The Church Leadership Pulse

Today's episode covers three stories from church leadership:Joni Lamb (1960–2026) — Co-founder and president of Daystar Television Network passed away at 65. She and husband Marcus built Daystar into one of the largest Christian TV networks in the world, reaching an estimated 100 million households. A genuine pioneer remembered for decades of faithful dedication.Wheaton College Investigation (Part 3) — An ongoing investigation reports that President Phil Ryken allegedly failed to act against a staff member accused of abuse, who then relocated to Turkey where the abuse reportedly continued. A significant story circulating widely in evangelical circles.Resource: Cultural Attrition — A piece using a military analogy to describe how church culture erodes gradually — when "who we are and how we do things here" drifts silently from one generation of leaders to the next. Worth a slow read if you're building or rebuilding a team.Church Administrator Summit — 200+ church administrators, executive pastors, and ministry business officers from 26 states gathered in Dallas for a two-day summit on sustainable ministry leadership.The closing challenge: In a culture that rewards the viral moment, the most significant things most leaders build are built slowly — through a thousand unremarkable days where you just keep going.Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter: churchleadershipradar.comHealthy Church Staff Podcast: healthychurchstaff.com

Today on Church Leadership Radar:Kanakuk Kamps leadership transition: Joe White, the face of Kanakuk for 40+ years, steps down as CEO effective August 31 — and the real question is whether this long-troubled organization will build real accountability, or repeat old patterns.Pastor apologizes for UFO briefing claim: Alabama pastor Larry Ragland publicly admits he 'conflated' his opinions with facts after a U.S. Congressman disputed his account — and the bigger lesson is about epistemic humility for every leader with a platform.Russell Moore on the infinite scroll and hell: A must-read piece framing social media's endless feed as 'a counterfeit heaven' — with powerful theological language for anyone addressing technology and spiritual formation.National Day of Prayer: 75th anniversary — an estimated 60,000+ events across all 50 states unified around 'Glorify God Among the Nations.'Sources:Kanakuk Kamps — Joe White CEO transition announcementAlabama pastor Larry Ragland public apology — UFO briefing claimRussell Moore — The Infinite Scroll and the Doctrine of HellNational Day of Prayer — 75th anniversary, theme: Glorify God Among the NationsSubscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter for daily updates. Also check out the Healthy Church Staff Podcast.

On today's episode, Ted Rhoades sits in for Todd with three stories worth your attention:Dane Ortlund & Naperville Presbyterian: An Illinois judge rules the church retaliated against a female operations director — and what that means for every church with staff and HR processes.Southern Baptist 2025 Data: Attendance up 4%, baptisms up 5% (5 straight years of gains) — but membership down 3% to 12.3 million. What does the gap between showing up and formally joining tell us about discipleship culture?Pastor Wellbeing Research: New data shows pastors have higher emotional resilience than in years — but job satisfaction has hit a decade low. Called but not satisfied is a different problem than burnout, and it needs a different response.The Bright Spot: Jordan McCullough, 27-year-old worship director at Zeal Church in Murfreesboro, TN, heads into the American Idol Season 24 finale — and all three finalists are openly Christian.Takeaway: Does your church's HR process protect the institution, or the person with less power? Clear processes are a form of care.📧 Subscribe to the newsletter🎙️ Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Today's episode covers four stories shaping church leadership right now:Is the megachurch era ending? High-profile leadership crises and shifting attendance patterns are putting the multi-site, high-charisma model under real stress. What is your church built on?Ligonier Ministries donor concern: The ministry's chief academic officer has departed from both Ligonier and Reformation Bible College — and was excommunicated from the connected church — in the same week. The ministry says these are unrelated. A real-time case study in institutional credibility.Are corporate performance reviews failing your church staff? Most churches borrowed evaluation frameworks from the business world. A circulating piece breaks down what's going wrong and offers a better framework built for ministry teams.Iranian underground church: As regional conflict has shaken communities, Iranian Christians report unprecedented openness to the gospel. A remarkable story of courage and open doors.This week's reflection: What's your communication plan when something significant happens on your staff? Transparency builds trust long before a crisis arrives.📬 Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter🎙️ Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Today on Church Leadership Radar:Sam Allberry steps down — A well-known evangelical author and apologist resigns from his ministry roles after disclosing an inappropriate relationship. What this means for the organizations involved, and how you can pastor your congregation through the uncertainty.AI and the church — New survey data shows 6 in 10 churchgoers are worried about AI's growing influence on Christianity. Is your congregation having this conversation?Young men returning to church — The trend is real, but new research asks the harder question: what do they actually believe when they walk through the door? The discipleship window is open.Good news — A Kansas church hands out $4,000 in free gas cards, no strings attached. Making the Gospel visible.Hosted by Ted Rhoades (in for Todd today).---📬 Subscribe to the newsletter | 🎙️ Healthy Church Staff Podcast

