Successful AI integration in ministry requires more than individual pastoral competence—it needs congregational engagement. Building an AI-equipped ministry team involves training, empowerment, and cultural change. Here’s how to move from solo experimentation to congregational transformation, ensuring technology serves the whole body of Christ rather than creating digital divisions. Begin with a small coalition of the […]
Have you ever ventured into your basement or storage area and confronted the graveyard of good intentions? Many of us have those boxes labeled “someday”—the craft supplies, the exercise equipment, the project kits we bought with such enthusiasm. Our family’s basement holds evidence of unfinished dreams, each one started with genuine excitement, each one set […]
The class meeting—Wesley’s genius innovation for spiritual formation—remains one of Methodism’s greatest gifts to Christian discipleship. These small groups of twelve people meeting weekly for mutual accountability transformed individual believers into a movement that changed the world. Today, AI and digital tools can enhance this proven model while preserving its essential relational character. Here’s how […]
Have you ever missed an important phone call because you didn’t recognize the number? You let it go to voicemail, only to discover later it was exactly the opportunity you’d been hoping for. We live surrounded by notifications, yet often miss the most important messages – especially when God is calling. Here’s what I’ve learned […]
Knowing how to communicate with AI—what technologists call “prompt engineering”—is becoming an essential ministry skill. Just as learning to use email or social media expanded our ministry reach, mastering AI prompting multiplies our effectiveness. The good news is that this isn’t about complex programming but about clear communication, something pastors already excel at. Think of […]
Taking the first steps with AI doesn’t require a large budget or technical expertise. Today’s free AI tools offer powerful capabilities that can immediately enhance ministry effectiveness. The key is starting with low-stakes experimentation to build confidence and understanding before moving to more critical applications. This practical guide will help you begin your AI journey […]
September in Kansas brings its annual comedy show—watching neighbors simultaneously run their air conditioners and heaters on the same day. Maybe you’ve overheard someone say, “I wore shorts this morning and needed a jacket by lunch!” This weather whiplash mirrors something deeper in our lives. We constantly adjust, trying to control our comfort and security. […]
One of the jewels of the Shawnee County Parks and Recreation system is the Lake Shawnee Trail. Nearly every time I go for a run, I use it in some way. At times, a short loop around Tinman Circle and others around the entire lake with an extension down Berryton Road to reach my target […]
A couple weeks ago, I traveled to Houston for continuing education focused on highly functioning teams. It was part of the Advancing Pastoral Leadership program that I have been part of for several years. We had the opportunity to hear from leaders from Chick-fil-A, NASA, and Chapelwood UMC. It was an excellent learning opportunity and […]
Today is my 32nd day as the preacher assigned to Berryton United Methodist Church. It has been a wonderful journey of learning, sharing, and welcome. I am so grateful for the warm welcome that we have received from the congregation and community. One of the ways that I have been learning about the congregation is […]
Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the BOM Mid Quad Training Event in Denver. Bishop Hagiya of The Pacific Northwest Conference who shared his dissertation research results around the question: “What traits, qualities, or characteristics, if any, do highly effective and successful United Methodist Church ministers exhibit specifically in regard to growth of their churches when compared to less effective […]
This week I was part of the BOM Mid Quad Training Event in Denver. After some reflection, I want to share some possible next steps for me and for our Board of Ordained Ministry. Here goes… Next Steps for the Board of Ordained Ministry Have God’s eyes for big possibilities Consider process changes to encourage and identify […]
Rev. Andrew Conard 