Generated by All in One SEO v4.8.8, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # EMC3 Coaching Excellence in Ministry Coaching ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://emc3coaching.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Testpost](https://emc3coaching.com/testpost/) - test - [Cruise Control](https://emc3coaching.com/cruise-control/) - by Eddie Pipkin Apologies if you eagerly awaited the arrival of this blog last week, because there wasn’t one. I was on a cruise with the family, and while I had initially planned to write last week’s blog in advance so that it could be published while I was frolicking in the Caribbean, that did - [This Old House](https://emc3coaching.com/this-old-house/) - by Eddie Pipkin I was riding along with a ministry friend last week, talking about all the good work he has been up to, and the conversation – as it inevitably does – turned to the one volunteer who was gumming things up and driving everybody crazy. We talked about some strategies for dealing with - [Your Call](https://emc3coaching.com/your-call/) - by Eddie Pipkin If you’ve been reading this blog for a while, you may have picked up two things about me. One, I am blind as a bat. Two, I play pickleball. (I know, me and every other old dude.) The overlap of these two truths means that when I am engaged in an intense - [Prepare to Win](https://emc3coaching.com/prepare-to-win/) - by Eddie Pipkin This week in the blog you get a two-fer. Two stories about the mindset of a winner, one about never being happy with the status quo and one about never assuming the status quo will continue to be the status quo. Whether you are a championship tennis player or a journeyman quarterback - [Rock the Whimsy](https://emc3coaching.com/rock-the-whimsy/) - by Eddie Pipkin I was flying back from Boston last weekend, and the day had been a little stressful because my phone had decided to blow up at the most inconvenient of times. I got to the terminal and just wanted to catch my breath in the hour before the plane was boarding. That would - [Crotch Dogs and Pickleball Playlists](https://emc3coaching.com/crotch-dogs-and-pickleball-playlists/) - by Eddie Pipkin At the pickleball complex last week, my partner and I were deep into a close match, when a foursome arrived and set up two courts down. This included hanging up a portable speaker and triggering their Tom Petty playlist. Now, I’m as big a fan of “I Won’t Back Down” as the - [Help As Strategy](https://emc3coaching.com/help-as-strategy/) - by Eddie Pipkin Confession time: I am terrible at backing up trailers. If you are one of those human beings who is naturally gifted at reversing a vehicle with a trailer behind it, be it a boat trailer, cargo trailer, or camper, I salute you. I have owned trailers over the years, and currently I - [The Value of Empty Space](https://emc3coaching.com/the-value-of-empty-space/) - by Eddie Pipkin Home organizers have plenty of tips about how to keep yourself sane in a house full of people and their constantly expanding stuff. Sometimes the advice is straightforward, like "Tidy up every day!" Sometimes it’s counterintuitive. For instance, the value of empty space. You’d think that in a world of optimization and - [One Eye Open](https://emc3coaching.com/one-eye-open/) - by Eddie Pipkin I hope you’ve had some time off this summer, or that you at least have some time off in the next few weeks before fall comes roaring in full-throated and commanding your undivided attention. Summer traditionally marks a slower pace in ministry life (except for you youth ministers!), and it’s good to - [Humility Door](https://emc3coaching.com/humility-door/) - by Eddie Pipkin Are you familiar with the nijiriguchi? It is the small doorway that marks the entrance to a Japanese tea garden. It translates in English to “humility door,” and it serves a distinctive purpose that sets the spiritual tone of the garden as a person enters it. It is an architectural feature that - [Rivers of Rebirth](https://emc3coaching.com/rivers-of-rebirth/) - by Eddie Pipkin I’m in Denver, Colorado this week. It’s a great city, with lots to do and see. One of the highlights is visiting the many cultural institutions, attractions, and recreation and nature spots along the South Platte River which runs through the heart of this thriving community. The riverfront was not always a - [Volley of Wisdom](https://emc3coaching.com/volley-of-wisdom/) - by Eddie Pipkin It’s Wimbledon time, and one of the greatest tennis players ever, the great Novak Djokovic, is once again pursuing grass court glory. At 38 he owns the all-time record for most men’s singles majors titles, and he was #1 in the world rankings for a record 428 weeks. The reason we are - [Kingdom for a Spoon](https://emc3coaching.com/kingdom-for-a-spoon/) - by Eddie Pipkin In this week’s edition, I will share with you a story of a wonderful night gone awry on account of a spoon – or rather, the lack of a spoon. It is a tale of a delightful dinner which ended on a sour note because of one missing utensil. Oh, the meal - [Sustainable Sustentation](https://emc3coaching.com/sustainable-sustentation/) - by Eddie Pipkin I was driving down a familiar stretch of busy 6-lane road recently and realized that the local government had invested in some nice new landscaping in the grassy median. I love it when public spaces are given some extra love and attention. I think it’s one of the things that sets a - [Machete Musings](https://emc3coaching.com/machete-musings/) - by Eddie Pipkin I had a lot of work to do to clear overgrowth down by the lake. There were months’ worth of vines, out-of-control ruellia simplex, and invasive wild taro. And you can’t whack taro with a string trimmer, because it’s a juicy plant whose sap produces profound itching if it gets on your - [Cruise Ministry](https://emc3coaching.com/cruise-ministry/) - by Eddie Pipkin I went with the guys to see the latest Mission Impossible movie. It’s an eight-film series, and Tom Cruise has been making them (and I’ve been going to the theater to see them) since 1996. That’s a long time! Superspy action-adventure flicks may or not be your thing, but you have to - [A Like-ly Development](https://emc3coaching.com/a-like-ly-development/) - by Eddie Pipkin It’s the 20th anniversary (more or less) of the invention of the Like button, the thumbs-up graphic used by Facebook and other social media platforms to show approval of a post. It’s hard to imagine a world in which we lived without an instantaneous, one-tap shorthand for our enthusiasm and endorsement of - [Graduation Expectations](https://emc3coaching.com/graduation-expectations/) - by Eddie Pipkin It’s the time of year when we celebrate graduates. We pause our worship services to recognize those who have achieved academic success. We attend parties for those we know who have put in the work to earn that diploma. Or we might even have a preschooler who is all suited up in - [The Lane Less Travelled](https://emc3coaching.com/the-lane-less-travelled/) - by Eddie Pipkin We make a regular six-hour interstate drive up I-75 once a month. We trek up the infamous Interstate from central Florida to central Georgia and back again to visit my mom. We’ve been making that drive for many years, so we know it well, but over the last half-decade it’s become increasingly - [Earned Ovation](https://emc3coaching.com/earned-ovation/) - by Eddie Pipkin In case you missed it, a lawyer arguing before the U.S. Supreme Court last week got a standing ovation. First of all, that’s not a thing that happens in the hallowed halls of the nation’s most sacred courtroom. Secondly, the ovation was initiated by the justices themselves, all nine of whom rose - [Unmarked Doors](https://emc3coaching.com/unmarked-doors/) - by Eddie Pipkin While I was travelling during Holy Week, I had an identical experience at two separate places of worship that threw me off kilter and made me wonder how much thought the good folks at both venues were giving to the experiences of drop-ins. On each occasion, as I arrived for worship, I - [Why You Should Put Your Old Wine in New Wineskins](https://emc3coaching.com/why-you-should-put-your-old-wine-in-new-wineskins/) - by Eddie Pipkin I’m in Virginia this week, visiting with an old friend who has changed things up by moving from the big city to a small bucolic town where she bought a 115-year-old house with great bones and quirky character. This friend has a sophisticated sense of style in all contexts and a natural - [Three Key Ideas to Better Discipleship](https://emc3coaching.com/three-key-ideas-to-better-discipleship/) - by Eddie Pipkin I heard a good story recently from a pastor friend who had made time for parishioners who had requested an ‘urgent’ meeting. Their emergency? They were greatly concerned that the church he led isn’t “doing discipleship right.” As long as there has been a church, there have been those who are convinced - [Glass Half Empty](https://emc3coaching.com/glass-half-empty/) - by Eddie Pipkin It’s plenty easy to cruise along with something that’s “good enough.” Right now, I have a busted stereo in my 2002 Jeep, so I keep telling myself how awesome it is to ride along without the distraction of music or news, just my own thoughts to keep me company. Surely, it’s not - [Hope vs Optimism](https://emc3coaching.com/hope-vs-optimism/) - by Eddie Pipkin Perhaps you are familiar with the work of Arthur Brooks, author, academic, and researcher of the science of happiness. He has lots of practical advice about how to build a better life, and although his work with Oprah occasionally veers into woo-woo territory for me, his take on our agency in decision - [Unforced Joy](https://emc3coaching.com/unforced-joy/) - by Eddie Pipkin Last week I wrote about Starbucks and “forced joy,” a directive from corporate leadership that employees would express joyful interactions by writing encouraging messaging on customer cups. It didn’t work, because dictating employee happiness and enthusiasm rarely does. On the other hand, giving employees – or volunteers – an opportunity to find - [Forced Joy](https://emc3coaching.com/forced-joy/) - by Eddie Pipkin Did you see Starbucks in the news in recent weeks for adding an additional mandate to the responsibilities of employees? Beginning in January, according to an edict from CEO Brian Niccol, all baristas were required to add a handwritten comment to each beverage. A note of affirmation, a tasteful funny observation, or - [Thing Before the Thing](https://emc3coaching.com/thing-before-the-thing/) - by Eddie Pipkin I had designated the past couple of weeks to work on home projects. I am not known as a handy guy. I can get things done when needed, but I am not gifted in this department, and I don’t have much fun doing it. I have a couple of friends who are - [Verve](https://emc3coaching.com/verve/) - by Eddie Pipkin I went to the county fair with my wife and my godson last week, and although we had gone mostly to check out the prize-winning chickens and sample some fried Oreos, we took advantage of some of the ‘free’ entertainment on the midway. Of course, we enjoyed the racing pigs – I - [SNL Ministry](https://emc3coaching.com/snl-ministry/) - by