It's the Saturday Week in Review with Ted Rhoades — Todd's AI twin brother filling in while Todd has family time.This week on Church Leadership Radar:The Clergy Act (HR 227) passed the House 350–5 — for the first time, clergy who opted out of Social Security would have a 5-year window to opt back in. It now heads to the Senate.Craig Groeschel opened up about his personal battle with anxiety — and why vulnerability from leaders at that level matters for church culture everywhere.Christianity Today asked whether the church is ready to enter "the guys' group chat" — young men are returning to church, but are we creating environments where they stay?Russell Moore published 8 things he's learned about making major life decisions — theologically grounded and practically essential for leaders navigating transitions.Bright Spot: Hillvue Heights Church in Bowling Green, KY wrapped their 20th annual Reach Week with free oil changes for single moms and widows — 15 professions of faith, 9 baptisms. The church at its absolute best.Source Links:• Christianity Today — Russell Moore on Major Life Decisions• Chemistry Staffing — Pastoral Voice & News Cycles• Craig Groeschel / Life.Church---📧 Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter🎙️ Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Your daily catch-up on what matters in church leadership. Today's episode covers:Craig Groeschel on anxiety — The Life.Church senior pastor opens up about his personal battle with anxiety and how Scripture became his lifeline. Why leader vulnerability is actually culture-building.Staff health in decline — A new assessment shows church staff in the "healthy" category has fallen from 82% to 75% since 2023. What the slow leak looks like — and why quiet fades are more dangerous than dramatic burnouts.AI in churches — A Barna/Pushpay study of 1,300+ church leaders found most pastors use AI monthly, but only 5% of churches have formal AI guidelines. Why this is a pastoral identity question, not just a tech question.Bright Spot: Re-Hope & the FIFA World Cup — Missouri Baptist ministry mobilizing to combat human trafficking ahead of the World Cup in Kansas City this summer.Source Links:Craig Groeschel on Anxiety — Life.Church OpenHealthy Church Staff AssessmentBarna/Pushpay AI in Churches StudyMissouri Baptist Convention — Re-Hope Ministry📬 Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter🎙️ Also listen to the Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Today on Church Leadership Radar with Ted Rhoades (filling in for Todd):Camp Mystic Tragedy Goes Before Texas Legislature — The director of Camp Mystic testified before a state legislative committee, apologizing for the deaths of 27 campers and counselors in a flood. A sobering reminder for every ministry that works with youth to revisit their emergency plans, warning systems, and decision-making protocols before a crisis hits.Is Your Leadership Voice Getting Drowned Out? — When ministry leaders default to constant cultural commentary, they erode the trust that makes their voice matter. A practical framework for when to speak, when to stay quiet, and how to protect your leadership voice.Russell Moore on Major Life Decisions — Eight hard-won lessons on making the biggest decisions in life and ministry. Grounded in real crossroads Moore has navigated publicly and privately. Worth bookmarking if you're in a season of transition.Good News: 20 Years of Free Oil Changes — Hill-vue Heights Church in Bowling Green, KY wrapped their 20th annual outreach week offering free oil changes for single mothers and widows. This year: 15 professions of faith and 9 baptisms. The church at its absolute best.Practical Takeaway: Find 30 minutes this week. Pull out your emergency plan, walk through it with your team, and make sure everyone knows their role when minutes matter.Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter for daily insights delivered to your inbox.Also check out the Healthy Church Staff Podcast with Todd Rhoades.

Your daily catch-up on what matters in church leadership. Today's edition covers:Ben Sasse, former U.S. senator, diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer — and what he said about faith on national televisionKing Charles III becomes the first sitting British monarch to address a joint session of U.S. Congress — and explicitly called his Christian faith a "firm anchor and daily inspiration"New research shows most pastors underestimate the political diversity of their congregations by as much as 50%Victory Beyond the Cup: 34,000+ churches equipped to reach FIFA World Cup 2026 visitors with the gospelSources & Further Reading:Ben Sasse interview on faith and terminal diagnosisKing Charles III addresses U.S. CongressResearch: Pastors underestimate congregation political diversityVictory Beyond the Cup — FIFA World Cup church outreach initiativeSubscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter for daily intel.Also check out the Healthy Church Staff Podcast.

Your daily briefing on what matters in church leadership — in under 4 minutes.Today's stories:Is the Gen Z revival real? Barna CEO David Kinnaman and Carey Nieuwhof take a hard look at what the data actually says — and the picture is more nuanced than the headlines suggest.Church attendance is up for the first time in decades. New research from the Hartford Institute for Religion Research shows median congregation size grew from 65 (2020) to approximately 70 today — the first uptick in decades of decline.Why first-time guests don't come back. Thom Rainer's key insight: "People do not return to general warmth. They return to specific relationships."Good news: 17-year-old Madison Andrews wrote 17 handwritten letters to church leaders across Arkansas asking for a chance to preach — and sparked a multi-generational worship service being talked about statewide.Source Links:Barna Research — Gen Z and Church EngagementCarey Nieuwhof — Revival Data AnalysisHartford Institute for Religion Research — Congregation Size StudyThom Rainer — Why Guests Don't Return---📧 Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter🎙️ Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Today on Church Leadership Radar: Life.Church remains silent four days after allegations surfaced about lead pastor Craig Groeschel — and the silence is becoming the story. The passing of Robert Tebow, the quiet missionary who shaped Tim Tebow's faith. And new PRRI data shows the Gen Z religion gap is widening — with a surprising gender reversal.Stories covered:Life.Church / Craig Groeschel toxic culture and assault allegations (ongoing silence)Robert Tebow, missionary, dies at 78 — father of Tim TebowPRRI: Gen Z religion gap growing; young men now slightly more religious than young womenBright Spot: Grace Evangelical (Galloway, OH) — Gift of Grace Aid ships 335 containers to Ukrainian refugees, assists 1,500 locallySources & Further Reading:Ministry Watch — Life.Church story coverageChristianity TodayPRRI — American Values AtlasSubscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter | Listen to the Healthy Church Staff Podcast

This week's ministry headlines: Gen Z gender gap in faith is closing — but not the way you think. Russell Moore's sharp take on 'casinofication' in church culture. River West Church in Oregon models radical transparency after pastor resignation. And a new 2026 federal tax provision your stewardship team needs to know about now.Stories covered this week:Gen Z & Faith Data: Gallup reports 42% of men under 30 call religion 'very important' — but PRRI data shows both genders are disengaging at similar rates. The gender gap is closing for the wrong reasons.Russell Moore in Christianity Today: "Against the Casinofication of the Church" — a challenging read on whether churches are forming people or just hooking them.River West Church, Oregon: Lead pastor Adam McMurray resigned after an affair. The church responded with radical transparency across all services — a model worth studying.XPastor Tax Provision: New 2026 federal tax incentive for charitable giving — especially relevant for donors who take the standard deduction. Share this with your stewardship team.Bright Spot — Grace Evangelical, Galloway, Ohio: Outreach Magazine profiles their sustained work with Ukrainian refugee families — slow, relationship-driven ministry at its best.Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter for daily intel. Also check out the Healthy Church Staff Podcast.

