Today’s conversation takes us into the world of small churches, where our guests describe the distinctive rhythms and responsibilities of leading a smaller congregation. They talk about what church studies and conferences that usually focus on bigger churches often miss about small church life, as well as the multi-hat roles pastors often play and the hands-on tasks unique to small congregations. The discussion highlights the beauty of small church ministry, the depth of relationships, and the lessons new ministers need to embrace in order to thrive.

Notes:

Contact ⁠Tanya Yuen⁠

Learn more about Small Church Connections

On Naming "Small Churches": A few days after recording this episode, a number of our female clergy gathered for a Female Clergy Retreat. While introducing themselves, one of our pastors of a church of 20 or so congregants described her church as a "Boutique Church."

Here is a description of a "boutique" store: "Boutiques are specialty shops that sell limited types of products. A large retail chain may offer clothing, makeup, hair products, and possibly even food all in one place. Boutiques operate in small spaces, so they must be more selective when ordering inventory." A boutique hotel is described as: "Small-capacity hotels that provide more personalized service than typical hotels." The women at our retreat loved this way to describe our small churches - focussing on the unique benefits and blessings of a small church. Ruth was eager to share this new term as part of our podcast!

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Website: baptist.ca

Credits:

Host: Leanne Friesen

Guests: Ruth Bartlett, Ron Johnston, Michel Belzile

Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova

Edited by: Josh Del Rosario