to simplify. We’re not going to be able to rely on giving as much to support a staff of 15 pastors. We’re going to have to know what we are about – preaching and teaching the word of God, inviting everyone..
Neighborhood Faith: Urban Ministry in Portland
“In the church planting world, a lot of the language we use is colonialist. We say, ‘We have God and we will bring him to these people.’ But one of my discoveries has been that God was always in Portland and at work in Portland,” Doiron said.
Houghton College Alumni Spotlight: Taylor Wilding
“Everything you do or don’t do; everything you say or don’t say sends a message–so make sure all you do or say reorients people toward Christ and not toward the world.”
Sermon Starters
Jesus was a famously good storyteller. On hillsides and shorelines, Jesus held audiences spellbound with his way of sharing in images and narratives that expressed core human needs.
A Culture of Cooperation: Ways Your Church Can Engage in Pastor Appreciation Month
Pastor Appreciation Month is a time to honor and celebrate the sacrifices, commitments, and hard work that pastors have made in serving their congregations and communities.
Thriving Clergy
ECD Home Clergy Care Thrive Financial Women in Ministry Thriving ClergyVision We want ministry to be a joy, not a drag! Ministry has the potential to drain a person physically, emotionally, and spiritually, leaving pastors running on empty and in danger of...
Chaplain Spotlight: Judy Adams
Adams reminds people outside the world of prison to avoid allowing fear to prevent them from ministering alongside people in prison.
Finding the middle way
“It was a rich experience for me to understand that God is bigger than any one denominational box… All of the different perspectives find alignment and agreement in God,” Jones reflected.
Houghton College Alumni Spotlight: John Rhett
“This is one of the greatest challenges for a teacher at a Christian college – for a teacher that is a believer – how to educate, expose and equip young minds to make their way through a visual culture…”
Clergy, the church and mobilizing during COVID-19
As our communities scramble to respond to the novel coronavirus, churches have an opportunity to lead the way in faithful, compassionate service to the sick, needy and those at-risk. This really is a make-or-break time for churches to be load-bearing institutions in...
Pastors’ Spotlight- Jorge Escalante
The hyphen: integrating the immigrant into ministry
Thrive In 5-Vacations and Your Health
…now is a good time to be intentional and plan for strategic days off leading up to the holidays and then for an extended time away from ministry-work sometime in the new year.
Trusted Worldwide
Chaplain Amber Kunkel becomes first female chaplain in Hurlburt’s 79-year history.
He Sapa New Life Ministry
He Sapa New Life has established a large community-based youth outreach program this past year to reach these youth by providing alternative positive activities and mentoring
Thrive Financial Spotlight: Frankie Rodriguez
For Pastor Frankie Rodriguez–senior Pastor of Iglesia Wesleyana El Camino in Greenville, South Carolina, the Thrive Financial Initiative (TFI) offered a chance for vulnerability that enriched his relationship to his congregation.
Education and Clergy Development 2021 update
ECD reports spiritual, emotional, relational and financial renewal amid rapid and unrelenting change.
What’s your story?
Women clergy gather at WHWC conference to encourage, deepen their calling.
Women in Ministry
ECD Home Clergy Care Thrive Financial Women in Ministry Women in MinistryVision The Wesleyan Church affirms its long-standing commitment to full opportunity for women to be ordained to the ministry and to serve in any and all ministerial and leadership...
Residency Spotlight: Christine Kaye
“I’m still in training, but I get real-life experience. Messy people walking alongside messy people: you can’t get that in a classroom. Until you’re in it, you have no idea.” –Christine Kaye Residency exists to train pastors for lifelong...
Chaplaincy Spotlight: Jim Miller’s Ministry of Presence
Having recently returned from deployment, Military Chaplain Jim Miller describes his ministry in three themes: nurturing the living, caring for the wounded, and honoring the dead. Chaplain Miller describes his ministry in three themes: nurturing the living, caring for...