Eddie Pipkin I’ve always been a Saturday Night Live fan, and I’ve been consuming comedy for most of the show’s tenure, so I really enjoyed the 50th anniversary special that aired last weekend. It was a star-studded event (featuring many of the kinds of mash-ups I wrote about just last week, old faces paired - [The Mash-Up](https://emc3coaching.com/the-mash-up/) - by Eddie Pipkin I went to see the local opera company perform this week, and I had a great time. I realize that puts me squarely in the nichiest of niches a person can inhabit, culture wise. That’s why the opera folks are passionately invested in doing what they can to keep their work relevant, - [Dopamine Detox](https://emc3coaching.com/dopamine-detox/) - by Eddie Pipkin Chances are you are reading this blog on your smartphone. If so, it will have come to you by email, a now old-timey communications pathway. If you are a normal American, you will use that same smartphone for a chunk of today for scrolling. Scrolling news, scrolling the socials, scrolling cat videos, - [Accountability Buddies](https://emc3coaching.com/accountability-buddies/) - by Eddie Pipkin There is always that one elusive personal goal, the thing you really want to accomplish but can’t ever seem to get done. Maybe it’s a fitness goal, maybe a writing goal, maybe a home improvement project, or if you’re a ministry professional or volunteer, maybe it’s an initiative that has lived in - [Next Move](https://emc3coaching.com/next-move/) - by Eddie Pipkin I was watching a basketball game last week, a spirited back-and-forth between two evenly matched teams, and my team was ahead and had victory in their grasp. That is, until one of our players made a mind-boggling mistake, being whistled for taking longer than five seconds to inbound the ball. Disaster. The - [Beware Falling Rocks](https://emc3coaching.com/beware-falling-rocks/) - by Eddie Pipkin My wife and I were driving through mountainous terrain during Christmas vacation, and as we were rounding a windy corner, we saw a sign common to those parts: “Watch for Falling Rocks.” We’ve seen that sign plenty of times, but my wife was bemused on this occasion. “How exactly are we supposed - [Ending Resolutions](https://emc3coaching.com/ending-resolutions/) - by Eddie Pipkin My wife and I did not send Christmas cards this year. We've been mailing out season's greetings with adorable family photos for three-and-a-half decades, so that's a big change. The transition from old year to new year is often a time for big change and bold resolutions. It's worth remembering that ending - [Calamity Chronicles](https://emc3coaching.com/calamity-chronicles/) - by Eddie Pipkin Have you ever planned an event that went completely off the rails? Of course you have. We all have. For those of us who started out in youth ministry, we have a whole shelf full of stories of plans that went dramatically awry. We tell them in excruciating detail whenever we reunite - [Pretty-Ugly](https://emc3coaching.com/pretty-ugly/) - by Eddie Pipkin I was reading about an emerging design trend for 2025 that sounded like something I could embrace: a concept called “pretty-ugly.” It’s not about intentionally including something discomfiting as part of the décor: “This isn’t about collecting aesthetic disasters—it’s about curating pieces that raise a few eyebrows, spark some conversation, and reveal - [Captain Obvious](https://emc3coaching.com/captain-obvious/) - by Eddie Pipkin Like everybody else, I am susceptible to clicking on those listicle articles. You know the ones. It’s an article that’s structured as a list: “Five Keys to Financial Independence” or “Ten Clues That Your Boss Is Ready to Hand You a Pink Slip.” They are the favored structural tool for organizing ideas - ["Chur, Bro"](https://emc3coaching.com/chur-bro/) - It’s always a challenge to write a seasonal blog. That’s because you do it every year, and everybody else is doing the same thing thematically, too. And most of y’all work in ministry, so you know what I mean, because you’re in the business of designing worship and other special events (which people will relentlessly - [Finding What's Missing](https://emc3coaching.com/finding-whats-missing/) - by Eddie Pipkin I was checking out National Public Radio’s excellent resource, “Life Kit,” and the featured broadcast article was all about techniques for finding missing things. It focused on strategies for how to find personal items we’ve misplaced, but I was struck by how useful versions of those same strategies could be for finding - [Be Coachable](https://emc3coaching.com/be-coachable/) - by Eddie Pipkin I had a personal experience this week that I hope you can benefit from hearing about. I let myself be coached. This is probably momentous news only if you have known me for a long time. Traditionally, I am thoroughly, unfailingly, notoriously uncoachable. Don’t be like me. Don’t be stubborn. Don’t be - [Dropping the Ball](https://emc3coaching.com/dropping-the-ball/) - by Eddie Pipkin In my sports watching of the past week, there were heartbreaking moments of excellent players failing in spectacular fashion. The Yankees leaped out to a five-run lead in game four of the World Series as they fought to stave off elimination, then collapsed in a confounding series of errors that let the - [Vote for Calm](https://emc3coaching.com/vote-for-calm/) - by Eddie Pipkin I voted yesterday, October 31st. In some ways, it seemed an ironic commentary, the scariest thing I could think of to do on Halloween. It’s been a tumultuous election season, one in a series of turbulent seasons, and people are antsy. There is anxiety over the future of the country, whichever side - [Layers](https://emc3coaching.com/layers/) - There I was, reading another home design article (one of my hobbies for killing time when I should be doing other things), and I had that moment when I say, “Golly, this is just like ministry!” The design feature in question: light in the kitchen. Houzz contributor David Warfel creatively explained the five layers of - [Gear Me](https://emc3coaching.com/gear-me/) - by Eddie Pipkin This is the last in my series based on my recent backpacking trip to Yosemite National Park and this week, it’s all about the gear. Things have changed a lot since the pioneering environmentalist John Muir first explored the fabled California valley in 1868 with a walking stick, an ax, and a - [Challenge](https://emc3coaching.com/challenge/) - by Eddie Pipkin Last week, I wrote about hiking in the stunning Yosemite Valley. I did this trip with a high school buddy, one of my oldest and dearest friends. We’ve been doing trips together on a semi-annual basis for 40 years. Scheduling adventure trips or biking trips or “running” races is what I’ve always - [Find a Way](https://emc3coaching.com/find-a-way/) - by Eddie Pipkin I was blessed to do a week of backpacking in Yosemite National Park recently. Truly spectacular. If the word spectacular was invented to describe visually stunning scenery, it found its apotheosis in describing the Yosemite valley. It was a bucket list trip, and you get the treat of me using that trip - [Minimalist vs. Maximalist](https://emc3coaching.com/minimalist-vs-maximalist/) - by Eddie Pipkin What to keep and what to get rid of? It’s a modern dilemma. We are so blessed, our homes so filled with stuffthatwe’re constantly having to think about what should stay and what should go. Or we’re scheming ways to keep asmuch as possible! But I’ve been on a minimalist kick this - [Not So Obvious](https://emc3coaching.com/not-so-obvious/) - by Eddie Pipkin My wife and I took a little excursion over to SeaWorld to ride the new roller coaster, Penguin Trek. It’s always a thrill to ride a new ride for the first time, and beyond the experience of the coaster itself, part of the fun is always checking out how they’ve themed the - [Cover Story](https://emc3coaching.com/cover-story/) - by Eddie Pipkin I had a good friend who was telling me about attending one of those “Sip & Paint” events. She does this on occasion, meet up with some pals for a glass of wine and a guided painting session. None of them are artists, not even the amateur kind. That’s why I thought - [Options](https://emc3coaching.com/options/) - by Eddie Pipkin I had mentioned in other blog entries in the past few weeks that NBC had noted significant gains in viewer engagement for their Olympics coverage this year. This good news for the network followed the debacle of viewership non-interest during the previous, pandemic delayed games three years ago. The massive surge in - [The Snoop Dogg Effect](https://emc3coaching.com/the-snoop-dogg-effect/) - by Eddie Pipkin Well, if you’ve been watching the Olympics on NBC and affiliated networks, you’ve been front and center as they bring in a new generation of commentators and reporters. The ratings from the last Olympics, delayed by the pandemic and devoid of crowd energy, were a ratings disaster, so the network programmers decided - [I Resolve](https://emc3coaching.com/i-resolve/) - By Eddie Pipkin Let’s make some resolutions, kids! It’s that time of year, and as people of ritual and calendar-based customs, it’s a fine exercise in thoughtful visioning to get on the 2023 resolutions bandwagon. And I’m not just going to produce a generic ministry resolutions list for next year – oh, no – I’m - [Demonstrative Disdain](https://emc3coaching.com/demonstrative-disdain/) - By Eddie Pipkin - [Second Chances](https://emc3coaching.com/second-chances/) - by Eddie Pipkin One last thought on the just completed Olympic games. In all the hoopla over the superhuman performances of American gymnast Simone Biles, it’s important to remember that this wasn’t just any gold medal performance. This was an epic comeback story. Having dramatically withdrawn from the previous Tokyo Olympics, mid competition, with an - [Fourth Place Finish](https://emc3coaching.com/fourth-place-finish/) - by Eddie Pipkin It has continued to be all-Olympics viewing all the time at my house! What a great games it has been, so many dramatic and inspiring stories. You see the joy in the winners’ faces, as they jump about the track or the pool or the court and drape themselves in their countries’ - [Let the Games Begin](https://emc3coaching.com/let-the-games-begin/) - by Eddie Pipkin It’s time for the XXXIII Olympiad, Paris 2024, and I hope you’ve blocked off your calendar to watch some of the 329 medal events that will feature athletes from around the world competing in traditional demonstrations of physical prowess – running, rowing, and pole vaulting, for instance – and, shall we say, - [Go with the Flow](https://emc3coaching.com/go-with-the-flow/) - by Eddie Pipkin I wrote last week about my recent trip to Costa Rica. It’s the rainy season in Central America, so we saw rain every day we were there. We were prepared; we had rain gear, so afternoon deluges didn’t slow us down. They don’t slow the locals down either. One of the main - [Value of a Guide](https://emc3coaching.com/value-of-a-guide/) - by Eddie Pipkin I had the good fortune to visit Costa Rica for 10 days – go if you get a chance. It’s a wonderful country filled with wonderful people and