Today on Church Leadership Radar:Benny Hinn Ministries — A Texas judge freezes a ministry bank account over $160K in unpaid debts to a marketing firm. What church leaders can learn about financial discipline and accountability structures.River West Church — An Oregon church models transparency after their lead pastor resigns following an affair. Why honesty in a crisis builds lasting trust — and how to build that culture before you need it.AI & Community — Millions are turning to AI companions for connection. What the church uniquely offers that no chatbot ever will: embodied community, genuine presence, and relationships that actually cost something.The Bright Spot — Grace Evangelical Church in Galloway, Ohio quietly builds a multi-layered ministry to support Ukrainian refugee families with housing, language help, and long-term community integration.Links from today's episode:Benny Hinn Ministries court filing coverage - MinistryWatchRiver West Church transparency story📬 Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter🎙️ Also check out the Healthy Church Staff Podcast with Todd Rhoades

Today on Church Leadership Radar, Ted Rhoades (Todd's AI twin brother) covers three important stories for church leaders:AME Church Retirement Fund Settlement: The African Methodist Episcopal Church is on track to recover over $44 million in lost clergy retirement funds — a wake-up call for every church about financial accountability and long-term care for ministry staff.Russell Moore — "Against the Casino-fication of the Church": Moore uses the psychology of the gambling industry to examine whether churches have let the pressure for engagement and emotional highs start shaping the wrong things.Empathy Burnout in Ministry: A closer look at the specific kind of depletion that affects your most empathetic ministry staff — and what leaders can do about it before it's too late.The Bright Spot: On Good Friday, the Miami Rescue Mission and Broward Outreach Centers mobilized 200+ volunteers to serve nearly 2,000 homeless guests — and 40 people entered a life-change program that day.Resources:Christianity TodayRussell Moore's SubstackMiami Rescue MissionSubscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter | Listen to the Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Your daily catch-up on what matters in church leadership.In today's episode:Sarah Jakes Roberts (co-pastor, Potter's House Dallas) fractures her neck in a trampoline accident — and leads with remarkable transparency through the crisisNew Lifeway research: only 10% of pastors are regular AI users, while congregations are already ahead of themBellevue Baptist Church in Memphis goes public about a terminated employee facing abuse allegations — a model of timely transparencyKids Hope USA: church volunteers, one hour a week, changing lives in 764 schools nationwideKey takeaway: Vulnerability in leadership is not a liability — it's one of the most trust-building things you can do.Sources & Links:Sarah Jakes Roberts health updateLifeway Research: Pastors and AIBellevue Baptist ChurchKids Hope USA📬 Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter🎙️ Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Your daily catch-up on what matters in church leadership.Today's Stories:Craig Groeschel on Hitting a Wall: Craig Groeschel appeared on the Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast alongside his therapist, Dr. Wayne Chappelle, for a remarkably honest conversation about burnout, getting help, and what pastoral health actually looks like.The Silent Shift (Thom Rainer): Thom Rainer names the quiet drift of committed, long-time members who start attending less without any warning or conversation — and gives leaders practical ways to read the early signals before it becomes a crisis.Texas Church Camps Facing Closure: Dozens of church camps across Texas are facing potential shutdown after new flood-plain safety regulations took effect — a heads-up for churches planning summer retreats.Good News: A 19-year-old Chick-fil-A employee named Jaydon Sintron returned a customer's wallet containing $10,000 in cash and turned down the reward — saying it was simply what Jesus would do.Source Links:Craig Groeschel on the Nieuwhof Leadership PodcastThom Rainer's Blog — The Silent Shift📩 Subscribe to the newsletter | 🎙️ Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Your daily catch-up on what matters in church leadership.Today's Stories:A Baptist congregation in Ukraine struck by a Russian missile during Sunday prayer — nine killed, including a pastorLeadership transitions as stewardship moments — a fresh framing for navigating pastoral handoffsWhen administrative tasks bury your ministry calling — and how to reclaim the right workFort Graham Baptist in Whitney, Texas: a community rallies after fire destroys their buildingKey Takeaway: The question isn't "how do I do less" — it's "am I doing what only I can do?"Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter for daily insights delivered to your inbox.Also check out the Healthy Church Staff Podcast with Todd Rhoades.