Important update: employer health insurance premium reimbursement/payment plans
On February 18, 2015, the IRS issued Notice 2015-17 providing transitional relief from ACA penalties and resetting the taxability of premiums to pre-2014 practices until June 30, 2015.
Chaplain Spotlight: Bryan Purvis — The Ministry of Presence
From ministering as Chaplain to Navy’s football team to serving the Midshipmen, Sailors & Marines at the Naval Academy, active-duty Navy Chaplain Bryan Purvis is a man of honor, service & sacrifice.
Chaplain Spotlight: Bryan Purvis — The Ministry of Presence
Chaplain Purvis recently was promoted to Lieutenant Commander – a professional success he attributes to the men he serves. “Promotions have little to do with me and everything to do with those I serve with; they, the enlisted and other officers, make...
Thrive in 5: Spiritual – Protecting the Spiritual Life of the Pastor
Sustaining Pastoral Excellence The most fundamental level of self-care is the pastor’s personal relationship with God in Christ through the Spirit. Everything in the pastor’s life flows from and is dependent upon the spiritual condition of the heart:...
God is Bigger Than This
Friends, if you’re in a season of hurting- let me join you in praying that you’ll let Him lead you through. That you’ll choose to fight, and that you’ll keep your eyes on Him. He’s shaping you along the way.
Rev. Mike Cline on Pastor Appreciation
“More than any one time gift or note, the most encouraging thing to do for your pastor is to just show up on a regular basis and help create an overall healthy culture in your church,” says Rev. Mike Cline, senior pastor at Mountain View Church.
Privileged to serve
ECD empowers individuals for kingdom service through strategic partnerships and development opportunities.
How the WMDL Institute Affects You: 4 Things You Need to Know
Great churches require great clergy; great clergy require excellent education.
STOP, REST, PRAY, PLAY, THRIVE
The goal of The Gathering was for each attendee to be “encouraged, inspired and engaged at a deeper level with each other, their spouse and with God.”
Wonderfully Made
Imagine an ultrasound picture of a precious baby. Or better yet, imagine holding that child in your hand while reading this Psalm (139): 13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and...
Thrive Financial Spotlight: Daniel Mottayaw
When asked what he’d say to those considering TFI, Daniel says, “The TFI money is pretty much dependable; but what I’ve really learned in this process beyond that is how God can provide in so many ways you can’t even count on or be sure of… so there
Thrive In 5: Physical – When Being Too Sweet Is Bad
The demand on clergy is taxing. Ministry often demands more than pastors feel they can give. Add in bi-vocational, family needs, and a pandemic, it is easy to understand why a pastor’s personal health suffers.
More than words, part 3
The Wesleyan Pension Fund supports the church’s mission by providing for the retirement of ministry clergy or laity employees.
Thriving Together-March 2024
Being a woman in ministry sometimes feels like using a pair of right-handed scissors when you are left-handed.
TFI – Thrive Financial Initiative
ECD Home TFI Home Why TFI? Learning Journeys FAQs What is TFI? The Thrive Financial Initiative (TFI) is a program designed to help pastors overcome economic challenges that affect ministry effectiveness. Working together, the pastor and key lay leaders in a local...
Gordon Ritchie: A Physician of the Soul
Gordon Ritchie recently retired from a fulfilling career as a United States Marine Corps Chaplain. After twenty-four years of service, Ritchie has had an influence on many young people in the US Navy
Gordon Ritchie: A Physician of the Soul
Gordon Ritchie recently retired from a fulfilling career as a United States Marine Corps Chaplain. After twenty-four years of service, Ritchie has had an influence on many young people in the United States Navy. His career–shaped by honor, hope, presence, and...
Wesleyans in the news
Lives are “made new” at a Kingswood youth event, a New York church takes a closer look at the opioid crisis, an insurance company provides wellness assistance for pastors and more.