wonderful wildlife. The animals are spectacular. But seeing them requires more than just careful planning and good luck. It also takes expertise and familiarity - [The Big Slowdown](https://emc3coaching.com/the-big-slowdown/) - by Eddie Pipkin A couple of mornings ago, I took my coffee out to the back porch and balanced it on the little table beside my favorite chair for reading the newspaper as the sun comes up. I studied a few articles, took a sip, then, no doubt distracted by whatever engrossing story I was - [Nostalgia Power](https://emc3coaching.com/nostalgia-power/) - by Eddie Pipkin I had a great Father’s Day last weekend, and if you’re a dad (or a bonus dad), I hope you did, too. I received some fun gifts (a very cool jumbo National Parks themed rubber ducky) and some edible gifts (here’s looking at you, prickly pear cactus gummies), but what really made - [Good Intentions](https://emc3coaching.com/good-intentions/) - by Eddie Pipkin Last week’s blog episode referenced a podcast from Hidden Brain. This week you get a referral to the Freakonomics universe. An April podcast from the minds that explore weird connections in the world of economics focused on the impacts of unintended consequences. In the ministry world, we have stories to tell. We - [The Brainstorm Bergschrund](https://emc3coaching.com/the-brainstorm-bergschrund/) - by Eddie Pipkin Ministry leadership groups love to brainstorm ideas. One of the most popular activities among those who are sketching out their vision for the coming year is to get a bunch of people together in a room with a big whiteboard or a bunch of newsprint and start writing down concepts, pie-in-the-sky notions - [Kinks](https://emc3coaching.com/kinks/) - by Eddie Pipkin I have a great yard, a Central Florida acre that features some fruit trees, plenty of flowers, and assorted colorful tropical landscape plants. I tend this flora for the serenity of it. I'm a person who needs a regular serenity-inducer to counterbalance my natural impatience. Therefore, I try to keep the gardening - [Upon Reflection](https://emc3coaching.com/upon-reflection/) - by Eddie Pipkin I turned 61 a couple of weeks ago. I know, I know, dear readers, you thought from the tone of my exuberant observations and the recounting of my hyperkinetic adventures that surely I was a much younger man. Some days, I feel like my much younger self. Some days, I definitely don’t - [Super Fan Fest](https://emc3coaching.com/super-fan-fest/) - by Eddie Pipkin It was great to read a recent article which focused on the ways in which major corporations are coming up with new ways in which their customers and biggest devotees can be a part of the development of new products: “Toymakers go to fans for ideas.” The article cites examples from Lego - [5 Keys to "More and Better Leaders" - The Right People on the Bus](https://emc3coaching.com/5-keys-to-more-and-better-leaders-the-right-people-on-the-bus/) - July 12, 2012 By Phil Maynard Jim Collins made this first part of the description of effective leaders almost a household term. It, of course, refers to selecting the right people to be leaders for any organization. The question is: How do you know who the right people are? I, for much of my - [5 Keys to 'More and Better Leaders' - Skin in the Game](https://emc3coaching.com/5-keys-to-more-and-better-leaders-skin-in-the-game/) - July 17, 2012 By Phil Maynard I was coaching a pastor several weeks ago who shared that he was looking for a way to get a new family at the church more connected. Joe, the father in the family, was a well-known businessman in the community. The pastor said: “I’m thinking about asking him to - [Free Book Summary: Right Here, Right Now by Alan Hirsch and Lance Ford](https://emc3coaching.com/free-book-summary-right-here-right-now-by-alan-hirsch-and-lance-ford/) - July 24, 2012 By Phil Maynard Right Here Right Now is structured with three major sections: Putting our Hearts into it (missional paradigm) Wrapping our Heads around it (missional analysis) Doing something about it (missional action) Alan Hirsch provide a briefing giving some foundations for a missional framework and a debriefing summarizing what he considers - [More and Better Leaders: "No Lone Rangers"](https://emc3coaching.com/more-and-better-leaders-no-lone-rangers/) - August 1, 2012 By Phil Maynard For some reason ministry leaders seem to think they have to figure it all out on their own. Maybe it’s the title that does it, maybe its our culture we were brought up in, or maybe its just about our egos. But its time that the church figured out - [Free Book Summary: Bearing Fruit by Lovett Weems and Tom Berlin](https://emc3coaching.com/free-book-summary-bearing-fruit-by-lovett-weems-and-tom-berlin/) - August 27, 2012 By Phil Maynard Chapter 1: A Biblical Mandate for Fruitfulness The authors remind us that the Bible begins and ends with images of fruitfulness and conclude that the church is also intended to be fruitful. They identify three types of fruitfulness that God hopes we will display: The Fruit of God’s expanding - [Popcorn Witnessing](https://emc3coaching.com/popcorn-witnessing/) - August 27, 2012 By Phil Maynard I was sitting in my preferred seat (the nosebleed section) of the annual denominational meeting of my tribe with a lot of other bored people. Then it happened. The smell of fresh popcorn wafted across the aisle. The little girl enjoying her snack had no idea the impact she - ["Getting to Know You"](https://emc3coaching.com/getting-to-know-you-2/) - November 8, 2012 By Phil Maynard It would seem to be a ‘no-brainer’. If we’re going to connect with our community, engage our community, and make a difference in our community we have to ‘know’ our community. I am discovering however that ‘knowing’ the community is not always the case for congregations. A while back, - [From Information to Transformation: Coaching for Discipleship](https://emc3coaching.com/from-information-to-transformation-coaching-for-discipleship/) - November 29, 2012 By Phil Maynard Although I have been a life-long United Methodist, one of my most formative experiences in the faith journey was the introduction to accountable discipleship. Drawing on the rich heritage of the Wesleyan Class meetings, the accountable discipleship helped me understand that being a disciple of Jesus Christ was - [Missional Renaissance, A Leadership Network Book Summary](https://emc3coaching.com/missional-renaissance-a-leadership-network-book-summary/) - December 4, 2012 By Phil Maynard Reggie McNeal, currently serving as the Missional Leadership Specialist for the Leadership Network, identifies in this classic work three major shifts that must take place in the Church if it is to live into its God-given potential in the next century. This book is a must-read for all church - [Crockpot Ministry… Feeding Body & Spirit](https://emc3coaching.com/crockpot-ministryfeeding-body-spirit/) - December 14, 2012 By Phil Maynard It all started in a discussion during a SHIFTS network meeting with the pastors and key lay persons from five congregations talking about the difference between missional gestures and ministries of engagement related to serving others. One of the pastors was convicted that his congregation had focused on missional - [Starting at the Wrong Place - Why Church Leadership Isn’t Working and How to Fix It! (Part 1 of 3)](https://emc3coaching.com/starting-at-the-wrong-place-why-church-leadership-isnt-working-and-how-to-fix-it-part-1-of-3/) - January 22, 2013 By Phil Maynard It is rare that I work with a church that says it has more than enough leaders to support its ministries and that its leaders are equipped to what is expected of them (and by rare I mean never!). When I talk with pastors and leaders from congregations - [Bearing Fruit… Why Church Leadership Isn’t Working and How to Fix It! (Part 2 of 3)](https://emc3coaching.com/bearing-fruit-why-church-leadership-isnt-working-and-how-to-fix-it-part-2-of-3/) - January 23, 2013 By Phil Maynard Doug Anderson, author and speaker from the Reuben Job Center, shared in a workshop the following: “The test of a congregation’s discipling process is whether their core leaders are preference driven or mission focused” The difference between these two ideas is huge… Preference Driven is about getting our way - [Discovering the Possibilities](https://emc3coaching.com/discovering-the-possibilities/) - January 31, 2013 By Phil Maynard Discovering the Possibilities (MAPS – Ministry Action Potential Study) A study of missional opportunities for the local church The Discovering the Possibilities is a facilitated process designed to assist congregational leaders understanding the realities of their ministry context and current ministries, and to begin discerning possibilities for their future - [5 Shifts for Healthy Churches](https://emc3coaching.com/5-shifts-for-healthy-churches/) - February 20, 2013 By Phil Maynard Some version of the statement “you can’t keep doing things the same way you have been and expect to get different results” (notice how tactful I was here!) seems to be worth pondering by churches Ffrom a wide variety of denominational tribes. We all know it just doesn’t work. - [5 Ways to Get People into the Word](https://emc3coaching.com/5-ways-to-get-people-into-the-word/) - April 11, 2013 By Phil Maynard 5 Ways to Get People into the Word (the most critical element of spiritual growth) Reflection on scripture is the vanilla ice cream of spiritual growth. It is the stuff that all the other spiritual growth catalysts are built upon. Engaging scripture personally and regularly is critical for spiritual - [3 Keys to Building Accountability in Your Discipleship Process](https://emc3coaching.com/3-keys-to-building-accountability-in-your-discipleship-process/) - April 21, 2013 By Phil Maynard I come from a Wesleyan tradition so I confess that personal accountability is wired into my being. Having said that, it is also clear across denominational lines and theological perspectives that movement toward maturity in the Christian journey requires a level of accountability. The genius of Wesley’s discipling process - [4 Ways to Help People Feed Themselves Spiritually](https://emc3coaching.com/4-ways-to-help-people-feed-themselves-spiritually/) - April 28, 2013 By Phil Maynard “We are not meant to remain as children…but we are meant to speak the truth in love, and to grow up in every way in Christ, the head.” (Ephesians 4:14, JB Phillips) There is a deep-seated expectation in the contemporary church that it is the responsibility of the church, - [4 Steps to Getting Disciples Engaged in Service](https://emc3coaching.com/4-steps-to-getting-disciples-engaged-in-service/) - May 5, 2013 By Phil Maynard “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first, must be your slave – just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to be served, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew - [What is a Vital Congregation? A Unique Christian Community (#1 in a series of 4)](https://emc3coaching.com/what-is-a-vital-congregation-a-unique-christian-community-1-in-a-series-of-4/) - July 31, 2013 Guest post by Jeff Stiggins There is lots of talk these days in United Methodist