Posts in Leader Resources
Church Planting Reimagined: Nick Warnes on Discernment, Adaptability, and Inclusive Leadership
Church Planting Reimagined: Nick Warnes on Discernment, Adaptability, and Inclusive Leadership

In this episode of the Pivot Podcast, we dive deep into the world of church planting with Nick Warnes, founder and executive director of Cyclical Incorporated. Nick shares his expertise on developing leaders for new Christian communities, challenging traditional notions of what it means to start a church. From discernment processes to financial sustainability, from adapting to diverse contexts to embracing a truly missional approach, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom for anyone interested in the future of the church.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardLuther Seminary, Pivot Podcast, faith+leadComment
The Future of Church Planting: Innovating for God’s Mission with Len Tang
The Future of Church Planting: Innovating for God’s Mission with Len Tang

In this episode of the Pivot Podcast, discover the future of church planting with expert Len Tang in this eye-opening episode of the Pivot Podcast.

Dive into the evolving world of church planting with expert Len Tang in this transformative episode of the Pivot Podcast. Len, director of the Fuller Church Planting Initiative, unpacks the latest trends and strategies that are reshaping how we approach ministry in the 21st century.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardLuther Seminary, Pivot Podcast, faith+leadComment
Political Theology Reimagined: Dr. Joel Lawrence on “Sabbath Politics” in a Polarized World
Political Theology Reimagined: Dr. Joel Lawrence on “Sabbath Politics” in a Polarized World

In this thought-provoking episode of the Pivot Podcast, Dr. Joel Lawrence, president of the Center for Pastor Theologians, offers a fresh perspective on political theology and how churches can navigate our politically polarized landscape. Introducing the concept of “Sabbath politics,” Dr. Lawrence challenges us to reimagine the church’s role in society, shifting from a posture of control to one of trust in God’s rule.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardLuther Seminary, Pivot Podcast, faith+leadComment
Faith Lens: Give a Little Bit
Faith Lens: Give a Little Bit

This week’s Faith Lens focuses on the power of small acts of faith, inspired by the widow’s humble gift in the Gospel. When challenges feel too big, remember that even small actions—like the widow’s penny—can make a profound difference. We’re called to take one step at a time, trusting that God is at work, even in the smallest of our efforts. Read on to discover how your everyday actions can build toward lasting change.

Read More
ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith Lens, Youth and Young AdultComment
Thriving Beyond Budgets: Join the Faith+Lead Webinar on New Church Funding Models
Thriving Beyond Budgets: Join the Faith+Lead Webinar on New Church Funding Models

Facing tighter budgets and attendance shifts? Join us for a free webinar, Funding Forward: Finding Hope and Sustainability Together, on November 12, 2024, 11am MST, 10am PST, with author Grace Pomroy. Discover faith-centered approaches to funding ministry that focus on hope and mission-driven sustainability. Grace will share real-life stories and practical steps that help churches reimagine finances through innovative models that build community. Register today to take part in this hopeful and transformative conversation.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardStewardship, faith+lead, Luther SeminaryComment
Reimagining Contemplative Practices for Modern Life: From Wall Street to Renewal with Westina Matthews
Reimagining Contemplative Practices for Modern Life: From Wall Street to Renewal with Westina Matthews

In this episode of the Pivot Podcast, discover the transformative power of contemplative practices with Westina Matthews, a former Wall Street executive turned spiritual director.

On September 11, 2001, Dr. Westina Matthews found herself running for her life down 34 flights of stairs in the World Financial Center, adjacent to the World Trade Center. This harrowing experience became a pivotal moment in her spiritual journey, leading her from the corporate world of Wall Street to a life dedicated to contemplative practices and spiritual direction.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardLuther Seminary, Pivot Podcast, faith+leadComment
Finding God’s Peace Amid Election Stress: Free Course on Faith and Mental Health
Finding God’s Peace Amid Election Stress: Free Course on Faith and Mental Health

Feeling the stress of election week? Reconnect with God’s peace through Faith+Lead’s free course, God and Mental Health Challenges, available now. This self-paced course offers a faith-based approach to mental health, practical tips on supporting others, and ways to integrate God’s presence amid life’s stresses. Read a letter introducing the course from Dr. Alicia Granholm, Faith+Lead Senior Director.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian Flatgardfaith+lead, Luther Seminary, Church and SocietyComment
Reformation Day Wisdom for the 21st Century Church
Reformation Day Wisdom for the 21st Century Church

This Reformation Day, join hosts Dwight Zscheile and Terri Elton in the Pivot Podcast for a transformative conversation with the Rev. Dr. Mark Tranvik, professor of Reformation history and theology at Luther Seminary. Explore how Martin Luther’s revolutionary insights from the Protestant Reformation can breathe new life into 21st-century ministry and address the challenges facing today’s church.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardLuther Seminary, Pivot Podcast, faith+leadComment
Faith Lens: Justification by Grace through Faith
Faith Lens: Justification by Grace through Faith

Reformation Sunday on October 27 reminds us of the transformative power of justification by grace through faith. As we reflect on Martin Luther’s legacy in this week’s Faith Lens, we are invited to consider how God’s grace continues to reform and shape us today. Join us in worship as we renew our commitment to live by grace, trusting that God’s presence calls us to be lights in the world.

