This is Us - Canadian small churches in action Canadian Small Church Ministry Centre

Lydia Fawcett works with MCC - BC in the area of Abuse and Bullying. She finds that churches are as prone to abuse and bullying as the general society. Her passion to help the vulnerable is evident in this interview.
Addressing abuse in small churches.
Churches must prioritize listening and learning to prevent abuse, regardless of denomination or beliefs. The importance of truth-telling in a church setting is key, with abuse defined as any behavior that causes harm or injury to another person, regardless of their faith background or socio-economic status.

Exploring power dynamics in abusive relationships, with a focus on emotional manipulation and gaslighting.
Women in the church experience emotional abuse through gaslighting and lack of agency in decision-making.

Communication, abuse, and self-awareness.
Fawcett emphasizes self-awareness for effective communication. She reflects on the historical roots of the societal crises related to abuse, tracing back centuries.

The importance of churches being safe spaces for healing and growth
Don't be afraid to learn and listen deeply – find resources and be willing to grow.

Outline:
Paulo's Journey in Ministry

Pastor Paulo's Church and 5 Fun Days Program

Community Involvement and Networking in Church

Church Growth and Low-Income Neighborhood Discussion

Community Connections and Church Strategies

Small Church's Tech Transition Amid Covid-19

Small Church Online Presence Strategy

Cheryl Ann Beals serves as Director of Zozo Center for Soul Care located in the Maritimes of Canada. In her work she is dedicated to helping leaders experience the fulness of Jesus through their own soul care. With this depth of experience the leader is than able to lead others into a great encounter with Jesus. The witness of this abundant life expands into relationships around the leaders - bringing Jesus into the community and the world.

Alison Witt works with refugees, particularly in the Hamilton area. She also serves with a Canadian refugee assistance institution called IAFR. Her insight into the compassion ministry of small churches reaching out to refugees is well worth the listen.

Refugee ministry with a focus on ESL support and personal stories.
0:15
Refugee housing and support in Hamilton, Ontario.
5:23
How churches can help refugees in Canada through home hosting and affordable rentals.
12:18
Refugee ministry challenges and opportunities for small churches.
18:49
Embracing newcomers and refugees in small churches.
25:15

Brian Siewert is the pastor of a small rural church in Onoway, Alberta. He works with a rural church hub collective in Western Canada. His own experiences gives a personal touch to the love of the rural church.

Rural church ministry and family faith development.0:00

Small church significance and rural ministry.4:39

The strengths and challenges of rural churches in Canada.8:59

Resource challenges in rural churches.14:00

Challenges facing rural churches and pastors.19:04

The challenges and solutions for rural church leaders.24:45

• The tendency to overlook the gospel's impact on daily life. 0:15

• The relevance of the gospel in a secular society. 5:32

• The role of the church in a changing society. 10:28

• Small churches, relationships, and proclaiming the gospel. 14:35

• Church growth and ministry challenges in Canada. 18:16

• Small church ministry and humility. 22:43