This week's Saturday Ministry Week in Review covers the stories shaping church leadership right now — from the growing AI adoption gap in churches, to what Crossroads Church's handling of Brian Tome's suspension shows us about accountability, to practical insights on retaining your best staff and bridging generational divides.This Week's Stories:60% of church leaders use AI tools, but only 5% of churches have an AI policy — and Anthropic is seeking Christian leader input on AI ethicsBrian Tome placed on leave from Crossroads Church following internal investigation — what the board's response models for church accountabilityWhy your best staff members are already looking for another job — and what actually keeps great people aroundBridging the generational gap on your church staff teamChristianity Today: A deconstruction story that challenges how the church responds to hurtBright Spot: A small Wisconsin church opens its kitchen — and becomes the heart of its communityResources Mentioned:Carey Nieuwhof Podcast with Jon Acuff on AI-proofing your influenceChristianity Today — Church hurt and deconstructionThe Church Leadership Radar is hosted by Ted Rhoades, filling in for Todd Rhoades.📬 Subscribe to the newsletter at toddrhoades.com🎙️ Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Your daily briefing on what matters in church leadership.In today's episode:Crisis Response Done Right: A youth pastor in Monroe County, Georgia was arrested this week — and the church's response was instructive. They cooperated fully with investigators, sealed the office, and made the campus available to the FBI. Every church needs a written crisis response protocol.Your Best Staff Member Is Already Looking: Todd's been writing this week about why top performers leave — and why most leaders never see it coming. The best teams aren't built by reacting to exit interviews.AI-Proofing Your Influence: Jon Acuff joined Carey Nieuwhof to talk about procrastination and what it means to make your human leadership irreplaceable in an AI world.Good News: A small United Methodist church in rural Wisconsin opened their kitchen instead of their doors — and became the heartbeat of their town.Source Links:Church Leadership Radar NewsletterCarey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast — Jon Acuff on AI-Proofing Your InfluenceMonroe County arrest coverageSubscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter for daily insights.Also check out the Healthy Church Staff Podcast with Todd Rhoades.

In this episode:The AI Policy Gap: 60% of church leaders are using AI tools (ChatGPT, AI graphics, email writing), but only 5% have established policies. Why this matters and how to get ahead of it.Anthropic Wants Your Voice: One of the world's major AI companies is actively seeking Christian leaders' input on ethical AI development.The Generational Conversation: How to bridge generational gaps on your staff—Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z process feedback and leadership differently. Leaders who recognize and leverage these differences will thrive.The Bright Spot: Over 250 people with special needs got dressed up for Permission to Dance—a prom designed just for them in Central Oregon. Local churches stepped up, making real inclusion happen.Your Takeaway: Before going further with AI, ask your leadership team three questions: (1) Where are we already using AI? (2) What do we want AI to do better? (3) What do we absolutely NOT want AI to do? Those answers will tell you if you're leading your church's relationship with technology, or if it's happening to you.Resources & Links:Anthropic – Ethical AI DevelopmentTrue North Church GroupHealthy Church Staff PodcastSubscribe to Church Leadership Radar: Get daily insights on what matters in church leadership. Join our newsletter.

What's Happening in Church Leadership This Week In this episode: The AI Policy Gap — 60% of church leaders use AI, but only 5% have a policy to guide it. How to think through technology intentionally before a crisis strikes. Generational Staff Problems — The real friction isn't generational difference, it's leaders assuming everyone learns the way they do. Featuring resources from Chemistry Staffing. Summer Safety Planning — Peer-to-peer risk in youth ministry. XPastor's resource on peer sexual abuse prevention for camps and mission trips. The Bright Spot — Churches in Central Oregon hosted "Permission to Dance," a prom for people with disabilities that celebrated inclusion as biblical practice. Key Takeaway: The churches that navigate change well aren't the ones saying "no" to everything new. They're the ones asking questions ahead of time: "What do we actually believe about this? How does it fit our values?" That posture—being intentional instead of reactive—is how you build a healthy culture. Resources Mentioned: Chemistry Staffing — Generational staff resources XPastor — Peer sexual abuse prevention for youth ministry Connect: Sign up for the Church Leadership Radar newsletter at truenorthchurchgroup.com/newsletter Listen to the Healthy Church Staff Podcast Follow True North Church Group for more resources on church leadership

In this episode: Beth Moore reflects on ego and legacy as she eyes retirement Bethel Church conducts third-party investigation and implements external governance oversight How your church's hiring reputation is shaped by former staff—reverse reference checks are real A Mississippi church quietly changes 150 lives by welcoming Ukrainian refugee families Key insight: Legacy isn't what you build—it's what you let go of. The ego you surrender, the credit you give away, the narrative you stop controlling. Links & Resources: Beth Moore on legacy and ego in ministry Bethel Church investigation updates Church culture and hiring reputation insights Refugee integration ministry in Mississippi Connect with Church Leadership Radar: Subscribe to the daily newsletter Listen to the Healthy Church Staff Podcast Church Leadership Radar is a daily podcast brought to you by True North Church Group. We help church leaders stay on top of what matters in ministry, culture, and faith.

In This Episode:Craig Groeschel talks about hitting the wall in leadership. The global church is growing explosively while U.S. churches face decline narratives. Brian Tome's suspension from Crossroads Church shows what healthy accountability can look like. Plus, the Disability and The Church Conference is coming to Washington D.C.What's Discussed:Craig Groeschel's Breaking Point – His conversation with therapist Dr. Wayne Chappelle on Carey Nieuwhof's Leadership Podcast (Episode 786) about leadership burnout and hitting the wallGlobal Church Growth – LifeWay Research data on Christianity approaching 2.6 billion believers worldwide, with explosive growth in Africa and AsiaMegachurch Accountability – Brian Tome's suspension from Crossroads Church and the independent investigation into 2015 allegations, demonstrating healthy church governanceBright Spot – The Disability and The Church Conference, April 21-23, 2026 in Washington, D.C.Key Takeaway: Leaders need to address burnout before it destroys them. Your people need you healthy more than they need you heroic.Resources & Links:Carey Nieuwhof's Leadership PodcastLifeWay ResearchCrossroads ChurchDisability and The Church ConferenceConnect with Us:Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on church leadership trendsListen to the Healthy Church Staff Podcast

What's Happening: Crossroads Church pastor Brian Tome takes a one-month suspension followed by four-month leave following investigation into inappropriate conduct A deep dive into how to actually get your elder board to listen to your ministry needs A reminder from Craig Groeschel about leadership in the valleys, not just the mountaintops Key Takeaway: Leadership isn't about having standards—every church has those. It's what you do when someone falls short. Accountability, transparency, and integrity in action.

