When did we stop talking? In the busyness and stress of our world, people are losing the art of forming friendships, perceiving that it’s easier to isolate than congregate. Community has become a geographical area rather than a group of people with a common resonance. For our well-being, we need to discover the art of connection. We thrive when we

Share an adventure Gandalf: I am looking for someone to share in an adventure that I am arranging, and it’s very difficult to find anyone. Bilbo: I should think so—in these parts! We are plain, quiet folk and have no use for adventures. Nasty disturbing uncomfortable things! Make you late for dinner! I can’t think what anybody sees in them

So grateful for friends Recently we had a family tragedy. James our grandson died in childbirth. (You can read about some of the journey here: Link to blog) We were all heartbroken. One of the key things that have helped/is helping us journey through the grief is our friends; friends who called and friends who came over, people who reached

I asked my builder if I could help lay the timber floor for our new house. Graciously he consented if I completed a health and safety course. I got my white ticket and enjoyed making a difference. Our spotted gum floor looks wonderful. There is no white ticket for my industry. Do you know where the hazards and risks are

Myth: If they are doing God’s will the staff will not get physically or emotionally sick. Myth: We don’t need to look after them, that’s God’s job. Debunked: Paul the apostle stated that his ministry to the Galatian church commenced when he was sick, and he was looked after by them. “Surely you remember that I was sick when I

What are your holidays like? What is the word that comes to mind? Rest and fun, or stress, or a distant memory, or non-existent? 1. Know the purpose of the holiday. Holidays are about rest, fun and building deep connections. It’s a time for creating memories. The shared experience of this time together allows people to grow closer. Holidays with

How do you prepare for your holidays? 1. Put it in the calendar. Early in my ministry life I learnt to set the date in the calendar in the first round of entries for the coming year. In planning the coming year, along with the things you can’t change—weddings, anniversaries, school, uni, required work commitments like must attend conference—holidays need

The numbers game Over a coffee, one of my Pastor friends was lamenting the recent low attendances in his church. “It must be the school holidays,” he said, “people go away.” He was obviously a little discouraged. It’s funny how the numbers affect us. We are up when they are up, and down when they are down. Get a group

Remove the shame I was embarrassed to admit that I was moderately depressed. It was much easier to admit to high stress and low anxiety in my burnout. It felt ok to acknowledge the high stress, as it came with a false badge of honour awarded by a busy life. My embarrassment over depression came from a wrong understanding of