Read More
ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith Lens, Youth and Young AdultComment
Church Leadership Institute provides podcasts on political polarization
Church Leadership Institute provides podcasts on political polarization

In the latest Crucible newsletter from the Church Leadership Institute, you can find a collection of episodes from their Spiritual Life and Leadership podcast that dig deep into the challenges of faith and politics:

If you’re looking for some quicker insights, they also have shorter episodes from our “Quick Conversations for the Long Haul of Leadership” series with Tod Bolsinger:

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardTod Bolsinger, The Crucible, Fuller Church Leader Institute, Creating Space for Conversations, Church and SocietyComment
Faith Lens: Serving the Public Good
Faith Lens: Serving the Public Good

As election season nears, this week’s Faith Lens calls us to consider how Jesus’ model of servant leadership should influence the way we choose our leaders. Mark 10:45 reminds us that Christ came “not to be served, but to serve,” challenging us to prioritize the public good over personal gain. As we prepare to vote, let’s hold our leaders to this higher standard, asking why they lead and whom they serve.

Read More
ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith Lens, Youth and Young AdultComment
“Inspired to Give” Webinar: Practical Tools for Growing Generosity
“Inspired to Give” Webinar: Practical Tools for Growing Generosity

Learn how to inspire generosity and simplify giving in your congregation with the “Inspired to Give” webinar, hosted by Vanco and the ELCA on October 24, 2024 at 10 am PDT/MST, 11 am MDT. You’ll gain insights into storytelling, best practices for giving, and exclusive tips on utilizing Vanco’s tools. Sign up today to join or receive the recording!

Read More
ELCA, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardStewardship, VancoComment
Thriving Leadership Formation: New Series Starts October 23
Thriving Leadership Formation: New Series Starts October 23

Join the Thriving Leadership Formation series starting October 23, 2024. This weekly online workshop integrates the Enneagram with practical leadership skills to enhance self-awareness, communication, and conflict resolution. Each session is stand-alone, and registration is required. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow into a more effective and compassionate leader!

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, Region 2, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardThriving Leadership Formation ProgramComment
Unlock the Art of Preaching with Diakonia’s Four-Week Course
Unlock the Art of Preaching with Diakonia’s Four-Week Course

Hesitant to preach? Diakonia graduates are invited to a four-week Zoom course titled “Preaching Good News to a World in Shambles,” starting October 19. Led by Reverend Carl Zimmermann, this class will help participants craft and deliver heart-engaging sermons, drawing on resources from Dr. Tom Long and Pastor Barbara Brown Taylor. Register now on Diakonia’s website.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardDiakoniaComment
Navigating Health Benefits for 2025: Portico and Your Congregation’s Role
Navigating Health Benefits for 2025: Portico and Your Congregation’s Role

The 2025 Portico Compensation Guidelines highlight updated health benefits through Portico Benefit Services for rostered ministers and lay employees. Congregations are encouraged to review the available health plan options—Gold+, Value Copay, and Silver+—and engage in conversations with plan members to select the best fit for their needs during annual enrollment. Learn more about the shared responsibility between congregations and plan members and how to support the well-being of those serving in ministry.

Read More
Grand Canyon Synod, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardPorticoComment
Explore Music, Worship, and More with ELCA Partner Resources
Explore Music, Worship, and More with ELCA Partner Resources

Discover a wide range of worship resources and events available for leaders and congregations through the ELCA’s October update. Opportunities include the Lutheran Summer Music Academy for youth, conferences for church musicians and liturgists, and new publications from Augsburg Fortress. Explore more details and how to get involved on the ELCA Worship blog. Read the full update here.

Read More
ELCA, News, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardELCA WorshipComment
Thriving Leadership Formation's September, 2024 Connections
Thriving Leadership Formation's September, 2024 Connections

Discover stories of faith and leadership in this month’s Thriving Leadership Formation update! From a reflective journey through Holden Village’s labyrinth to the reinstatement of the “Stories of Thriving” blog series, this newsletter is full of insights for life and ministry. Learn about upcoming cohort opportunities, leadership workshops, and spiritual practices that can support you this fall. Don’t miss out on the latest updates and events—click here to read more! Read the full newsletter.

Read More
Region 2, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardThriving Leadership Formation Program, California Lutheran UniversityComment
Faith Lens: The Last Shall Be First
Faith Lens: The Last Shall Be First

As hurricanes continue to ravage vacation destinations, it’s easy to forget the year-round residents who make these places thrive. Many struggle with poverty and insecurity, and now face additional threats from the storms. In the latest Faith Lens, we explore how our faith calls us to stand with these vulnerable communities—not just in times of disaster, but every day. Learn how you can support through Lutheran Disaster Response and live out the Gospel call to uplift those left behind.

Read More
ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardFaith Lens, Youth and Young AdultComment