circles about increasing the number of vital congregations. Okay, what’s a “vital congregation?” If one ran through the room right now, how would you recognize it? In this blog series, I’d like to offer a definition of a “vital congregation.” The - [What is a Vital Congregation? Committed to Continuing Jesus' Ministry (#2 in a series of 4)](https://emc3coaching.com/what-is-a-vital-congregation-committed-to-continuing-jesus-ministry-2-in-a-series-of-4/) - August 6, 2013 Guest post by Jeff Stiggins It isn’t my church or your church or even our church. The church belongs to Jesus. It’s easy to forget that the church is a franchise. We don’t get to decide what the church is about. The mission is set. Still we vote on what we want as if our preferences - [What is a Vital Congregation? Planted in Particular Place (#3 in a series of 4)](https://emc3coaching.com/what-is-a-vital-congregation-planted-in-particular-place-3-in-a-series-of-4/) - August 13, 2013 A guest post by Jeff Stiggins A vital congregation makes present and impactful the incarnational ministry of Jesus in a particular place. Vital congregations are homegrown. They are rooted in and reflect the culture and people in their communities. Therefore, there are no vanilla, one-size-fits-all vital congregations. Everyone is tailor-made for their particular location. What blooms like - [What is a Vital Congregation? Fruitful in their Ministry (#4 in a series of 4)](https://emc3coaching.com/what-is-a-vital-congregation-fruitful-in-their-ministry-4-in-a-series-of-4/) - August 20, 2013 A guest post by Jeff Stiggins A missionally vital congregation is a fruitful congregation. Jesus in John 15 makes it clear that fruitfulness is expected. Unfruitful branches are cut off. Fruitful branches are pruned so that they will bear more fruit. Obviously, fruitfulness is important to Jesus. So, what does it mean to be a fruitful congregation? - [Don't Let Your Problems Take Over Your Agenda](https://emc3coaching.com/dont-let-your-problems-take-over-your-agenda/) - September 9, 2013 By Phil Maynard He is a friendly sort and a fine neighbor, but he loves yard care by chemicals. When we first moved in he had quite a nice yard – recently sodded, I believe. Then some weeds began popping up here and there. He would go out and spray the weeds - [When There Isn’t Enough](https://emc3coaching.com/when-there-isnt-enough/) - September 23, 2013 By Phil Maynard There seems recently to be an epidemic of people feeling that there is not enough. Not enough money. Not enough time. Not enough talent. Not enough power. Not enough creativity. Not enough me. Jesus taught us to pray, "Give us this day our daily bread." Yet, often we focus - [Training Your Congregation to Be Radically Hospitable](https://emc3coaching.com/training-your-congregation-to-be-radically-hospitable/) - September 29, 2013 By Phil Maynard Have you ever tried to teach a child to tie their shoes? It’s something most of us do so naturally and automatically that breaking down the process into teachable steps is a challenge. According to a number of pastors I’ve spoken to recently, teaching people to extend Christ’s radical hospitality - [Empowering Laity](https://emc3coaching.com/empowering-laity/) - October 31, 2013 By Phil Maynard Weary Clergy and Idle Laity: What's Wrong With This Picture? One of the impressions I get is that many pastors are weary. They have been at this ministry thing 60 hours or more a week for some years and they are just tired. And no matter how hard they - [Can You Have Traditional Passionate Worship?](https://emc3coaching.com/can-you-have-traditional-passionate-worship/) - November 5, 2013 By Phil Maynard “We are a small church with a traditional worship service, not a passionate worship service,” said a pastor apologetically. The pastor seemed to assume that a traditional worship service couldn’t possibly be a passionate worship service. And that a small membership congregation couldn’t worship passionately. I don’t think either - [Liberated to Live on Less . . . In Order to Bless Others More (Part 1 of 3)](https://emc3coaching.com/liberated-to-live-on-less-in-order-to-bless-others-more-part-1-of-3/) - November 12, 2013 By Phil Maynard I know of few pastors who look forward to talking about money . . . and few lay persons who enjoy listening! Oddly, Jesus talked more about our relationship to money and things than faith, prayer or forgiveness. In fact, he spoke more about it than anything but the - [Liberated to Live on Less . . . In Order to Bless Others More (Part 2 of 3)](https://emc3coaching.com/liberated-to-live-on-less-in-order-to-bless-others-more-part-2-of-3/) - November 22, 2013 By Phil Maynard We continue thinking about extravagant generosity by looking at our culture from the vantage point of what Jesus hoped would be our relationship to money and things. Our culture, infected as it is by the disease of “affluenza,” might be characterized in three ways. Materialism: it is all about - [Liberated to Live on Less . . . In Order to Bless Others More (Part 3 of 3)](https://emc3coaching.com/liberated-to-live-on-less-in-order-to-bless-others-more-part-3-of-3/) - November 29, 2013 By Phil Maynard As Christ poured himself out for us, so we who follow him must pour ourselves out for others -- by being liberated to live on less . . . in order to bless others more. How does the church cultivate extravagant generosity? I’m borrowing from Andy Stanley, pastor of - [Nothing Beats the Personal Invitation](https://emc3coaching.com/nothing-beats-the-personal-invitation/) - December 13, 2013 By Phil Maynard Don’t miss the opportunity of the Christmas Season. This is one of three or four times a year (seasonally) when people are most open to an invitation to church. It’s no secret. Most churches (somewhere around 80%) are plateaued or in decline when it comes to participation in worship. - [Thoughts for a Season of Hospitality…](https://emc3coaching.com/thoughts-for-a-season-of-hospitality/) - December 19, 2013 By Phil Maynard Consider the following. …It’s a familiar story lived out in many congregations across the United States. Someone is in crisis, a couple has their first child, or a family moves to the area. They decide to attend the church down the street. They don’t know anyone, so they arrive - [A Powerful Tool for Hospitality – Your Website](https://emc3coaching.com/a-powerful-tool-for-hospitality-your-website/) - December 26, 2013 By Phil Maynard Did you know that as many as 90% of people looking for a place to worship will visit the website of a church before making a decision to attend? The website of the church is today’s equivalent of an advertisement in the yellow pages a decade or two - [Multiplying Congregational Leaders](https://emc3coaching.com/multiplying-congregational-leaders/) - January 15, 2014 By Phil Maynard Almost every where I go pastors indicate that one of the top two needs in the congregation is more and better leaders. Over the next few weeks I will be looking at some key components for developing a system for multiplying congregational leaders. The storyboard below gives an overview - [Growing Spiritually Mature Leaders](https://emc3coaching.com/growing-spiritually-mature-leaders/) - February 19, 2014 By Phil Maynard Jesus once warned about building a house on a poor foundation. Nowhere is this issue more obvious than when we have leaders in place without the foundations to sustain them through the shifting sands of ministry leadership. It is frequently the case in selecting congregational leaders that we - [Selecting Leaders for Ministry](https://emc3coaching.com/selecting-leaders-for-ministry/) - February 26, 2014 By Phil Maynard Selecting Leaders for Ministry It is often said that the key to leadership is getting the right people on the bus and in the right seats on the bus. I think there is much truth to this. But how do you know if you are getting the right people - [Helping Make the Way Clear](https://emc3coaching.com/helping-make-the-way-clear/) - March 12, 2014 By Phil Maynard The Psalmist talks about God’s Word as a lamp for our feet and a light upon our path (Psalm 119:105). It’s a great image for making the way clear! Our leaders need partners to help make the way clear as they seek to fulfill their responsibilities. Its time the - [Bigger Than Refreshments…](https://emc3coaching.com/bigger-than-refreshments/) - May 30, 2014 By Phil Maynard I recently had a coaching conversation with a church leadership team that has made a serious commitment to extending radical hospitality. Their planning has finally paid off in that just a few weeks ago a hospitality team launched their first ever ‘hospitality center’ where coffee and refreshments were available - [The Inverse Square Law of Relationships](https://emc3coaching.com/the-inverse-square-law-of-relationships/) - June 10, 2014 By Phil Maynard My first career was in Radiologic Sciences (X-ray technology). One of the basic principles in calculating x-ray intensities (or lighting in photography) is called the inverse square law: When you double the distance, the intensity of the x-ray beam becomes one-fourth of the original intensity. I have found - [Book Review: See, Know & Serve (Part 1)](https://emc3coaching.com/book-review-see-know-serve/) - June 23, 2014 By Phil Maynard Thomas G. Bandy is an internationally recognized church consultant and leadership coach. The author of many books over the years, this may be my favorite due to the very practical nature of this resource. Bandy has been a leader in the development of helpful resources for understanding demographic research - [Book Review: See, Know & Serve (Part 2)](https://emc3coaching.com/book-review-see-know-serve-part-2/) - July 21, 2014 By Phil Maynard Thomas G. Bandy is an internationally recognized church consultant and leadership coach. The author of many books over the years, this may be my favorite due to the very practical nature of this resource. Bandy has been a leader in the development of helpful resources for understanding demographic research - [Faith Coaching](https://emc3coaching.com/faith-coaching/) - August 7, 2014 By Phil Maynard If you want to see real results and relationships, become a coach to others and take them on the journey from where they are to where they want to go! Coaching people through their faith journey will impact your life and the lives of those you coach… -Phyllis Hendry, - [Goldilocks and the Three Churches](https://emc3coaching.com/goldilocks-and-the-three-churches/) - October 28, 2014 By Eddie Pipkin Too hard, too soft, and just right. Have you heard the tale of Goldilocks and the Three Churches? Goldilocks visited three churches on three consecutive Sundays, and while she enjoyed the worship at each one, she was particularly interested in how they would follow up with a visitor like - [Letting It Go](https://emc3coaching.com/letting-it-go/) - November 4, 2014 By Eddie Pipkin You’d have to be a hermit in the deepest cave in the most remote mountain range not to have heard a kid belting out the Disney movie Frozen’s signature song: “Let It Go.” The characters and the song are cute enough, but the enormous popularity of the tune (just - [Chvch