Alban at Duke Divinity School

Both work and rest shape us in meaningful ways. Is it time for you to enter a season of rest?

Alban at Duke Divinity School » Reclaim the gift of rest Marius Masalar / Unsplash The book of Ecclesiastes tells us “there is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the sun.” (3:1 NRSVUE). In our fast-paced, task-oriented culture, where we dedicate so much of our lives to our work, Ecclesiastes reminds us there also is an appoint...

Let’s challenge our people to do more than sit back and watch.

Alban at Duke Divinity School » Courageous congregations Piotr Makowski / Unsplash By the end of “Star Wars: A New Hope,” Luke Skywalker has successfully used the Force to save the Rebel base. Princess Leia has presented medals of bravery to Luke, Han Solo and Chewbacca for their heroic role in defeating the Empire. Released three years later, “The ...

How do we continue to engage the more senior members of our congregations?

Alban at Duke Divinity School » Honoring your elders Dannie Franco / Unsplash Most churches have faithful members like Brother Williams or Sister Jackson (the names have been changed to protect the innocent!) They sit in the same seat each Sunday. Their hair is gray and their steps are slow. On Sundays, they arrive earlier than most other people. They...

The key attributes of inspirational leadership are accessible to all of us.

Alban at Duke Divinity School » What does it mean to “inspire”? Christina @ wocintechchat.com / Unsplash Congregational leaders carry a huge burden. They’re expected to motivate others when they don’t feel motivated. They’re expected to lead the charge even when they feel uncertain. We look to our leaders for inspiration.   When someone inspires us, we c...