You’re ready for first-time guests. You’ve planned your sermon series. You’ve prepared your message. But how do you know if it’s working? How do you evaluate your weekend experience? Throughout the “Weekend Quality Check” series, we’ve shared some practical ways you can increase the quality of your weekend planning, preparation and execution. Now, it’s time to evaluate it.  In this episode, Sean and Amy talk through some ways to evaluate our weekends. Plus, we have another great interview to share with you from a very strategic Millennial pastor whom we love dearly: Jimmy McCloud at First Christian in Canton, Ohio. For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at  theunstuckgroup.com/episode371. This Episode is Sponsored by PlainJoe Studios Unleash the power of your church’s story with PlainJoe, a Storyland Studio! Their creative, fun-loving team of designers, architects, and specialists will come alongside your church to help you excel in your storytelling—and reach the people who need you most. PlainJoe has expertise in strategic, spatial, and digital storytelling, from brand development to architecture, website design, and beyond. Learn more at plainjoe.net.   Join the Conversation on Social Media We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X and on Instagram.   

How do you engage both church insiders and outsiders with your teachings? This discussion dives into balancing relatable messages that resonate across diverse audiences. Practical coaching tips reveal the importance of clarity and collaboration in crafting impactful sermons. Insights from Pastor Carlos Ortiz shed light on delivering transformative teachings with authenticity and humor. The emphasis is on turning every message into a powerful tool for real-life application, ensuring that church teachings foster genuine transformation.

Discover the art of crafting sermon series that resonate with both church-goers and newcomers. The conversation covers strategic planning, emphasizing intentionality and teamwork to enhance engagement. Learn how personal invitations play a key role in growing church communities, and explore practical tips for boosting financial sustainability. Hear insights from industry leaders on improving weekend services and the impact of creating memorable experiences. Get ready to elevate your church’s outreach and connection!

Weekend Quality Check (Part 1) - We’re hearing it from churches across the country: More and more people are showing up on the weekend, and it’s really encouraging. When you have that kind of momentum, it’s easy to start coasting. It’s easy to stop noticing what needs attention, which is why now is a really good time for a quality check. Weekend quality is about more than creative excellence, though; it’s about how well you leverage that time to engage both insiders and outsiders. So, in this series, we are going to share some practical ways you can up the quality of your weekend planning, preparation and execution—to steward the momentum if you have it or to spark it if you don’t.  In the first episode, Amy and Sean talk about common issues we see with the way churches prepare (or don’t prepare) for guests and share some solutions. We also interview Pastor Mark Johnson from The Journey in Delaware, a church we’ve served for years that sets a high bar in how they prepare for first-time guests. For the full episode transcript, links mentioned during the show and to download the Leader Conversation Guide, visit this episode's Show Notes at theunstuckgroup.com/episode368. This Episode is Sponsored by Horizons Stewardship Did you know many capable households contribute more to their favorite charity than their local church? This trend is putting a significant financial strain on churches everywhere. That’s why Horizons and The Unstuck Group have joined forces to create “The Financial Sustainability Crisis,” a guide designed to help you tackle these ongoing financial challenges. In this invaluable resource, you’ll discover practical strategies to: Effectively budget and manage your financial resources Connect your giving to your discipleship journey Identify ways to ensure your ministry plan is fully funded Don’t let financial challenges hold you back from realizing your God-inspired vision. Download "The Financial Sustainability Crisis" today at horizons.net/fundministry.   Join the Conversation on Social Media If you're listening on Wednesday when the episode first releases, join the live conversation The Unstuck Group's team will be having on social media about this week's topic. We use hashtag #unstuckchurch on X. Or you can join in on Facebook.

A strategic leader discusses the essential role of family ministry in church leadership. The conversation dives into the importance of adapting to modern parenting and building genuine relationships with younger generations. Technology's role in children's ministry is explored, showcasing its potential to engage youth while keeping strong theological foundations. There’s a focus on creating transparent church environments to foster community and safety. Lastly, the impact of family ministry leaders on church growth and attracting young families is highlighted.

Creating dynamic environments for kids' ministry is vital in connecting with families. Justyn Smith shares insights from over two decades of experience, focusing on innovative design to engage the next generation. He emphasizes crafting a lasting mission-driven atmosphere rather than frequent redesigns. Post-pandemic, there's a fresh perspective on children's ministry, highlighting belonging and memorable experiences akin to Disney's storytelling. Ultimately, cultivating a thriving ministry involves fostering a supportive atmosphere and empowering volunteers for impactful engagement.

Amy Anderson, a collaborator with Tony Morgan, brings her expertise in church leadership and family ministry to the discussion. They tackle the issue of who is really accountable when attendance dips among kids. The focus shifts to the crucial role of church leadership in creating environments that attract young families. Strategies for engaging multigenerational support, integrating kids' ministry within services, and the necessity of inclusive programming are explored. A compelling case for prioritizing next-gen ministries is presented, emphasizing their impact on community growth.

In a heartfelt tribute, Sean, Tiffany, and Amy honor Tony Morgan, a beloved leader known for his dedication to Jesus and his church. They express their shock over his sudden passing and share personal anecdotes that underline his empowering leadership and love for his family. The discussion touches on Tony's profound impact on the church community, as well as plans for a celebratory service that encourages attendees to share memories. This poignant reflection serves as a reminder of his legacy and the lasting influence he had on those around him.

The discussion highlights the recent surge in millennial church attendance and the critical role of young families in church vitality. Listeners learn about effective strategies for leaders to engage this demographic by addressing their unique needs and challenges. The complexities of modern parenting are explored, particularly the influence of technology. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of building multi-generational communities within churches and creating welcoming environments that nurture faith and transform future church experiences.

Discover eye-opening trends from nearly 400 churches in the latest report on church health and dynamics. There's a noteworthy 17% increase in weekly attendance and a 32% rise in online service views. Explore the surprising financial insights, where declining churches see higher giving per capita. Dive into the key differences between growing and plateauing congregations, focusing on outreach strategies, worship styles, and digital engagement. This analysis is a treasure trove for church leaders aiming to adapt and thrive.