Rules](https://emc3coaching.com/chvch-rules/) - November 25, 2014 By Phil Maynard Chvches (pronounced “churches”) isn’t a religious group at all. They’re a Scottish ‘electronic’ band that is currently touring the U.S. behind its 2013 album release, The Bones of What You Believe. In an interview this past summer with Chicago Tribune writer Luis Gomez, the band mates related what they - [Top 5 Things People Need from the Church to Grow as Disciples](https://emc3coaching.com/top-5-things-people-need-from-the-church-to-grow-as-disciples/) - December 2, 2014 By Phil Maynard Series…Top 5 Things People Need from the Church to Grow as Disciples 1 – Help Understanding the Bible Research by Willow Creek (as reported in the book Move: What 1,000 Churches Reveal About Spiritual Growth) identifies ‘help in understanding the Bible’ as a need reported by around 75% of - [Top 5 Things People Need from the Church to Grow as Disciples](https://emc3coaching.com/top-5-things-people-need-from-the-church-to-grow-as-disciples-2/) - December 9, 2014 By Phil Maynard 2 - Help developing a personal relationship with Jesus Developing a personal relationship with Jesus doesn’t happen by accident. It isn’t transferred by osmosis. We don’t ‘catch’ it by sitting next to another Christian in the pew on Sunday morning. In unpacking the tools of how to aspire toward - [Top 5 Things People Need from the Church to Grow as Disciples](https://emc3coaching.com/top-5-things-people-need-from-the-church-to-grow-as-disciples-3/) - December 16, 2014 By Phil Maynard Leaders Who Model and Reinforce Spiritual Practices (Part 3 of Top 5 Things People Need From a Church to Grow as Disciples) It is often said that where the leaders go, the people will follow. I think this is especially true in the Church. I worked with an Administrative - [Top 5 Things People Need From the Church to Grow as Disciples](https://emc3coaching.com/top-5-things-people-need-from-the-church-to-grow-as-disciples-part-4/) - December 23, 2014 By Phil Maynard The Challenge to Grow and Take Next Steps (Part 4 in the Top 5 Things People Need From the Church to Grow as Disciples) This may come as a surprise for some, but the Willow Creek survey indicates that a large percentage of those beginning and starting to grow - [Top 5 Things People Need from the Church to Grow as Disciples](https://emc3coaching.com/top-5-things-people-need-from-the-church-to-grow-as-disciples-4/) - December 30, 2014 By Phil Maynard Encouragement to Take Personal Responsibility for Spiritual Growth (Part 5 of Top 5 Things People Need from the Church to Grow as Disciples) As people move toward maturity they should become less dependent on the local church to provide for their spiritual growth. They should begin to take responsibility - [Storage Unit](https://emc3coaching.com/storage-unit/) - January 23, 2015 By Eddie Pipkin Every year, the week before Advent begins, I drive to the church storage unit with the Director of Children’s Ministry for the local congregation that she and I serve, and we load my ragged old Honda Odyssey right up to the roof with all of the Christmas decorations. Then - [Creating Powerful Worship Experiences](https://emc3coaching.com/creating-powerful-worship-experiences/) - January 30, 2015 By Phil Maynard Part 1 -- Building a Team -- (an 8-part blog series) The classic view (perhaps romantic, somehow spiritually heroic) is of a lone pastor, tucked away in a study by candlelight, weighty bound commentaries stacked around him as he toils late at night awaiting inspiration by the Holy Spirit, who swoops - [Creating Powerful Worship Experiences - Part 2](https://emc3coaching.com/creating-powerful-worship-experiences-2/) - February 6, 2015 By Phil Maynard (Part 2 of an 8-part blog series) If you have identified a team of people passionate about worship at your church, and if you truly want to empower them to produce worship experiences that connect experientially with your congregation, the single greatest gift you can give this team is - [Worship Experience - Destination Clarity](https://emc3coaching.com/worship-experience-destination-clarity/) - March 17, 2015 By Phil Maynard Creating Powerful Worship Experiences (Part 3 of an 8-part blog series) Clarifying the Destination It is difficult to know if we have successfully arrived at our destination without first having a clear concept of where it is we are headed. And likewise, it’s difficult to get everybody else to - [Silent Disco](https://emc3coaching.com/silent-disco/) - March 24, 2015 By Eddie Pipkin “Silent Disco” – The Importance of Clarity of Vision Eddie Pipkin I was on a three-day cruise to the Bahamas recently, helping a good friend celebrate his graduation from seminary, and I got the biggest kick out of this onboard activity called The Silent Disco. The first night of - [Creating Powerful Worship Experiences - Setting the Stage](https://emc3coaching.com/creating-powerful-worship-experiences-setting-the-stage/) - May 19, 2015 By Phil Maynard One of the most powerful aspects of worship design is visual. If you are working within the framework of thematic worship design, this is an excellent way to anchor the theme and give worshipers a strong sensory connection that is constantly present no matter what else is happening during - [Creating Powerful Worship Experiences - Building Out Your Theme](https://emc3coaching.com/creating-powerful-worship-experiences-building-out-your-theme/) - May 26, 2015 By Phil Maynard Once you have committed to the design philosophy of creating a thematic worship series, the challenge, as espoused in books like The Big Idea, is to tailor all elements of a particular worship service to reinforce the theme for the day. It is possible, and indeed invigorating, to get - [Creating Powerful Worship Experiences: Be Creative](https://emc3coaching.com/creating-powerful-worship-experiences-be-creative/) - June 12, 2015 By Phil Maynard Like the title says, be creative. Nobody who would actually take the time to read a “Powerful Worship Experiences” blog would disagree with that advice. That is to say, nobody who has a hand in leading worship would advocate the alternative strategy: don’t be creative. Everybody wants to honor - [Coach K’s Advice](https://emc3coaching.com/coach-ks-advice/) - June 17, 2015 By Eddie Pipkin On April 6th, Coach Mike Krzyzewski’s Duke Blue Devil’s won the 2015 NCAA basketball championship, the culmination of March Madness. Coach K, as he is known by all, is the winningest coach in college basketball history. In the course of his 40 year coaching career, he has won - [A New Way of Seeing](https://emc3coaching.com/a-new-way-of-seeing/) - June 21, 2015 By Eddie Pipkin You’ve probably never heard of Alex Kipman. He’s the engineer behind one of the ‘wow’ developments in tech devices right now, a gizmo that Microsoft is developing called the HoloLens. According to Time Magazine, the HoloLens is a virtual reality headset that “effectively projects 3-D holograms directly in front - [The Details That Can’t Be Seen](https://emc3coaching.com/the-details-that-cant-be-seen/) - September 22, 2015 By Eddie Pipkin I was a big fan of the AMC series Mad Men, which focused on the characters in a Madison Avenue advertising agency during the 1960’s. One of the most discussed and beloved aspects of the show was the way it captured the vibe of that era–how it looked and - [12 The Best Way To Defeated Writer’s Hinder For PhD College students ( dissertation writing )](https://emc3coaching.com/12-the-best-way-to-defeated-writers-hinder-for-2/) - 12 The Best Way To Defeated Writer’s Hinder For PhD College students ( dissertation writing ) At 100 sites, writing a PhD dissertations paralyzes the bravest student. Breaking up writer’s obstruct for PhD applicants is simple and likely. Please read on to learn about how. About the most terrifying and important and vital incidents in - [Like Riding a Bike](https://emc3coaching.com/like-riding-a-bike/) - October 1, 2015 By Eddie Pipkin Destin Sandlin is an aerospace engineer (that is, he is a real rocket scientist who works at the Redstone Arsenal in Alabama). He is also a YouTube educator, who makes entertaining videos about scientific insights, which he posts on a channel called, Smarter Every Day. Recently, a friend sent - [Even Iron Man Blows It Sometimes](https://emc3coaching.com/even-iron-man-blows-it-sometimes/) - October 6, 2015 By Eddie Pipkin Click Here to Read Full VentureBeat Article Elon Musk is considered by many to be a genius. He founded PayPal, SpaceX, SolarCity, and Tesla. He works tirelessly to harness technology to build money making businesses AND promote a more environmental (and adventure-filled) planet. Heck, he has been acknowledged as - [12 Tactics To Prevent Writer’s Block For PhD School students ( dissertation writing )](https://emc3coaching.com/12-tactics-to-prevent-writers-block-for-phd/) - 12 Tactics To Prevent Writer’s Block For PhD School students ( dissertation writing ) At 100 web sites, crafting a PhD dissertations paralyzes the bravest student. Stopping writer’s prohibit for PhD classmates is available uncomplicated. Continue reading to discover how. One of the terrifying and useful feelings in scholar high school was composing my thesis - [Accountability Dinner](https://emc3coaching.com/accountability-dinner/) - October 14, 2015 By Eddie Pipkin Peyton Manning is one of the best quarterbacks to play the game of football. In his 17-year career, he has thrown for more than 70,000 yards, and just a few weeks ago became the record holder for most NFL touchdown throws (at 538 and counting). He is most widely - [4 urban centers the ses and dissertations](https://emc3coaching.com/4-urban-centers-the-ses-and-dissertations-31/) - 4 urban centers the ses and dissertations Dissertation on selling plan in advance chuckling music poetry studies essays evaluate 2 essays plagiarism negative effects figurative tongue in essays dissertation and volunteers well-written essays about bravery upbeat or pessimistic essay. Dissertation abstracts international b murray rothbard egalitarianism as a revolt versus type and various essays facts - [Let’s Talk](https://emc3coaching.com/lets-talk/) - October 27, 2015 By Eddie Pipkin In an expansive essay in a recent New York Times Sunday Review, “Stop Googling and Let’s Talk,” (a preview of her new book, Reclaiming Conversation: The Power of Talk in a Digital Age), professor and author Sherry Turkle shares her research and conclusions in the field of online connectivity - [Membership to Discipleship: How a Book Was Born](https://emc3coaching.com/membership-to-discipleship-how-a-book-was-born/) - November 2, 2015 By Phil Maynard I am very excited to share that on November 20th, we are officially launching a new book, called Membership to Discipleship. This book is the product of many years of work with the leaders of individual congregations across the United States—it is, in a very real sense, the culmination - [Membership to Discipleship: Defining the Terms](https://emc3coaching.com/membership-to-discipleship-defining-the-terms-2/) - November 6, 2015 By Phil Maynard As we approach the release of my new Membership to Discipleship book in late November, I want to continue to give you