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African-American Church Music: Beyond the myths

Do you think spirituals and gospel music pretty well sum up African American church music? Here's an invitation to discover the riches of African American sacred music, no matter who you are.

May 14, 2004 | 7 min read
In Times of Death: Resources for Funeral and Memorial Services

Pastoral leaders are often puzzled by the varying expectations and needs that people have at the time of a death. What should a funeral service be like? What are the purposes of such a service? Is it worship? Is a memorial service preferable? What is the difference between a funeral service, a memorial service, and a committal service? Where can I find resources?

May 9, 2004 | 12 min read
Are You Selling Youth Short?

Do the words "pizza" and "Bible study" define your church's idea of youth ministry better than the phrases "mentoring younger kids" and "leading worship" do? A feature story about a new way to lead youth ministry.

April 30, 2004 | 4 min read

How One Campus Is Learning to Worship God in All of Life

It's not every day that a Baptist professor walks into a Catholic religious supply store and spends over $2,500. A feature story exploring the how one college is learning from the community around them.

April 16, 2004 | 6 min read
Unwrapping the Gift of Music from Other Cultures

Have you noticed all the clues that God loves diversity? Iona Community members can help you introduce music that reflects the gifts of Christians from "every tribe and language and people and nation."

April 2, 2004 | 6 min read

Interview with Visky Andras

In 1944, the Communists liberated Eastern Europe from Nazi oppression, but by 1948, the Communists had imposed complete tyrannical rule. They tried to forcefully silence Christians, because Christianity was a threat to the regime

March 5, 2004 | 4 min read
What Makes Songs So Powerful They Won't Disappear?

What makes some songs so powerful that they never disappear? David and Asaph wrote them. Through the work of many Christians we have them around today.

March 5, 2004 | 5 min read
Members of One Body?

Though it grieves and puzzles people in communities where Catholics and Protestants regard each other as members of Christ's body, tension and persecution mar relationships between Catholics and Protestants in Mexico.

January 24, 2004 | 3 min read

Why We Still Need Hymns in a Postmodern World: The Formative Power of Worship

An article evaluating the importance of using hymns in a postmodern world.

January 21, 2004 | 22 min read
Worship Service: When God Breaks In: We See Glory - Luke 2, John 1 (Christmas Eve, Day)

A service plan for Christmas focused not merely on Mary and Joseph, or even on the miracle of Christ's birth, but on the glory of God that is revealed. Part of an Advent series of anticipation focused on what happens when God breaks in to our lives.

November 1, 2003 | 8 min read
Worship Service: When God Breaks In: He Stretches Us - Jonah

A service plan for Advent recounting how God "broke into" the story of Jonah, calling him to a task and stretching him until he was willing to be obedient. God also broke into the life of Nineveh through Jonah. Part of an Advent series of anticipation focused on what happens when God breaks in to our lives.

November 1, 2003 | 6 min read