By Melissa Wuske Ministers Face Financial Stress A recent survey by the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) showcases the financial stresses ministers face. “The vast majority of pastors do not have their own radio or TV show, robust church staff, or megachurch attendance,” said Leith Anderson, NAE’s president. “Rather, they faithfully serve in small churches […]
In The World—July 24, 2016
By Melissa Wuske The Most Important Voter Issues Nearly a third of voters say a candidate’s position on issues is the most important factor in choosing whether to vote for that person, according to a Barna Research study. Tied for second place (11 percent each) were the candidate’s experience/track record and their leadership qualities. While […]
In The World—July 17, 2016
By Melissa Wuske Payday Loans—Sinful? A recent study by LifeWay Research found that more than three-quarters of Christians think loans where the lender profits by hurting the borrower financially, such as high-interest payday loans, are sinful—and nearly 20 percent have taken out payday loans themselves. Christian leaders agree: “Payday loans with their exorbitant interest rates […]
In The World—July 10, 2016
By Melissa Wuske What’s New in Youth Ministry A Barna Group study, in partnership with Youth Specialties and YouthWorks, talked to senior ministers and youth ministers about the priority they place on youth ministry and the challenges and changes those ministries are currently facing. Most churches (61 percent) say youth ministry is one of the […]
In The World—July 3, 2016
By Melissa Wuske Flag Facts for the Fourth The iconic American flag has a rich lore, full of myths and little-known facts: Our current flag was designed by a high school student; Robert G. Heft submitted it as a school project, and it was eventually chosen by President Eisenhower. Heft designed a 51-star option also, […]