some insights into how this book came to be. It has been an organic outgrowth of decades of ministry work. For years, both as a pastor of - [Repurposing the Tried and True](https://emc3coaching.com/repurposing-the-tried-and-true-post/) - November 12, 2015 By Eddie Pipkin I have a friend named Shari who hates to throw things out. She is environmentally attuned, composts and conserves, recycles and repurposes. The folks at her church wait to throw things into the dumpster until she’s out of town. That’s because she has been known to climb into the - [One Stop Shop](https://emc3coaching.com/one-stop-shop/) - November 18, 2015 By Eddie Pipkin Don’t you love going to Ikea? They have it all. You tour the showroom, plop on the furniture, hold things in your hands, see a completed vision for what a room is supposed to look like, then follow the maps to pick up everything you need and take it - ['Tis the Season](https://emc3coaching.com/tis-the-season/) - December 11, 2015 By Eddie Pipkin Here we are – all of us in the business of ministry – hurtling non-stop through the busy season between Thanksgiving and Christmas, liturgically referenced as Advent, but colloquially known as Survival Mode. Every ministry has dozens of extra events: special worship, seasonal outreach and mission projects, children and - [Star Wars Liturgy](https://emc3coaching.com/star-wars-liturgy/) - By Eddie Pipkin December 21, 2015 Much has been written about the younger generation’s disaffection for the church. They report being disconnected from a tired message, stale programs, and language that isn’t relative to their daily experience. They are unengaged and unenthusiastic, bored with the way we do worship. They can’t relate, and they are - [4 cities the dissertations and ses](https://emc3coaching.com/4-cities-the-dissertations-and-ses-88/) - 4 cities the dissertations and ses Dissertation on promotion and marketing policy giggling music poetry analysis essays do a comparison of 2 essays plagiarism negative effects figurative foreign language in essays dissertation and volunteers professionally written essays about courage positive or pessimistic essay. Dissertation abstracts intercontinental b murray rothbard egalitarianism for a revolt with aspect - [The 4 Keys to Building a Connecting Church](https://emc3coaching.com/the-4-keys-to-building-a-connecting-church/) - By Phil Maynard September 26,2016 Every church I meet with expresses in some way a desire to reach new people and engage them in becoming growing disciples of Jesus Christ. It is also true, however, that almost every church I meet with is in decline, resulting in fewer people participating in worship, less of a - [The Missing Piece](https://emc3coaching.com/the-missing-piece/) - By Phil Maynard February 3, 2017 I have been a fan of Alan Hirsch since early in his work with the missional movement in America. In his book, The Forgotten Ways, Alan describes the 4 P’s of Incarnational Ministry: presence, proximity, powerlessness, and proclamation. I think this is a terrific insight for both the missional - [Freshly Minted Mantra](https://emc3coaching.com/freshly-minted-mantra/) - By Eddie Pipkin - [Chatbot or Not](https://emc3coaching.com/chatbot-or-not/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Compendium of Complaints](https://emc3coaching.com/compendium-of-complaints/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Projection of Enthusiasm](https://emc3coaching.com/projection-of-enthusiasm/) - By Eddie Pipkin I was at a race event at Daytona International Speedway last weekend, and I happened to have a pass that allowed me infield access. Looking up from ground level from some distance away to the enormous grandstands that front the iconic 2.5-mile track, I was astonished to see how many people were - [My New BFF](https://emc3coaching.com/my-new-bff/) - By Eddie Pipkin - [Rules to Live By](https://emc3coaching.com/rules-to-live-by/) - By Eddie Pipkin - [Fun Enough?](https://emc3coaching.com/fun-enough/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [One Stop Funeral Shop](https://emc3coaching.com/one-stop-funeral-shop/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Dial M For Ministry](https://emc3coaching.com/dial-m-for-ministry/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Slingshot Drivers](https://emc3coaching.com/slingshot-drivers/) - By Eddie Pipkin - [Inadvisable Outcomes](https://emc3coaching.com/inadvisable-outcomes/) - By Eddie Pipkin - [March Mindfulness](https://emc3coaching.com/march-mindfulness/) - By Eddie Pipkin - [What's Your Reason?](https://emc3coaching.com/whats-your-reason/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [How to Break the Spell](https://emc3coaching.com/how-to-break-the-spell/) - by Eddie Pipkin I was at the awesome new St. Pete Pier last week. It is a testament to innovative public space planning. It’s been enthusiastically embraced by the locals and lauded in national travel publications as a cool place to visit – and it is. It combines fun, whimsy, nature, food, art, architecture, community, - [RUD Rules](https://emc3coaching.com/rud-rules/) - By Eddie Pipkin - [Too Many Bears](https://emc3coaching.com/too-many-bears/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Milestones](https://emc3coaching.com/milestones/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Waffle House Rules](https://emc3coaching.com/waffle-house-rules/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [On Fleek Cellies](https://emc3coaching.com/on-fleek-cellies/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Summer Purge](https://emc3coaching.com/summer-purge/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Satisficed!](https://emc3coaching.com/satisficed/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [At the Airport](https://emc3coaching.com/at-the-airport/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Benched](https://emc3coaching.com/benched/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [The Obstinate Ones](https://emc3coaching.com/the-obstinate-ones/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Hold on to Your Potato](https://emc3coaching.com/hold-on-to-your-potato/) - By Eddie Pipkin - [The Barbenheimer Effect](https://emc3coaching.com/the-barbenheimer-effect/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Line of Deference](https://emc3coaching.com/line-of-deference/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Misaligned Metrics](https://emc3coaching.com/misaligned-metrics/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Build Those Skills](https://emc3coaching.com/build-those-skills/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [New Look New Life](https://emc3coaching.com/new-look-new-life/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Training Camp](https://emc3coaching.com/training-camp/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Olive Garden Theology](https://emc3coaching.com/olive-garden-theology/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Promote Thyself (Seriously)](https://emc3coaching.com/promote-thyself-seriously/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Believe in Your Team](https://emc3coaching.com/believe-in-your-team/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Give Where It Matters](https://emc3coaching.com/give-where-it-matters/) - by Eddie Pipkin I was on at a complex of hiking and mountain biking trails a couple of weeks ago, and down by the informational kiosk at the start of the route, I was delighted to see what looked for all the world like a bright orange parking meter (!) but turned out to be - [Perspective Shift](https://emc3coaching.com/perspective-shift/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Seemingly Ranch](https://emc3coaching.com/seemingly-ranch/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Mattering Matters](https://emc3coaching.com/mattering-matters/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Underpromise and Overdeliver](https://emc3coaching.com/underpromise-and-overdeliver/) - By Eddie Pipkin - [Wise Connections](https://emc3coaching.com/wise-connections/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Complications](https://emc3coaching.com/complications/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Scalped](https://emc3coaching.com/scalped/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Losing Your Mojo](https://emc3coaching.com/losing-your-mojo/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Bah Postbug](https://emc3coaching.com/bah-postbug/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Homegrown Christmas](https://emc3coaching.com/homegrown-christmas/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Optimal Gifting](https://emc3coaching.com/optimal-gifting/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Polyrhythm](https://emc3coaching.com/polyrhythm/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Polyrhythm Part 2](https://emc3coaching.com/polyrhythm-part-2/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Who's Got It Better Than Us?](https://emc3coaching.com/whos-got-it-better-than-us/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Trending Now](https://emc3coaching.com/trending-now/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Introvert Economy](https://emc3coaching.com/introvert-economy/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Love and Death](https://emc3coaching.com/love-and-death/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Hype Man](https://emc3coaching.com/hype-man/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Peanut Butter Cup Ministry](https://emc3coaching.com/peanut-butter-cup-ministry/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Icing on the Cake](https://emc3coaching.com/icing-on-the-cake/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Magnificent Ministry Milieus](https://emc3coaching.com/magnificent-ministry-milieus/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Places to Play](https://emc3coaching.com/places-to-play/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Staple Girl](https://emc3coaching.com/staple-girl/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Schlepping to Glory](https://emc3coaching.com/schlepping-to-glory/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [T.E.A.M.](https://emc3coaching.com/t-e-a-m/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Caddie Gratitude](https://emc3coaching.com/caddie-gratitude/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Sticking with the Magic](https://emc3coaching.com/sticking-with-the-magic/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Don't Be the Bully](https://emc3coaching.com/dont-be-the-bully/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Find Your Melissa](https://emc3coaching.com/find-your-melissa/) - by Eddie Pipkin - [Switch - Book Review](https://emc3coaching.com/switch-book-review/) - September 9, 2014 By Phil Maynard Chip and Dan Heath, in this very excellent book about leading change, provide amazing insights into how to connect with both our rational and emotional processes to accomplish change. In the first part of the book, the authors introduce the psychology of change using