October has traditionally been designated as Pastors' Appreciation Month. Appreciation and honour of pastors is not limited to one month, but October is a time to make space for thanking those who lead and shepherd congregations.

What happens when you're asked to take on a responsibility that is not only challenging but appears to be failing? How do you respond? God had much bigger plans than we do. When we step out in faith, he ministers to people's hearts in absolutely stunning ways.

How can our church make a difference in our local public schools? Why not walk across the street to your local public school and see what the question, “What do you need and how can we help?” leads to?

God, can you please help us because, without You, we're done for! Understanding the times calls us to action, not to fear and dismay in the midst of chaos.

Why should I be concerned about personal accountability? The imperative of accountability in leadership.

How can I intentionally invest in my young pastor? ABNWT's pathway for developing our incredible young leaders continues...

Why are churches unable to stay open and grow? In an age where the Canadian population is growing, churches nationwide seem to be shrinking. The media calls it “the age of secularism,” but I call it a “wake-up call for the churches in Canada.”

Is there a place I can find trustworthy support for the call of God in my life? We increase the opportunity for success by surrounding ourselves with those who raise us up.

Our Canadian churches have the greatest opportunity to reverse the trend of decreasing Christian influence in Canada. It works when we obey Christ and shed off everything else. We invite you to join us at the Church Vitalization Summit on August 29 and 30 for two 90-minute virtual sessions on reversing the trend in Canada.

What can you do to reach our community with just two people and a few bucks? Here are 20 outreaches that you can do with one other person. If done consistently over time, you'll see the fruit.

Why does it seem that I am unable to break through to a place of worship? What is preventing us from actively worshipping when we are assembled with other believers? Here are some thoughts from Al Downey’s logbook.

Ah, summertime. Time to shake off winter’s effects, wind down, find a comfortable spot, relax, and read or listen. Five books that are worth your holiday time this summer. What books do you recommend that I will enjoy this summer?

How do we reach young families when we don’t have any in our church? Although it may be difficult, it is still very possible. Guest writer, Jonathan Duhamel, gives two things you can do that will hopefully help you reach young families in your community.

Where are you seeing God working in your context? God is working in rural Canada through churches with long-term community engagement and creating a reputation for being community builders.

Why are you trying to grow your ministry by yourself? From the early days in Jesus’ example to the early church, you’ll read ministry stories in collaboration and partnership. Ministers joined forces and faith to see great things accomplished. Where one lacked, the other contributed and so on. Jesus himself chose to do ministry in teams; these disciples would have had input into Jesus’ life and ministry.

Are you kid-friendly? During a time when Jonathan DuHumal and his family were looking for a church home, they tried out many well-meaning churches and just never stayed. These are the three things those churches didn’t that you CAN do.

How can I make the best use of the short summer months? Here are a few 'time and experience' tested tips from Papa Al to help you capitalize on this glorious season.

Our Canadian churches have the greatest opportunity to reverse the trend of decreasing Christian influence in Canada. It works when we obey Christ and shed off everything else. We invite you to join us at the Church Vitalization Summit on August 29 and 30 for two 90-minute virtual sessions on reversing the trend in Canada.