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Welcome! To learn about us and our mission, click on "about us." To begin using this site, select a feature, click on a category above, or enter a search term in the Quick Search box. Or, click on "how to use this site."
Wondering what resources were added since your last visit? Click on "recent additions" to learn about the last 25 resources we reviewed!
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The Networked Congregation: Embracing the Spirit of Experimentation
 | You've heard about blogs, podcasts, and other online networking tools from the world of "Web 2.0." And you're wondering what to think, what to do, where to start, and how these tools might support the ministries in your congregation. Religion writer Andrea Useem offers an informative guide to becoming a "networked congregation." Also available in a print-ready format.
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Approaches to Spiritual Direction
 | "Spiritual direction," says Monica Maxon, "starts with a desire to live a life more centered in God and the knowledge that help and guidance are needed to do so." If you're considering the ministry of spiritual direction, or seeking direction for yourself, we hope you'll begin with this essay. Then check out our list of annotated resources. |
Spring Reading Recommendations
 | Looking for something to read that will challenge and inspire you? The Congregational Resource Guide staff offer you our "top pics" for the spring. Whether your interest is conflict, multiculturalism, pastoral imagination, peacemaking, Paul's letters, or spiritual practices, you’ll find this season's most recommended books. Check out the annotated titles and linked websites! |
Effective Communications: Advice from Two Experts
 | What does effective communication mean in a congregation or judicatory? What are key points to remember when developing a communication system? What tools are out there? These "Wise Voice" interviews with communications experts Heidi Shott and Susan Elliott will be valuable for any faith community seeking help. |
American Religious Identification Survey
 | Available as a pdf download or website, the 2008 American Religious Identification Survey reports on how adults in the United States identify their religious affiliations. It also correlates religious self-identification with such demographic factors as age, race, gender, marital status, and level of education—as well as with beliefs about God and participation in religious rituals. |
Imagination and the Pastoral Life: A Way of Seeing
 | What are the elements of a sound pastoral imagination that responds to both God's call and the ecclesial imagination of a congregation? How can pastors foster this imagination in themselves and support it in one another? Craig Dykstra addresses these questions. Reflection questions, additional resources, and a print-ready version are included. |
Faith Strategies for Healing from Divorce and Uncoupling
 | This report from sociologist Kathleen Jenkins narrates her four-year study of the search for healing and congregational support after divorce. Jenkins explains rituals and practices for divorced persons in Catholic, Jewish, and Protestant traditions. Also featured are an annotated list of resources and a print-ready version. |
The How-To's of Constructive Criticism
 | There are times when critical feedback is needed—toward congregational staff, volunteers, and others. While giving such feedback is never comfortable, these tips from former pastor Charles Dickson will help to make the process more constructive and effective. Reflection questions, additional resources, and a print-ready version are included. |
Evaluation: Some Basic Principles
 | Seeking to do an evaluation of your congregation and its leadership, but wondering where and how to start? Ian Evison, Congregational Services Director of the Central Midwest Unitarian Universalist Association, offers some basic principles to keep in mind. Important reminders—such as to collaborate and to avoid anonymous feedback—are featured. |
Beyond Reading: Using Books as Resources
 | Books can serve as excellent tools for congregations seeking to address a variety of challenges. But what should you seek in a book, and how can you and other leaders use a book most effectively? The Indianapolis Center for Congregations offers sound answers to these questions, as well as some questions for you to consider. |
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