This Week in Church Leadership:Matt Chandler at The Village Church is witnessing record-breaking baptisms and what he calls a "massive movement of God" across the U.S., attributing it to the "death of secularism." But as spiritual hunger rises, pastor burnout continues to accelerate—70% of pastors report having no close friends, and 38% have seriously considered leaving ministry.We also dive into:Gen Z at church: Record baptisms of young adults as churches create space for authentic spiritual explorationAI in ministry: 60% of church leaders now use AI monthly, but only 5% of churches have actual AI policiesBeachReach: 2,000+ students mobilized over spring break, resulting in 863 meaningful gospel conversationsThe tension of this moment: The church has an unprecedented opportunity to reach spiritually hungry people, but many leaders are running on fumes. Growth without burnout. Vision without exhaustion. That's the challenge ahead.Resources:Join our newsletter: The Healthy Church StaffListen to Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Today's radar stories:Matt Chandler & The Spiritual Hunger Movement - Record baptisms and spiritual conversions at The Village Church, as secularism's frameworks collapse and people seek authentic spiritual depthThe Hidden Crisis: Spiritual Burnout Among Pastors - 53% of pastors report health-affecting stress, 70% have no close friends to confide in. Critical leadership team health issueThe ECFA Resignation Story - At least 8 Christian ministries recently resigned from the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability. An accountability shift worth watchingBright Spot - Christian musician Forrest Frank and friend Noah Hayden turned a surfing accident into a $90K+ fundraiser for child trafficking ministryKey Takeaway: You can't lead people into spiritual depth if you're spiritually burned out. Tend to your own spiritual life first - everything else follows.Resources:Subscribe to Church Leadership Radar newsletterHealthy Church Staff Podcast

What's Happening: The hard truth about pastoral burnout and why it's not a badge of faithfulness Why delegation actually kills team morale when leaders don't do it A surprising statistic about Gen Z conversion and baptism growth breaking the decline narrative Key Takeaway: Burnout happens because you're trying to do too much. The way out isn't more self-care—it's rhythm, delegation, and building a team that owns the mission. Sources: Church Answers - "The Pace of Leadership: Why Burnout Is Not a Badge of Faithfulness" (Jacki King) Church Leaders - "When the Pastor Stops Feeling God: The Spiritual Burnout No One Talks About" (David Mercer) Outreach - "Why Leaders Fail to Delegate (and How It Kills Team Morale)" (Jimmy Dodd) Washington Examiner - "Gen Z Is Filling Churches: The Data Behind Surprising Growth" Want to stay updated on church leadership insights? Subscribe to Church Leadership Radar newsletter Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Today's Episode: Access Church removes its lead pastors with minimal explanation—and what that reveals about leadership transitions. Hope Church shares their counterintuitive growth strategy. And Todd breaks down why your church board keeps shooting down your best ministry ideas.Featured Stories & Resources:Access Church Leadership Transition: Brian and Sandra Sisneros removed over Easter weekendHope Church (Las Vegas): One of America's fastest-growing churches shifting to multiplication over growthTodd's Board Governance Resource: Why Your Ministry Vision Keeps Getting Shot Down by the Board—And How to Fix It (Chemistry Staffing)Bright Spot: BeachReach 2026 - 2000+ students, 863 gospel conversations during spring breakJoin the Conversation:True North Church GroupHealthy Church Staff PodcastSubscribe to our newsletter

Church Leadership Radar - Tuesday, April 7, 2026 This week on the podcast: Access Church Firing: A major church in Texas terminated its lead pastor couple over Easter weekend with minimal transparency—and what that reveals about church leadership communication and values AI in Ministry: 60% of pastors are now using AI tools, but most churches have zero governance framework for it Bright Spot: A Christian astronaut carries his faith to the moon on NASA's Artemis mission The core message: Leadership communication matters. When churches handle transparency well, it strengthens culture. When they don't, people fill in the blanks and lose confidence. Subscribe to Church Leadership Radar: Newsletter Signup More Episodes Healthy Church Staff Podcast Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.

Episode Summary:A major church firing in Texas raises serious transparency questions. 60% of pastors are now using AI tools, but almost none have a governance plan. And a Christian astronaut carries his faith to the moon on the Artemis mission.Key Stories:Access Church in Texas fires lead pastor couple over Easter weekend with no public explanationStudy shows 60% of pastors using AI for sermon prep and administration, but lack governance frameworksChristian astronaut pilots Artemis mission—humanity's first return to the moon in 53 yearsThe Takeaway:Leadership transparency matters. When churches hide decisions, people fill in the blanks and lose confidence. The leaders who last are the ones committed to honesty, even when it's uncomfortable.Resources:True North Church GroupHealthy Church Staff PodcastNewsletter Signup

Episode Summary:In this episode, we explore three critical issues facing church leaders today:AI in Ministry: 60% of pastors are using AI monthly, but 65% worry it could replace their spiritual guidance. Only 5% of churches have an AI policy. We discuss how to lead the conversation about AI thoughtfully rather than fearfully.Pastor Burnout: 42% of pastors actively want to quit ministry due to unsustainable emotional and spiritual toll. We examine the research and what church leaders can do to support their pastors and staff.Accountability & The Robert Morris Case: Morris was released after 6 months, but survivor Cindy Clemishire continues pursuing accountability. This case reveals the importance of building a culture of transparency and quick action in your church.The 200-Attendance Barrier: Churches stuck at 150-180 attendance face a real growth barrier that requires spiritual, relational, and leadership transitions.Key Takeaway: The AI conversation will define the next few years of ministry. Don't wait for a crisis—lead conversations with your staff and congregation about how your church will use technology while protecting what makes human spiritual guidance irreplaceable.Sources & Resources:Barna and Pushpay AI StudyPastor Burnout ResearchRobert Morris Case (Released March 31, 2026)Church Growth: Breaking the 200-Attendance BarrierConnect:Subscribe to the NewsletterChurch Leadership Radar WebsiteHealthy Church Staff Podcast

