Seminaries, Ordination, and Denominationalism

For yet another week, this topic deserves its own category.

• Transparency in the Ordination Process – Adam Walker Cleaveland shares his thoughts about this whole ongoing dilemma. He also links to tons of people’s opinions regarding the ordination debate.
• National and Local Ordination Standards – Adam isn’t finished talking yet.
• The “Right” Sized Church Staff – A fascinating graph shows that white protestant churches have significantly more staff than black protestant or Catholic churches as a church grows in size. Some very interesting commentary as well.
• Tony Jones on Doug Pagitt’s Radio Show “The Question” – And the topic? Ordination, mostly.
• Is Seminary Relevant? A Professors Perspective – Dr. John Stackhouse weighs in on the ongoing debate with an essay he published a while back.

Youth Ministry

• Partnering Church and Parents – Jeff points out an interesting video about churches combining with parents to minister to their children.
• A Graduation Critique – It’s that time of year, isn’t it? Dixon offers some helpful thoughts.
• Seven Benefits of Shutting Down Youth Ministry Programs Over the Summer – Tim used to think you had to have things going on year-round, but no more.
• Book Review: When Kids Hurt – Jeremy gives a quality review of this new book by Chap Clark and Steve Rabey.
• Real Ministry is in the Moments – Frank reminds us when lots of quality ministry really happens.
• Who Would Jesus Torture? – Brian provides a discussion starter that doesn’t skirt a controversial topic.
• Shifting our Mental Models – From the Fuller Youth Institute Blog: “We have to fail people’s expectations at a rate they can stand.”

Church & Theology

• Getting Started with Church Dogmatics – Barth’s Church Dogmatics is a massive work, and Ben offers his suggestions of the most important sections for those who aren’t inclined to read the whole thing. If someone would like to buy me the new edition, just email me and I’ll send you the shipping address. 😉
• Equilibrium is Death – Alan Hirsch has some words that most of our equilibrated churches won’t want to hear.
• Poets, Prophets, & Preachers – An intriguing conference featuring Rob Bell, Peter Rollins, and Shane Hipps. Wish I could go.

Random

• BBQ Rules – Totally random, generally true, and definitely funny.
• Guess this song – This is one of the most amazing (and pointless) youtube videos I have ever seen.
• How to Create a Minimalist Computer Experience – For those of you who are trying to stay productive on your computer.
• Rick Goes off on a Rant – Seriously, subscribe to this man’s blog.