Ministerial students encouraged at College Day 2017
Ministerial students from five Wesleyan colleges and universities learned more about the denomination at the annual College Day held at The Wesleyan Church Headquarters.
She said, he said: handing the mic to pastors’ spouses
While pastors’ spouses are as much in the spotlight as their partners, they’re less often handed a live microphone and an empty stage. We wanted to find out what pastor’s spouses – both pastors’ husbands and pastors’ wives – had to say about life in
The Gathering: Keith Carroll’s story
Rev. Keith Carroll tells why he makes it a priority to attend The Gathering.
The Gathering: Phil Lewis’ story
Phil Lewis encourages all pastors to attend The Gathering.
The Gathering: a turning point
Eleven years later, Steve Dunmire points to The Gathering as a turning point in his life, both personally and professionally.
Friendship
“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another: “What! You too? I thought I was the only one.” ~ C. S. Lewis I am an extrovert. I like being around people and I thrive on conversations. I’ve been accused of smiling too much and,...
Seasons of Change
Today is my fifteenth anniversary. And instead of cruising through a blue Caribbean sea, or driving through the sparkle of big city lights, we are spending it staying still. Living with my parents. Almost all of our worldly possessions are in a storage unit ten...
The Truth
In the midst of church planting Jordan talks about the Truth of who God is.
Experience God’s Best by Doing Less
We are in danger of not leading ourselves, our families, or our congregations well if we do not intentionally take the time to listen to God’s voice.
WE5 discipleship at a distance
Wesleyan colleges and universities respond to COVID-19, as leaders and students find ways to encourage and serve.
Thrive Financial Spotlight : Mark Leist
During the first year of TFI, Leist and his leadership team turned the TFI materials into a teaching series for their congregation.
Testimonio de IFE : Frankie Rodriguez
Para el pastor Frankie Rodríguez, pastor principal de la Iglesia Wesleyana La Camino en Greenville, Carolina del Sur, la Iniciativa hacia Finanzas Exitosas (IFE) ofreció una oportunidad de vulnerabilidad que enriqueció su relación con su congregación
Financial Resources for Financial Wellbeing
Here are five financial resources utilized by many clergy and other Christians.
Longevity in service
Embracing the benefits of sabbaticals for Wesleyan clergy and congregations.
Indiana
Pastor Retreat Locations Indiana Pastors Retreats – Indiana Camp Lutherhaven1596 S 150 W Albion, IN 46701260-636-7101 Mahseh Center1516 North Lake Shore Dr., Kewanna, IN 46939574-653-3277$ Shepherd’s Gate Inn565 E. William and Mary Dr., Martinsville, IN...
South Carolina
Pastor Retreat Locations South Carolina Pastors Retreats – South Carolina The Potter’s Place738 Clayton St., Central, SC 29630Contact Don and Shannon Schaupp$ Main INDEX AL GA ME ND OR VA France AK HI MD NE PA WA Hong Kong AZ IA MA NH RI WV India AR ID...
When the Path Bends Beyond Sight: Piang Khaw Lian shares how focused prayer set him on the road to pastoral ministry
Pathways to Ministry: Piang Khaw Lian shares how focused prayer set him on the road to pastoral ministry
When the Path Bends Beyond Sight: Piang Khaw Lian shares how focused prayer set him on the road to pastoral ministry
Piang Lian Sometimes the path into ministry winds around unexpected corners. For Piang Khaw Lian, the path hasn’t been straight. Born into one of the few Christian families in New Dehli, India, Piang never foresaw himself as an ordained Wesleyan pastor in the...
Doctrinal Symposium on ordination and ministerial credentialing
Key leaders in The Wesleyan Church examined the current ordination process in regards to effectively preparing leaders for ministry.
A Theological Framework on Women
Affirming and empowering women in leadership at all levels in churches.
Lilly Endowment awards a million-dollar grant for TWC pastors
The grant will help pastors overcome economic challenges that limit ministry effectiveness.