This Week's Ministry Week in Review This Saturday's episode covers: Accountability in Action: Oklahoma's Cindy Clemishire Act and the Robert Morris case at Gateway Church—accountability systems are working Structural Solutions: The Unstuck Group's conversation on structure and lead pastor burnout—it's not about working harder, it's about healthier systems Prayer at the Heart: A multidenominational prayer initiative launching this Easter season to mobilize spiritual awakening across America Small Church Impact: Harvest Fields Church shows that a 30-member church is reaching 1,400 kids annually—impact isn't about size Community Presence: Piedmont Church's "Love Does" ministry transforms how communities see the church Key Takeaway: Your work matters. Whether you're leading a megachurch or a small congregation, your faithfulness this weekend could change someone's life forever. Runtime: 10:40 About Church Leadership Radar:A weekly podcast helping church leaders stay informed on what's happening in ministry leadership. Subscribe to stay updated. Resources: True North Church Group Healthy Church Staff Podcast

In today's episode, we explore nine church trends that are actually working in 2026, from sermon repurposing to stewardship reframes and guest follow-up timing. We also discuss why your executive pastor might be your church's best crisis prevention system—positioned as an early warning system watching the health of your organization. Plus, a challenging question about whether we're measuring evangelism in our ordination and credentialing processes.Resources & Links:9 Church Trends Every Pastor Should Know About in 2026 - Church Tech TodayWhy Executive Pastors Are Your Church's Best Crisis Prevention System - Chemistry StaffingAre Churches Including Evangelism in Credentialing & Ordination? - Church AnswersDelegation That Develops (10-80-10 Framework) - Exponential/Kadi ColeHosted by: Ted Rhoades (in for Todd)Newsletter: Subscribe to Church Leadership Radar NewsletterRelated Podcast: Healthy Church Staff Podcast

What's happening in church leadership today:The Southern Baptist Convention just named Evan Lenow as the next president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty CommissionAmy Anderson from The Unstuck Group highlights the uncomfortable structural truth about why lead pastors burn outWhy our cultural narrative of independence is costing churches more than we realizePiedmont Church showing what it means to be a resource to the communityKey Insight: When your leaders are exhausted, look at your systems first. Burnout isn't always personal—often it's structural. And structures can be fixed.Resources & Links:The Unstuck Group - theunstuckgroup.comLife.Church - life.churchPiedmont Church - piedmont.churchSouthern Baptist Convention - sbc.netStay Connected:Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter: truenorthchurchgroup.com/newsletterListen to the Healthy Church Staff Podcast: healthychurchstaff.com

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Episode SummaryA troubling trend in church staff health reveals declining wellbeing across churches over the past three years. Plus, major institutional shifts on accountability standards, and a Baptist partnership addressing a critical gap in marriage ministry.Stories Covered:The Hidden Crisis: Why Church Staff Health Is Quietly Declining (Chemistry Staffing)Institutional Accountability: Grace Community Church Removed From Counseling Training Center List (Christian Post)Marriage Ministry: Texas Baptists and Communio Partner to Strengthen Christian Marriages (Christian Post)The Bright Spot: Grief Turned to Gospel - Pastor's Courage Leads to 10 Conversions at Teen's FuneralKey Takeaway: Staff health is foundational. If you're burning out the people doing the work, you can't be the Church you're called to be.Resources & Links:Church Leadership Radar Newsletter: SubscribeHealthy Church Staff Podcast: ListenChemistry Staffing: VisitChurch Leadership Radar - Your daily catch-up on what matters in church leadership.

Today's EpisodeChurch Leadership Radar - your daily briefing on what matters in church leadership and culture.What We're Discussing:Oklahoma's Cindy Clemishire Act - Protecting abuse survivors by restricting NDAs in settlementsWhy younger generations are returning to church - and what they're looking forVision drift warning - How to spot when your staff has mentally checked outThe Bright Spot - Harvest Fields Church reaching 1,400 kids annually with 30 membersKey Takeaway: A church with no clear purpose is in slow decline. But the culture is ready for churches that stand for something real. Sit down with your leadership this week and ask: if we shut down tomorrow, what would the community actually miss?Resources & Links:True North Church GroupChurch Leadership Radar Newsletter SignupHealthy Church Staff Podcast🎙️ Church Leadership Radar - Think daily about culture and leadership

Ministry Week in Review - Saturday EditionThis week we dive into what really matters for church leadership heading into Easter and beyond.Topics CoveredWalter Kim & Good Neighbor Day America - Exploring the power of unified community service on May 16th and how togetherness transforms the church's witnessCarl Lentz on Double Life Pressures - Honest conversation about how church growth metrics can become cover-ups for personal brokenness (with Carey Nieuwhof)Barna Research on Biblical Worldview - The encouraging news about 25 million "Emergent Followers" and discipleship opportunitiesStaff Health Crisis - Chemistry Staffing research showing the slow erosion of church staff wellbeing and how to fix itThe Point Church Bright Spot - 350 volunteers showing what loving your community looks like in actionKey InsightThe most effective churches won't be the biggest or flashiest—they'll be healthy from the inside out, enabling leaders to serve their communities with joy instead of desperation.ResourcesChristianity TodayCarey NieuwhofBarna ResearchChemistry StaffingNewsletter: True North Church GroupRelated Podcast: Healthy Church Staff PodcastHosted by Ted Rhoades (Todd's AI Twin) | Church Leadership Radar

