New England Perspectives
A regularly updated collection of articles written by New England leaders and thinkers. Looking for news articles? Click here.
The Catalytic Leader: A New Vision for New England's Churches
In the historic landscape of New England—once the epicenter of spiritual awakening in America—a profound opportunity awaits church leaders ready to embrace catalytic thinking. This is not merely about sustaining existing congregations but about igniting a movement that could transform the region once known as the cradle of American Christianity.
Why Multiplication Matters: The Key to Church Revitalization in New England
It doesn’t take long to realize that New England's religious landscape is at a crossroads. Churches face declining attendance and consolidation, and there is a growing secularization. Let’s explore why adopting a multiplication mindset is crucial for revitalizing faith communities in this historically significant but increasingly post-Christian region.
The AI Revitalized Church: Embracing Technological Advancements for Ministry Vitality
In a recent BCNE Staff meeting, we discussed the concepts of the AI revolution and how we can embrace a tool that will not disappear anytime soon. In an era of unprecedented technological progress, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into various aspects of society has become an inevitable reality.
New England Churches at a Turning Point: Engaging the “Nones”
Across America, churches are struggling to engage younger generations. This trend is especially acute in New England, where less than 30% of adults under 30 now identify with a religion (Pew Research Center, 2015). As churches confront shrinking and aging congregations, they face a pivotal choice – reinvent ministry for the modern era, or risk fading relevance in one of America’s most proudly secular regions.
Igniting Church Renewal: Building Momentum for Vibrant Transformation
It is a New Year! Get ready to set sail on an exhilarating journey of church revitalization! Picture yourself at the starting line, eagerly anticipating the race horn that signals the commencement of a transformative sailing experience. The clock ticks down, and with less than ten minutes to go, a new wave of activity surrounds you. The race comes alive, their well-rehearsed movements filling the air with excitement.
Revitalizing the Post-COVID Church in New England: Cultivating Vitality for Multiplication
The global COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to various aspects of human life, behaviors, and relationships. It also messed with religious practices and how people approach services and gatherings. Churches worldwide had to adapt rapidly to new circumstances, finding innovative ways to maintain spiritual connections with their congregations while adhering to health and safety guidelines.
Transitions and Church Revitalization: Lessons We Can Learn from Tom Brady’s Retirement
Football is an excellent teaching tool for the Church and its leadership. I have said for many years “Sport speaks.” It speaks about transitions, pressures, training, plays, setbacks, comebacks, and tensions. It is no surprise to New Englanders that quarterback Tom Brady is re-retiring from football.