an analogy developed by - [3 Ways to Connect People to Jesus (and Your Church)](https://emc3coaching.com/3-ways-to-connect-people-to-jesus-and-your-church/) - July 14, 2014 By Phil Maynard I’ve rarely met a church where there wasn’t a desire to introduce more people to Jesus. Yet, the number one issue as I work with churches (new church plants and existing congregations) is how to reach more people for Jesus. Basically there are three options. First, is what - [Leadership Doesn’t Happen in a Vacuum](https://emc3coaching.com/leadership-doesnt-happen-in-a-vacuum/) - March 5, 2014 By Phil Maynard Leadership doesn’t happen in a vacuum. There are several factors that will help determine whether the leaders you select will be successful. This means that there are several things churches and pastors can do to create an environment that empowers leaders. Let me make some suggestions: Responsibility: leaders need - [You Know It's Time for a Funeral When...](https://emc3coaching.com/you-know-its-time-for-a-funeral-when/) - September 16, 2013 By Phil Maynard You would think that church people would be good at funerals, but we aren’t. It seems instead that when it comes to programs and special events it’s, “Once done, always done,” or, as a staff member once quipped, “The show must go on!” But why? Why must the first - [Empowering Others… Why Church Leadership Isn’t Working and How to Fix It! (Part 3 of 3)](https://emc3coaching.com/empowering-others-why-church-leadership-isnt-working-and-how-to-fix-it-part-3-of-3/) - February 20, 2013 By Phil Maynard I think one of the most common misunderstandings about leadership in the church is that the primary job of the leader is to lead (defined as be in charge, make all the decisions, tell people what to do, think up every new ministry focus etc.) This is not what - [Book Summary of "Switch - How to Change Things When Change is Hard"](https://emc3coaching.com/book-summary-of-switch-how-to-change-things-when-change-is-hard/) - February 20, 2013 By Phil Maynard Chip and Dan Heath, in this very excellent book about leading change, provide amazing insights into how to connect with both our rational and emotional processes to accomplish change. In the first part of the book, the authors introduce the psychology of change using an analogy developed by psychologist ## Pages - [Home](https://emc3coaching.com/) - Register Here Deepen your understanding about discipleship Explore how the dimensions of discipleship are lived out Develop a plan for growth as a disciple Discover how to disciple someone else Get Your Copy EMC3 is a leader in supporting the development of healthy, vital, effective congregations. We offer training, coaching, and consulting, and resourcing services - [Discipleship Coaching](https://emc3coaching.com/discipleship-coaching-2025/) - Support congregation members in their spiritual growth Help fulfill the Church’s mission of making disciples Equip congregation members to live out their faith in the local community Help disciples make the shift from knowing about Jesus to becoming like Jesus This equipping process includes 12 contact hours, equipping participants to use effective coaching skills, assessment - [Discipleship Pathway Coaching Training](https://emc3coaching.com/discipleship-pathway-coaching/) - Partner with local congregations to design a clear pathway toward maturity as a disciple Clearly articulate and communicate a vision for maturing discipleship Design a process that takes into account where people are in their discipleship journey Create the relational infrastructure to support development of disciples at different points on their journeys Practice the Wesleyan - [Discipleship Coaching Training 2025](https://emc3coaching.com/discipleship-coaching-1/) - Become a Certified Discipleship Coach Support congregation members in their spiritual growth Help fulfill the Church’s mission of making disciples Equip congregation members to live out their faith in the local community Train and certify discipleship coaches for your congregationThis training includes 12 contact hours, equipping participants to use effective coaching skills, assessment tools, and - [Registration](https://emc3coaching.com/discipleship-coaching-registration/) - [gravityform id="24" title="true"] - [Contact](https://emc3coaching.com/contact/) - Let us know how we can serve you today. We work hard to empower congregations, so we are always happy to hear from you to learn how we can help you. If you have any questions at all, please feel free to give us a call or fill out the form on this page. – Phil - [ENGAGE! Resources FREE Webinar Registration](https://emc3coaching.com/engage-webinar-registration/) - For questions or additional information, email coachdrphil@gmail.com - [FREE Webinar Confirmation](https://emc3coaching.com/free-webinar-confirmation/) - We have received your registration for our FREE Webinar on TUESDAY, 8/20 @ 1:00 pm (CT)/2:00 pm (ET) and look forward to seeing you on ZOOM! The ZOOM link for this event is included below; please use the passcode "4321" to enter: FREE Webinar: ENGAGE! Resourcing August 20, 2024, 1:00 PM Central/2:00 pm Eastern Time - [MissionInsite Webinar Resource](https://emc3coaching.com/mission-insite-webinar-resource/) - Thank you for participating in the MissionInsite webinar! You can download your FREE resource by clicking the cover image below. For more great resources, be sure to check out our EMC3 Store! To get in touch or be added to our mailing list, fill out the contact form below: [gravityform id=”11″ title=”false” description=”false”] - [Blog](https://emc3coaching.com/blog/) - Cruise Control Uncategorized Cruise Controlby Eddie Pipkin Image by neufal54 from Pixabay Apologies if you eagerly awaited the arrival of this blog last week, because there wasn’t one. I was on a cruise with the family, and [...]Eddie Pipkin2025-10-16T09:01:09-04:00October 16th, 2025|Read More This Old House Uncategorized This Old Houseby Eddie Pipkin Image by Александра from - [FREE EMC3 Resources](https://emc3coaching.com/free-resources/) - Check Out These FREE EMC3 Resources Get access to even more resources with our Leader Resource Membership here! Acts 1:7-8 Exercise Behavioral Covenants Church Life Cycle Community Interviews Demographic Survey Disciple Train Graphic Discipleship Survey Facilities Assessment FORM Framework Generosity Survey Hospitality Survey Membership Covenant Mind Mapping Template Ministry Assessment Missional Vital Signs Mystery Worship - [](https://emc3coaching.com/all-resources/) - [the_grid name="General Resources"] - [About EMC3](https://emc3coaching.com/about-emc3/) - Why The heart of the matter We believe that every congregation has the potential to make a Kingdom difference and that every disciple has the potential to grow toward maturity. What we are missing, in many cases, is a clear pathway toward living into this potential. Our passion is helping disciples to grow, which inevitably - [The Team](https://emc3coaching.com/the-team/) - [extpsc id=”4396″] - [Our Reach](https://emc3coaching.com/our-reach/) - 0States0Regions0Churches0Events0ParticipantsMap EMC3’s Reach (pins represent level of support provided in various areas) [google_maps id=”1211″] In addition, EMC3Coaching has supported the New York Conference of the United Church of Christ; the Missouri and Florida UMC Lay Servant Ministries: and Path 1 (New Church Starts) of Discipleship Ministries. - [Discover the Possibilities](https://emc3coaching.com/services/regional/discover-the-possibilities/) - Discovering the Possibilities The Discovering the Possibilities process is being used by Conference leadership across the country to help congregations understand what it takes to do effective ministry in their community. It is a tool that is not limited by geographical boundaries (e.g. New England, Virginia, SW Texas, Florida, Minnesota). The principles are universal, and - [Congregational Consultations](https://emc3coaching.com/congregational-consultations/) - General Consultation Services Excellence in Ministry Coaching has a staff representing decades of experience in congregational development. Some have served on Conference Staff as Congregational Developers. Some are authors resourcing churches in congregational development. Some have specialty areas of expertise (e.g. worship design, building discipleship processes, new church planting). - [Worship Design](https://emc3coaching.com/worship-design/) - Worship Design It is still true that the vast majority of people come into the church through the front door of the worship experience. It is also true that the worship experience is the greatest opportunity for inviting disciples to take their next steps toward maturity. Our coaches/consultants bring a wealth of experience in worship - [Discipleship Process](https://emc3coaching.com/services/regional/discipleship-process/) - Discipleship Process Even though our churches exist to make disciples of Jesus Christ, most congregations struggle to build an intentional process that supports the development of maturing disciples. Using the approach of Membership to Discipleship, our coaches guide your team through a step-by-step process of designing a comprehensive system for discipleship. While the step-by-step process - [Intentional Discipleship](https://emc3coaching.com/membership-to-discipleship/) - Intentional Discipleship Workshop: This five-part workshop can be done in either a one-day, six-hour format or a two-day ten-hour format. The latter provides the opportunity for discipleship teams to process the materials more thoroughly and to flesh out a plan for building a discipleship process in their specific context. -View Flyer Summary Get - [Fellowship to Hospitality](https://emc3coaching.com/services/regional/fellowship-to-hospitality/) - Fellowship to Hospitality Workshop This four-part workshop, presented in a one-day, six-hour format, helps congregational teams process four dimensions of hospitality and consider how to build an effective system: Interpersonal hospitality (building relationships within the church) Intentional hospitality (welcoming those who come to church) Invitational hospitality (reaching out to those in the community) Incarnational hospitality - [Connect](https://emc3coaching.com/connect/) - Connect Workshop Imagine congregations being equipped to build authentic relationships, engage their neighborhoods, connect with their communities, and engage people through service. That’s the focus of the Connect! workshop. The workshop sessions include: Make a friend, Be a friend Love Your Neighbors Circle of Influence Engaging Your Community Connecting through Service In a one-day, six-hour - [Shift](https://emc3coaching.com/services/regional/shift/) - Shifts Network – General Description The core resource for this process is the book Shift 2.0: Helping Congregations Back Into the Game of Effective Ministry. The Shift 2.0 book is supplemented by an Activation Guide that includes a framework for processing the information presented in Shift 2.0. The guide also includes additional information and tools - [Workshops](https://emc3coaching.com/services/local-church/workshops/) - Membership to Discipleship This