The Signs of the Times

From time to time I write an article on what my travels across the U.S. are teaching me. It has been awhile since I have shared my observations, so I thought I would pass on a few of the major trends I am seeing that I think will change the shape of things to […]

What’s All the Buzz Part One

By Bill Easum (2007)

The phrase “What’s the Buzz” is taking on more meaning every year.  Let me explain.

Those of you who know me know I have long been a proponent of television and direct mail marketing. While I am still a proponent of these two media I am becoming less convinced of their effectiveness.

Case […]

Staff Disharmony: The Giant Killer

In the world of church, there are many different kinds of giants. Some are the kind we need to get our slings out to slay. But there are other giants who have earned our respect. For instance, there are giants of the faith: women and men who have already died to self and live […]

Why Your Church Needs an Outreach Avatar

In a world where attention spans are shrinking and competition for time is fierce, churches face the monumental task of staying relevant and impactful. The key to overcoming this challenge lies in understanding your target audience—your Outreach Avatar. Contrary to popular belief, having a specific Outreach Avatar doesn’t limit your reach; it actually expands […]

Use as Directed

“Use as directed” – Three little words found on the label of the bottle containing your doctor’s prescription.  If we are wise, we will use the contents of that container “as directed.”  Why wouldn’t you do the same with the contents of your church growth consultant’s directive?  Especially when your consultant carries the credibility and […]

Are You Making These Five Hospitality Mistakes?

They had a problem. A BIG problem.

More than nine out of ten first-time visitors who walked through the door never returned. It was like their visitors walked in, took a quick look around, and maybe even kicked the tires and hung out for worship, but once they left the building, their sentiments were, “Cross that church […]

AI: A Pastor’s Toolkit for Less Stress and More Bless

Imagine this: It’s early Monday morning, and you’re already feeling the weight of the week ahead. Your calendar is a jigsaw puzzle of meetings, administrative tasks, and pastoral duties. Somewhere between the budget review and the staff meeting, the heart of your calling—to connect, to bap all right screw it I’m doing here I’m just […]

The Virtual Church in a Pandemic World

 The last two months have been difficult on all of us. Many of our members have lost their job and are afraid of running out of money if they haven’t already. And if your members are running out of cash so is your church. And like all good pastors you are looking for a […]

501(c)(3) Status for Churches: A Guide to IRS Rules

As a church leader, your ministry’s focus is likely on reaching the unchurched in your community—not studying legal tax classifications. But tax exemption is an important status that can greatly benefit your church, so it’s worth understanding whether or not you should apply.

If you want to obtain 501(c)(3) status for your church, you’ve come […]