Doctrinal Symposium focuses on discipleship
This year’s topic for the event focused on discipleship: Kingdom Force: Disciples Making Disciples in the New Testament and Early Church.
Thrive In 5: Spiritual – Have You Experienced the Love of God?
The one thing that is everything is friendship with God in Christ..
Financial Resources for Financial Wellbeing
There are many available avenues for financial strategies for those desiring faith-based resources.
Are You Experiencing Compassion Fatigue?
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Gal. 6:9). Compassion fatigue is “weariness in doing good.”
South Coastal District poised for change
District Superintendent Tim Fox is passionate about helping healthy pastors create healthy churches
Nearly retired chaplain decides to keep serving
Chaplain follows the shepherd’s path in unusual times.
Called to Preach: Wesleyans Plan for PreacHer Sunday 2024
“Women in ministry isn’t a celebration of women as much as it is a celebration of what God can do through willing and obedient people,” Working said. “God doesn’t care about your gender as much as he cares about your heart.”
Layperson Appreciation Month
October was Pastor Appreciation Month. Jim Dunn poses the question: If there was a Layperson Appreciation Month, when would it be? Do we intentionally show appreciation to laypersons in our churches?
4 Reasons Why Pastors Should Love Numbers
I know pastors dislike statistical reports & come up with many reasons for why traditional statistics don’t really matter.
But pastors should love numbers. Here are 4 reasons why I love numbers
4 Reasons Why Pastors Should Love Numbers
May 31 brings to close another statistical year for many churches. Whether your fiscal/statistical year aligns with the calendar year or not, I know many pastors dislike statistical reports, and they come up with many reasons for why traditional statistics don’t...
Residency Spotlight: Tim Witte
“A lot of people have a hard time believing their pastor loves them; so I learned to knit so I could get closer to my congregation.”-Tim Witte (pictured below) If there’s a resident pastor who knows about loving a congregation, it’s Tim Witte....
Military chaplains at The Cove
Wesleyan military chaplains came together for debriefing, inspiration, and fellowship at the biannual retreat at the Cove.
Houghton Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Marlene Collins-Blair
“One of the hallmarks of Houghton College Online is that we have deliberately and intentionally created an environment that mirrors the residential campus.” Blair said.
Thrive in 5: Financial- Five Simple Financial Principles
Financial simple principles for financial health and responsibility.
Thrive In 5: Spiritual – With God in Suffering and Weakness
During this time of Covid-19, we feel it is vitally important for pastors to continue to learn to carve out a few moments each day to simply be with God in prayer.
Assessment program seeing increase in number of TWC multipliers
Lay and clergy alike can be assessed to determine individual roles in multiplication — no matter one’s vocation.
Wesleyans in the news: January 5
Do you know these Wesleyans in the news?
The Gathering 2023
A Wesleyan Thriving Clergy Conference for pastors and spouses – The Gathering
Appreciation without ceasing
General Superintendent Wayne Schmidt shares appreciation and thanks for pastors.
DBMD
Enroll en Español Enroll ECD Home Ordination & Credentialing Learn Pursue Finance DBMD Guide to exploring the Call How do I become a minister in The Wesleyan Church? The Guide to Exploring the Call will make the path to ministry more understandable. ...
Denominational officers transition
The Wesleyan Church (TWC) extends thank you at the 14th General Conference to two general officers who are transitioning to new ministry roles.
A pastor to pastors
“My advice to preachers is to read for the cultivation of the soul rather than the development of skill,” he said.
Stepping out from behind the curtain
Since stepping out from behind the curtain, Skor has found her voice as a leader and been able to focus on using her giftings for maximum benefit to the church.
Neighboring during COVID-19
As COVID-19 causes churches to cancel services, effective congregations in these weeks will be measured less by how many people we can gather, and more by how deeply we can send our people into our communities to (wisely, cautiously, hopefully) serve and bear the...
Partnership making “exponential” impact
The Wesleyan Church had over 500 lay and clergy multipliers in participation who worked together to freshly imagine ways to care for their communities.