five-part workshop can be done in either a one-day, six-hour format or a two-day ten-hour format. The latter provides the opportunity for discipleship teams to process the materials more thoroughly and to flesh out a plan for building a discipleship process in their specific context. Learn More Discipleship Coaching Training This - [Membership to Discipleship](https://emc3coaching.com/services/local-church/workshops/membership-to-discipleship/) - Membership to Discipleship Workshop: This five-part workshop can be done in either a one-day, six-hour format or a two-day ten-hour format. The latter provides the opportunity for discipleship teams to process the materials more thoroughly and to flesh out a plan for building a discipleship process in their specific context. -View Flyer Discipleship Process - [Discipleship Coaching Training](https://emc3coaching.com/services/local-church/workshops/discipleship-coaching-training/) - Discipleship Coaching Training You will: Understand the distinctions between coaching and other partnerships Develop a basic coaching skill set Become proficient with a coaching model for discipleship coaching Learn to utilize a discipleship assessment tool for working with disciples in your congregation! This training is designed for congregations hoping to strengthen the process of developing - [Shift](https://emc3coaching.com/services/local-church/transformational-process/shift/) - Shifts Workshop Shifts Workshop Format: The training portion of the Shifts Network is offered as a separate 2-day workshop. This is a great way to introduce both clergy and congregations to healthy practices for effective ministry and includes an overview of best practices for: Hospitality Worship Discipleship Service Generosity The core resource for this process - [Coaching](https://emc3coaching.com/services/local-church/transformational-process/coaching/) - Coaching Congregations all across the country are discovering the value of partnering with a trained coach who can help them discover their potential and the ways forward to more effective and fruitful ministry. Coaches don’t tell you what to do (that is consulting). They help you figure out who you as a congregation are called - [Real Discipleship Survey](https://emc3coaching.com/services/real-discipleship-survey-3/) - Real Discipleship Survey The Real Discipleship Survey is an instrument designed to support the development of maturing disciples at both the personal and congregational levels. It measures the level of maturity in each of six dimensions of discipleship: A Life of Worship A Life of Hospitality A Life Opening to Jesus A Life Obeying Jesus - [Free Chapter of Shift](https://emc3coaching.com/free-chapter-of-shift/) - Fill out the form below to get your FREE chapter of the Shift Book - [Connect Chapter](https://emc3coaching.com/connect-chapter/) - Get Your FREE Chapter! In Connect!, Phil turns everything we have ever learned about how to do faith sharing upside down. It is not top down information sharing. It is not bottom up catechism learning. It is putting ourselves in the right places for person to person building of relationships, for heart to heart making - [Test Page](https://emc3coaching.com/test-page/) - [test](https://emc3coaching.com/test/) - [Newsletter Thank You](https://emc3coaching.com/newsletter-thank-you/) - You have been successfully registered to receive our blogs via email. - [Newsletter Signup](https://emc3coaching.com/newsletter-signup/) - Blog Newsletter Signup below to receive our new blog posts via email. First Name * Email * - [Connect Book Video](https://emc3coaching.com/connect-book-video/) - Choose one of the CONNECT! Books below to learn more or to purchase! CONNECT! Creating a Culture of Relationships That Matter CONNECT! For Individuals & Small Groups - [Registration](https://emc3coaching.com/registration/) - To register with a registration code, fill the form out below. If you are already a user and just want to redeem your code, click here. - [Exodus 18 Leadership Initiative](https://emc3coaching.com/exodus18/) - The Exodus 18 Leadership Initiative is an on-line ministry training devoted to equipping leaders (clergy and laity) in local congregations for the development of healthy church systems, practical leadership skills, ministry skills, and personal growth. Participants will be engaged in skill development and hands-on practical applications. Like the biblical character of Jethro who engaged Moses - [Shift Training Opportunities](https://emc3coaching.com/shift-leadership-training/) - What if you or the churches in your District/Conference knew the best practices for building healthy church systems? What difference could that make in creating maturing disciples, reaching new people, designing engaging worship, and meeting real needs in the surrounding community? Bring the Shift training to your church or District or Conference…start a conversation about - [Coach Training](https://emc3coaching.com/coach-training/) - Becoming a Coaching Leader - [Thank You](https://emc3coaching.com/thank-you-2/) - TO GET STARTED l You can visit : https://emc3coaching.com/exodus18/ Then click on the image/thumbnail of the course you would like to take or click on the course below Click here for: Fellowship to Hospitality Click here for: FIT for Ministry Click here for: Coaching Foundations Click here for: Missional Alignment - [Intentional Discipleship Virtual Workshop](https://emc3coaching.com/intentional-discipleship/) - Intentional Discipleship Virtual Workshop January 26, 2019 10am to 3pm (EST) *45-minute lunch break at noon Join Dr. Phil Maynard for this first-ever offering of the Intentional Discipleship Workshop virtually (Zoom video conference). Learn how to structure a discipleship process that actually grows disciples; provide relationships that are appropriate for each phase of the journey; - [FREE Webinar Registration](https://emc3coaching.com/webinar-registration/) - [](https://emc3coaching.com/3964-2/) - [Thank you page (Resources)](https://emc3coaching.com/thank-you-page-resources/) - Choose your resource: Acts 1:7-8 Exercise Behavioral Covenants Community Interviews Demographic Survey Disciple Train Graphic Discipleship Survey Facilities Assessment FORM Framework Generosity Survey Hospitality Survey Life Cycle Resource Membership Covenant Mind-Mapping Template Ministry Assessment Missional Vital Signs Mystery Worship Audit Neighbor Exercise Personal Timeline Questions for Clarity Service Survey SMART Goal Template Wave Graphic Website - [Blog Sign-Up/Free Connect ISG Book](https://emc3coaching.com/free-connect-book/) - [RE: Relate, Recommit, Relaunch Registration](https://emc3coaching.com/re-registration/) - REsources Six hours of equipping via webinar, two hours of individual team coaching, workbook, and access to webinar recordings Investment $500 per church team of six people for churches under 100 in AWA $650 per church team of eight people for churches 101-300 in - [RE: Registration Response (under 100)](https://emc3coaching.com/re-response-6/) - Thank you for registering for RE: Relate, Recommit, Relaunch! Your team will receive six hours of equipping via webinar, two hours of individual team coaching, workbooks, and access to webinar recordings. We will launch on Saturday, May 9th at 11:00 am (Eastern)/8:00 am (Pacific). - [RE: Response 8](https://emc3coaching.com/re-response-8/) - Thank you for registering for RE: Relate, Recommit, Relaunch! Your team will receive six hours of equipping via webinar, two hours of individual team coaching, workbooks, and access to webinar recordings. We will launch on Saturday, May 9th at 11:00 am (Eastern)/8:00 am (Pacific). - [RE: Response 10](https://emc3coaching.com/re-response-10/) - Thank you for registering for RE: Relate, Recommit, Relaunch! Your team will receive six hours of equipping via webinar, two hours of individual team coaching, workbooks, and access to webinar recordings. We will launch on Saturday, May 9th at 11:00 am (Eastern)/8:00 am (Pacific). - [Spiritual Wellness Journey Workshop](https://emc3coaching.com/spiritual-wellness-journey-workshop/) - Spiritual Wellness Journey Workshop Do you feel like your connection with God is a mile wide and an inch deep? Have you struggled to discover meaningful ways to sustain your spiritual health? In this workshop, participants will gain a better understanding of spiritual wellness. They will assess their own spiritual wellness and identify their God-shaped - [Spiritual Wellness Practitioner Program](https://emc3coaching.com/spiritual-wellness-practitioner-program/) - Spiritual Wellness Practitioner Program A Spiritual Wellness Practitioner is: Trained to understand what spiritual wellness entails and what cultivates spiritual health. Equipped to come alongside of individuals through various methodologies in order that they may accurately assess a person’s spiritual wellness and formulate an action plan for growth. Educated on the multitude of ways - [7D](https://emc3coaching.com/7d/) - [7 Dimensions: A Coaching Approach to Congregational Development](https://emc3coaching.com/7-dimensions/) - A transformational coaching approach, partnering with your congregation, to develop healthy, growing, effective ministry in your context. Discover all the ways to develop your congregation that you wished they had taught you in seminary! Drawing from 30 years of successful ministry experience, interactions with hundreds of churches, and plethora of tried and true resources, 7 - [Discipleship Pathway](https://emc3coaching.com/discipleship-pathway/) - Resources to support the Discipleship Pathway: A brief introduction to making the shift from making members to making disciples. Readers are introduced to the idea of a journey to maturity with phases of development; the appropriate use of resources for each phase of development; intentional training and accountability. A great read for leadership and discipleship - [7D Brochure](https://emc3coaching.com/7d-brochure/) - [Leadership Skill Builders](https://emc3coaching.com/leadership-skill-builders/) - *Price includes permission to print for use in your local context. Purchase individual units here. WANT AN EVEN BETTER DEAL? CHECK OUT OUR MEMBERSHIP SITE, WHICH INCLUDES ALL LEADERSHIP SKILL BUILDERS AND SO MUCH MORE HERE! Coaching/Relational Skills As disciples we are called not just to know about the love of Jesus but to practice - [Virtual Training Events](https://emc3coaching.com/virtual-training-events/) - The following workshops are available for presentation by EMC3 Coaching staff or Facilitation Partners for training within your Conference or District. Several United Methodist Conferences are using/have used these materials with very positive results. A recent trend in their use is the equipping of “Lighthouse” (or equivalent) churches, providing a safe space for those seeking - [7 Dimensions](https://emc3coaching.com/7dimensions/) - After working with hundreds of congregations around the country it has become clear that there is a wide gap between training provided in seminary and the practical knowledge and skills needed to effectively lead a local congregation. 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