Today's Stories:Good Neighbor Day America: The National Association of Evangelicals is calling churches nationwide to participate in coordinated service on May 16, 2026. Walter Kim explains: "There is power in togetherness for the church's witness." This is an opportunity for your church to answer whether you're truly about something meaningful.Safeguarding Reminder: A critical wake-up call about background checks and volunteer screening protocols. Your church's responsibility to protect the families you serve.The Point Church, Charlottesville: A bright spot—this church hosted Local Reach Days with 350 volunteers completing 28 community service projects. Three times per year, every congregation member involved.Key Takeaway: Good Neighbor Day on May 16 is not just a service event—it's an opportunity to show your community what Christian love actually looks like in action, without argument or politics. Just service.Resources & Links:National Association of Evangelicals: www.nae.orgGood Neighbor Day America: www.goodneighbordayamerica.comThe Point Church, Charlottesville: thepointcharlottesville.comSubscribe to our newsletter: www.churchleadershipradar.comListen to Healthy Church Staff Podcast: www.healthychurchstaff.comChurch Leadership Radar is your daily catch-up on what matters in church leadership. Hosted by Todd Rhoades.

Today's Episode Summary:A powerful insight from George Barna's research on discipleship: while only 19% of Americans show full biblical alignment, there are 25 million "Emergent Followers" in the middle—people with some biblical beliefs but lacking a cohesive worldview. That's not a crisis. That's leverage. That's where intentional discipleship efforts could make the biggest gains.Plus: The quiet staff health crisis that's eroding your best leaders. Over three years, healthy staff has declined from 82% to 75%—not from one dramatic crisis, but from leaders continuously adding responsibilities without removing anything. And breaking research on church growth: 86% of churches are growing, but the growth rate is slowing from 19% to 14% year-over-year.The Bright Spot: A Midwest church with just 30 members is reaching 1,400 kids through sports ministry. One thousand, four hundred kids. Thirty members. Not by adding staff or programs, but by having everyone clear on their role.Key Takeaway: The question isn't whether you can keep adding. You're probably already doing it. The question is: what are you removing so your staff can actually breathe?Sources & Links:George Barna Research on Biblical WorldviewTodd Rhoades' Staff Health ResearchThe Unstuck Group Church Growth SurveySubscribe & Connect:Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar NewsletterListen to the Healthy Church Staff PodcastLearn more at True North Church Group

Today on Church Leadership Radar: Carl Lentz opens up about the double life behind the megachurch stage and the warning signs he ignored. The Unstuck Group releases Q1 2026 church health data showing 86% of churches growing but growth rates slowing. A look at the three areas most church budgets consistently under-fund. Plus, students from Texas and Oklahoma spend spring break rebuilding flood-damaged homes.Today's Takeaway: Before Holy Week prep swallows your calendar, ask yourself: Is there something you've been avoiding because you're too busy to face it?🔗 The Unstuck Group Church Report📩 Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar Newsletter🎙️ Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Today on Church Leadership Radar: Elevation Church partners with Southeastern University to launch an onsite college program, signaling a growing trend of megachurches as leadership development hubs. New data shows churches baptized over 250,000 adults in 2024—up 10% and marking the fourth straight year of growth, with Gen Z showing significant spiritual commitment. Plus, a sobering look at three consecutive years of declining church staff health, and an inspiring March Madness story about faith and team chemistry at Alabama.Stories Covered:Elevation Church launching onsite college program with Southeastern UniversityAdult baptism rates up 10% — fourth consecutive year of growthChurch staff health declining for three straight yearsAlabama basketball team's Thursday night Bible study building team chemistryMore from Church Leadership Radar:Subscribe to the newsletter: churchleadershipradar.substack.comListen to the Healthy Church Staff Podcast: Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Today on Church Leadership Radar: Craig Groeschel sits down with Carey Nieuwhof to discuss adapting communication for digital ministry and AI. We mourn the loss of Bishop Donald Maxwell and his wife in a tragic drunk driving accident. Plus, the painful truth about hiring your best volunteers — and a Costco-loving pastor who's reaching Gen Z in an unexpected way.Source LinksCraig Groeschel on Adapting Communication for Digital Ministry and AI — Carey Nieuwhof Leadership PodcastBeloved New York Pastor and Wife Killed by Drunk Driver — The Christian PostCostco Pastor Celebrates Young People's Turn to Faith — The Christian Post📬 Subscribe to our newsletter for daily church leadership insights.🎧 Check out the Healthy Church Staff Podcast with Todd Rhoades.

Ministry Week in Review — March 21, 2026In this Saturday edition of Church Leadership Radar, Ted Rhoades recaps the biggest stories from the week in church leadership:Exponential 2026 Conference — The "Multiplier" theme and the shift from church planting quantity to leader quality and multiplicationThe Multisite Reckoning — The Unstuck Group's benchmarks, CRC task force report, and why multisite is maturing beyond "just launch another campus"Second Baptist Houston Governance Crisis — Bylaw changes, attendance drops of 25-35%, and what every church can learn about process trustChurch Staff Health & Benefits Gap — Why benefits (not salary) are the #1 reason churches are losing good staff in 2026Bright Spot: Churches haven't forgotten Portland — Greater Portland Bible Church and Garden Space PDX are showing what salt and light look like in one of America's hardest mission fields.Links & Resources:Exponential 2026 ConferenceThe Unstuck Group — Multisite SeriesChristianity Today — Churches Haven't Forgotten PortlandSubscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter for daily updates. Check out the Healthy Church Staff Podcast with Todd Rhoades.

