Presbytery of Chicago

In his blog this week, Rev. Dr. Craig Howard reflects on the last week with a leadership conference and a pastoral installation. He writes, "The presbytery is at its best when we meet other Presbyterians from different congregations. Congregations and specialized ministers learn they are not islands or silos facing the challenges of ministry. Through connection and communication, we share ideas, find encouragement, and experience the joy of ministry." https://lnkd.in/gi3AVxSC

In his blog this week, Rev. Dr. Craig Howard writes: Each year at Lent, I read six books over the six weeks. My Lenten discipline is a response to the traditional Lenten fast. Instead of giving up chocolate or coffee, I take on the challenge of learning and exploring. In the past, I’ve given credit to Rev. Deborah Block, who is now a retired pastor at Immanuel Presbyterian in Milwaukee. This year, I want to mention the greatest gift I inherited from my late father: Curiosity. Click below to learn what he's reading this year. What are you reading this Lent? https://lnkd.in/gQkMYd8X

Thom Cunningham of First Presbyterian Church of Deerfield shares the guest blog this week encouraging YOU to attend the Chicago Presbytery 2025 Leadership Conference. Leadership is about training and empowering others to share the load. Church leadership isn’t a solo endeavor; it requires a team of well-equipped, knowledgeable individuals who can take responsibility and lead effectively. In this week's blog, Thom explains how the March 8 conference will equip pastors, elders, deacons, and volunteers. https://lnkd.in/g3Kqn9TV

First Presbyterian Church of Deerfield is looking for an Office Administrative Assistant to work collaboratively in providing office operations services to members of the ministry and program leadership, office colleagues, custodial staff, committees, and volunteers. https://lnkd.in/gahwDfyZ

First Presbyterian Church of Evanston is looking for a Youth Ministry Director to develop and oversee and fun and engaging curriculum for grades 6-12. https://lnkd.in/gCJypjjM

Good leadership will push us. Good leadership will involve risk and will not settle for the simple route or the easy answers. To be a good leader during these times is dangerous. Read more in Craig's blog this week. https://lnkd.in/gq3PFK3q

From Craig Howard's weekly blog: Challenges with our committees, students, members, and staff are why we are on the job. I often joke that problems are job security! Leaders are called and hired for their capacity to face, dissect, and lead others to solve the problems of our day and age. https://lnkd.in/gVW9xJN8

Today’s AI technology is a sophisticated tool available to help us in many ways if we are willing to learn how to use it. This week, Craig shares how he is using AI and reflects on its possibilities – and pitfalls – in ministry.

This week, Craig asks: How might the non-denominational strategy of a church start-up fit within the presbytery structure? How flexible is the presbytery willing to become? https://lnkd.in/gkjFxrkW

This week Craig reflects on the new year, writing: The year ahead promises to be a time of both awe and apprehension. We will discover fresh ways to serve God and do our mission while finding grace for the mistakes and blunders that occur. https://lnkd.in/gHGApAxi