Chaplain’s Corner- Chaplain Bill Wickham
The Wesleyan Distinctives series
A series elevating conversations about God and celebrating our shared values toward effective ministry in The Wesleyan Church.
Humility: A Foundational Pastoral Virtue
In today’s leadership culture, pastors are often coached about principles for helping them to be more efficient and effective in their ministry work.
Co-shepherding the church
A Chinese Mandarin church in Victoria, British Columbia, builds lay-clergy partnership as a touchstone for health.
Kingdom-style leadership
Three district leaders explain being called by God, not as women, but as servants.
Thrive Financial Spotlight: Asdrubal Chacon
Having been an active participant in the El Monte Wesleyan Christian Church (EMWCC) in El Monte, California for over twenty-six years, Rev. Asdrubal Chacon is familiar with the unique blessings of a life of service. “I started attending this church as a regular...
Mosaix Wesleyan Pre-Conference 2022
Join and participate in our table talks, free dinner, and hear from pastors & leaders within the TWC serving on this movement.
Funding
We recognize the importance of having a strong funding system. We believe God provides ever-expanding resources to support His work.
Learn
Enroll Enroll ECD Home Ordination & Credentialing Learn Pursue Finance DBMD Guide to exploring the Call We invite you to check out the resource ECD has provided called the “Guide to Exploring the Call. This resource has helpful information about the next...
Thrive In 5: Spiritual -Vibrant But Ordinary
Sometimes, the best jumpstart to a vibrant spiritual life is a return to ordinary life and tasks.
Dr. Wood to lead expanded Wesleyan Seminary Foundation
We are very excited to announce that Rev. Dr. Harry Wood will be the inaugural chairperson of the newly expanded Wesleyan Seminary Foundation. All of you know of his leadership as a General Superintendent and his long tenure as a beloved and effective district...
A Warm Welcome at New Pastor Orientation
This year’s Education and Clergy Development’s New Pastor Orientation welcomed 15 new pastors and their spouses to the Wesleyan community, with times of sharing, networking and advice. On October 11-12, new pastors, their spouses and seasoned Wesleyans met at...
Thrive In 5: Special Coronavirus Edition
Today, what I find most interesting is the peaceful image of Jesus in the back of the boat.
Five Questions to Ask for Decision-Making
Five Questions to Ask for Decision-Making We all make decisions daily and often don’t need to think too hard about the decisions we make, like what to make for dinner or what we will wear. There are times, however, when we can use some guidance for decisions of more...
At the table
A Wesleyan congregation in North Carolina goes all-in on making change (and meals).
We’re all interim
Ministry with the next pastor in mind.
Formation and collaboration
A closer look at the 2024 GSTS.
Hanging on to Hope: After grief and loss
Pastor Sandy Guffin’s greatest pain becomes a powerful avenue for sharing Christ’s hope.
Our Team
ECD Home Ordination & Credentialing Thriving Clergy Wesleyan Education Our Team Johanna Rugh Executive Director Johanna Rugh Executive Director Rev. Johanna Chacon Rugh is an ordained minister of The Wesleyan Church. She served as the Assistant District...
The Gathering sets a new mark
In the third event of this type to take place in The Wesleyan Church, The Gathering set a new mark not only in attendance, but in the expressed appreciation of the vast majority of participants.
Thrive in 5: Financial- Personal Finances
Few areas in our lives are as sensitive as personal finances. Finances are often a great source of stress for clergy. Yet no matter how much or how little we earn, we are responsible to be good stewards of what the Lord provides
Special U.S. flag presented to The Wesleyan Church
A special U.S. flag was recently presented to The Wesleyan Church during an August chapel service at headquarters. The flag has flown in Afghanistan over a U.S. airfield.
Thrive In 5: Emotional
How do you feel about the person you are with when you are all alone? This is when your capacity for self-loathing or self-liking reveals itself. The odds are good that you may experience either attitude about your “self” at one time or another. As a pastor,...