Today on Church Leadership Radar: Second Baptist Houston heads to court over a governance battle that's divided its 94,000-member congregation. The Exponential 2026 conference wraps in Orlando with a focus on multiplication over addition. New data reveals why church staff health is quietly declining. Plus, clergy in Beaumont, TX launch a collaborative youth mentoring initiative.Stories Covered:Second Baptist Houston governance lawsuit and leadership transitionExponential 2026 conference — Multiplier theme with Carey NieuwhofChurch staff health and wellbeing dataBeaumont, TX clergy youth mentoring initiativeKey Takeaway: When a few people make big decisions on behalf of many, it creates a legitimacy gap that becomes a trust gap — and that trust gap becomes an attendance gap. The churches that navigate transitions well over-communicate, over-include, and move at the speed of trust.🔗 Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Today on Church Leadership Radar: A man brings explosives to a church service in Indiana — a sobering reminder about church security. Plus, the painful truth about hiring your best volunteers, and Jennie Allen gets honest about wanting to quit everything. And some good news: churches pack over 183,000 meals through Feed My Starving Children events.Stories Covered:Man brings explosive device and firearm into Indiana church serviceThe painful truth of hiring your best volunteers — navigating the tension between volunteer excellence and staff competencyJennie Allen opens up about wanting to quit everything — spiritual warfare and leadership exhaustionFeed My Starving Children Mobile-Pack events — churches packing hundreds of thousands of mealsConnect:Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter at churchleadershipradar.substack.comCheck out the Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Today's StoriesBrady Boyd Launches New Services Near New Life Church — The former lead pastor of New Life Church in Colorado Springs is starting Wednesday night services just four miles from the church that asked him to resign, raising questions about pastoral restoration and accountability.Moody Bible Institute Wins Settlement Over Religious Hiring Rights — Moody settled with Chicago Public Schools after being excluded from the student teaching program over religious hiring practices. Moody is now an approved partner again, setting a helpful precedent.The Great Unmooring: The Church's Opportunity — Cultural and generational upheaval is creating widespread rootlessness, and the argument is this moment is actually the church's biggest opportunity in a generation.BOUNCE Ministry Receives Texas Governor's Volunteer Award — A student disaster recovery ministry in Dallas was recognized for mobilizing students to help communities rebuild after disasters.Key TakeawayDoes your church have a restoration framework for when a leader falls? The time to build that framework is before you need it, not after.ConnectSubscribe to the Church Leadership Radar NewsletterCheck out the Healthy Church Staff Podcast

Today on Church Leadership Radar: Angelus Temple parts ways with longtime pastor Matthew Barnett after his sabbatical — a fascinating leadership transition as the Foursquare denomination installs new executive pastors Brad and Stella Reed. Plus, why churches are losing great staff (hint: it's not salary, it's total compensation). Church of the Highlands launches its 26th campus in Peachtree City, Georgia. And a student-led tent revival at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor draws 1,000 students with 80 decisions for Christ.Today's Takeaway: Leadership transitions are one of the hardest things any church will face. The how matters as much as the what — prioritize clarity and trust over speed and control. If a transition is on your horizon, start the conversation now.Links & Resources:Healthy Church Staff PodcastSubscribe to the Church Leadership Radar Newsletter

Today on Church Leadership RadarIt's Monday, March 16th. Ted Rhoades (Todd's AI twin brother) covers today's top church leadership stories:Former Ligonier Leader Excommunicated – Stephen Nichols, who previously served in a prominent role at Ligonier Ministries, has reportedly been excommunicated from Saint Andrew's Chapel. What does your church's discipline and restoration process look like?The Church Staff Housing Crisis – Churches are losing potential hires because candidates can't afford to live in the community. If your last search took too long or your top candidate said no, housing costs may be the reason nobody's talking about.Lakepointe Church Mass Wedding – Led by Josh Howerton, Lakepointe Church in Texas hosted a free mass wedding for couples who couldn't afford a traditional ceremony. Creative, generous outreach at its best.Key TakeawayThe housing crisis isn't just a compensation conversation—it's a stewardship conversation. Are we stewarding our teams well enough that they can actually thrive in the communities they're called to serve?🎧 Healthy Church Staff Podcast📬 Subscribe to the Newsletter🔗 Chemistry Staffing

Your weekly wrap-up of what mattered in church leadership this week. In this Saturday edition, Ted Rhoades covers:Wesley Huff on The Diary of a CEO — Christian apologist Wesley Huff appeared on Steven Bartlett's massive mainstream podcast, tackling questions about heaven, hell, Scripture, and prayer with clarity and confidence.2026 State of Church Technology Report — Pushpay and Barna Group's new report reveals the key question isn't whether your church uses tech, but whether your tech is aligned with your mission.Craig Groeschel on Vulnerability — Groeschel challenges the self-help mindset in ministry, writing in Relevant Magazine and Outreach Magazine about why asking for help is wisdom, not weakness.Ben Sasse's Faith Journey — Former U.S. Senator Ben Sasse shares how his Christian faith sustains him through a stage four pancreatic cancer diagnosis.East Texas Church Building Swap — An Assemblies of God church and a Baptist church traded buildings in a beautiful display of Kingdom-first thinking.Key Theme: Authenticity wins. Alignment matters more than activity. As Easter approaches, the question for your church: are you optimizing for impression, or for connection?🔗 Links & Resources:Wesley Huff on The Diary of a CEO2026 State of Church Technology Report (Pushpay/Barna)Craig Groeschel in Relevant Magazine📬 Subscribe to the Church Leadership Radar newsletter🎧 Check out the Healthy Church Staff Podcast