As we’ve explored AI’s potential for enhancing ministry, we must also clearly acknowledge its limitations. Certain aspects of pastoral ministry remain irreducibly human and spiritual, beyond any algorithm’s capability. Understanding these boundaries isn’t about fearing technology but about preserving what makes ministry truly transformational—the mysterious intersection of human relationship and divine grace. The incarnation—God becoming […]
Ministry doesn’t pause between Sundays. The weekly rhythm of pastoral work—administration, communication, visitation, preparation, and coordination—can either energize or exhaust. AI tools, thoughtfully integrated into weekly workflows, can reduce administrative burden while enhancing ministry effectiveness. Here’s a practical guide to using AI throughout your ministry week, creating sustainable rhythms that serve both congregation and pastor. […]
As I prepare to move from Susanna Wesley United Methodist Church to McPherson First United Methodist Church this summer, I’ve been thinking a lot about how important it is to have good conversations during these changes. Over the years, I’ve used different resources to help with pastoral transitions. Still, this time, I decided to make […]
What kind of pastoral care did Jesus provide? I continued to consider this question at our small group this week when we read the story of the man born blind from John 9. Jesus makes some mud, puts it on the eyes of a man who was born blind and sends him to wash in […]
What kind of pastoral care did Jesus provide? I was challenged to consider this question by a co-worker last week who used the story of Lazarus as an example. Here are the opening lines of this narrative from John 11, TNIV: 1 Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village […]
Rev. Andrew Conard 