Chesapeake District hosts Zoom FLAMA classes
“FLAMA Zoom is a great opportunity for our ministerial students who have been waiting for a class to be taught near their area.”
Wesleyans in the news: August 1
Do you know these Wesleyans in the news?
Enjoy her more
In the absence of my sweet mother, today, I will let my words lift a tribute for what she represented in my life.
FLAMA expands to meet Hispanic ministerial needs
“The Wesleyan Church is committed to providing accessible, quality ministry education and formation in Spanish for all Hispanic persons called into pastoral ministry.”
Welcoming our immigrant neighbors
Immigrants are on the move, but God is on the move in the midst of them. And Wesleyans are on the move with God in this moment.
Canada church shows love in COVID season
Thousands of dollars have been received and dispersed across the Atlantic Canada region each year, and in 2020, the cumulative total topped $1,000,000 given away since Love Week began in 2014.
Table culture encourages intentional discipleship
The church is living out Acts 2:42: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
Thrive In 5-The Motivational (Emotional)
As a pastor, If you have discovered that your motivation has taken a vacation and left you behind, you are not alone.
The gifts and blessings of appreciation
“One of the greatest blessings has been being held in love by a congregation …”
Rev. Scott Conn shares what Pastor Appreciation has meant to him, his family and service in the church.
Saltwater, clean water, living water
Ryan Delamater and his team intersect culture, economics and technology with a nimble strategy of ministry.
Fuel 2022 recap
Over 200 next-generation leaders met on April 21-22 in Muncie, Indiana, for insight and a spiritual re-fueling.
Who Are You Becoming?
Look at your calendar and ask, “Where are God’s values expressed here?”
Seasons of a shepherd
In each season of life, Dr. Jeanne Argot helps others know God.
Making all things new
Wesleyans believe laity are called to be ministers, engaging in God’s transformative work in the world.
Thriving Together- October 2022
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Welcome! On behalf of the Education and Clergy Development Division we want to welcome each of you to our monthly newsletter. It is our prayer...
General Treasurer/CFO
The General Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer exists to serve Christ and the Church as it allocates and manages resources.
FUEL 2024
FUEL is a space for Next Gen Leaders to be refreshed, equipped, and connected. Enjoy rest, intensives, worship, teaching, coaching, and fun. Join solo or with your team.
152nd session of the General Board convenes
Final 2024 General Board meeting celebrated God’s movement and established TWC’s focus for the future.
Wesleyan Chaplains
ECD Home Clergy Care Thrive Financial Women in Ministry Many persons are finding ministry as a military or institutional chaplain to be very fulfilling. Chaplains are ministers who perform pastoral tasks in specialized settings. They must love people and be capable of...
Wesleyan Higher Education
Wesleyan Higher Education | Colleges & Universities
Chaplaincy Spotlight: Jim Miller’s Ministry of Presence
Having recently returned from deployment, Military Chaplain Jim Miller describes his ministry in three themes: nurturing the living, caring for the wounded, and honoring the dead. Chaplain Miller describes his ministry in three themes: nurturing the living, caring for...
Northwest District merger is complete
Two districts merge to form a unified Kingdom Force in the Northwest United States.
Breaking the mold
Mission Machining offers training in CNC and discipleship.
Thrive in 5 – Spiritual – Protecting the Spiritual Life of the Pastor
Sustaining Pastoral Excellence The most fundamental level of self-care is the pastor’s personal relationship with God in Christ through the Spirit. Everything in the pastor’s life flows from and is dependent upon the spiritual condition of the heart:...
Thrive in 5 – Financial – Personal Finances
Few areas in our lives are as sensitive as personal finances. Finances are often a great source of stress for clergy. Yet no matter how much or how little we earn, we are responsible to be good stewards of what the Lord provides. Stewardship includes taking healthy...
Thrive In 5: Spiritual – Protecting the Spiritual Life of the Pastor
Take 5 minutes to read and think about how God might be speaking to you right now.
Welcoming the stranger in Arizona
Members of The Good Shepherd congregation of Mesa, Arizona, are opening their arms and their doors to immigrants looking to start a new life in the United States.
Thrive In 5: Spiritual – Protecting the Spiritual Life of the Pastor
Take 5 minutes to read and think about how God might be speaking to you right now.
Thrive In 5: Relational- Good Conflict Management
Five Keys to Good Conflict Management
ECD examining new possibilities in credentialing
Competency-based ministry outcomes consider what content pastors must focus on to effectively shepherd in today’s culture, what character is needed to serve in local communities and what skills are crucial for effective ministry.
Reconciliation: my journey of multiethnic ministry
Journey with me as we learn together how to lead, encourage and engage in the areas of multiethnic ministry and racial reconciliation.
Immigrant Connection hosts Welcoming the Stranger cohorts
The new cohort is offered for persons wanting to learn more on what God says in the Bible about loving immigrants.
Houghton College’s sixth president installed October 1, 2021
First year goals focus on growth and relationship.
2021 district conference recap
A spirit of connection, strategy and celebration mark district conferences across the North American Conference of The Wesleyan Church.
Appreciating Pastors Post Pandemic
It’s been a season of challenge and change for pastors and leaders. Joining our discussion will be members from the Wesleyan Clergy Care Team along with District Superintendent Matt Pickering sharing their own discoveries.
Church Multiplication and Discipleship 2021 update
Celebration and guardrails have driven CMAD’s work to close the Gospel Gap in 2021.
Twelve in ’22
Reflections from the longest-serving General Conference delegate.
Room for more
Stroudsburg Wesleyan Church expands cold-weather shelter ministry.
How is your EQ?
You have heard of IQ. Have you also heard of EQ?
Forging wider paths
The Spanish Ministerial Education and Formation team seeks to equip Hispanic ministers to reach their diverse communities.
Missionaries at home
Pastors and churches cross district and national borders to multiply and see others Made New.
Host at the table, part 1
Wesleyan women are leading hosts at tables across The Wesleyan Church.
People of new life
This Easter, Wesleyans saw the multiplication of small acts of faithfulness.
Welcome without condition
Celebrate Church Mankato first wave of church planting is Immigrant Connection.
Collaboration over suspicion
Worship leader research partnership provides a model for how congregations and higher education can work together.
Fresh ways to love
IWU’s Imaginarium explores the connection between God and neighbor.
Leadership transitions
“Anticipation” summarizes the mood of TWC’s 22 district conferences.
Abide
Next-gen leaders gather in Indianapolis for FUEL 2024.
Keeping Ministry Sustainable
Wesleyan Loan-Grant Clears Financial Burdens for Pastors
General Conference elects Janelle Vernon to general office
The General Conference, by overwhelming vote, elected Janelle Vernon to the office of executive director of the Division of Communication and Administration.
Food ministry flourishes in West Virginia city
“When COVID-19 hit, our little food pantry had to grow very quickly to meet the needs of our community.”
Chacon retires as superintendent of Distrito Hispano Suroeste
His 47 years in ministry include planting 26 churches and “consolidating a united body of Hispanic ministers fully identified with ‘biblical holiness’ and The Wesleyan Church.”
What I have heard
May we all strive to honor one another in every exchange, for God’s glory and our collective good.
Do You Need that Antibiotic?
Do You Need that Antibiotic? Church is meant to be a place of community where the body of believers share their life journey and grow in their relationships with God and each other. These interactions whether one on one, small groups, or a Sunday service are essential...
The memorial process
General Conference legislation creates space for all to speak across The Wesleyan Church.
Living an incarnational, eloquent life
Rev. Dr. Todd Crofford reflects on the ways Wesleyan proclamation invites us to intentionally and thoughtfully live the gospel out loud.