The Small Church Ministry Podcast

Laurie Graham
  • 5.0 (86)
  • 基督教
  • 一周一更

The only podcast created for volunteers and everyday leaders in smaller congregations, this show embraces small church ministry as a place where God is already at work. Founder of Small Church Ministry and the Small Church Network, Laurie J. Graham shares why small churches matter—not as a scaled-down version of something bigger, but as powerful communities with their own unique strengths. Each episode offers creative solutions to real challenges with a mix of honest encouragement, leadership skills, and actionable next steps.  Laurie hosts the show with a perspective shaped by decades in ministry on every side of small church life—as a volunteer, staff leader, and pastor’s spouse. She knows both the pressure and the beauty of small churches firsthand, and brings steady encouragement, practical wisdom, and deep care for both volunteers and ministry leaders.

  1. 6天前

    192: Women, You’re Not Too Emotional (You Might Not Be Emotional Enough) | with Becky Brown

    Women in small churches often feel like we have to hold it all in or keep it together for everyone else. But shutting down emotions doesn’t make us stronger — it cuts us off from one of the main ways God shapes us. In this episode, Becky Brown and I bust the myth that emotions are a weakness and show why they might be your greatest strength. What you’ll hear in this episode: Why “managing” your emotions can backfire — and what to do insteadThe surprising connection between emotional growth and spiritual maturityHow women in small churches often feel pressure to “hold it together” — and why it’s healthy to fall apart sometimesThe truth about emotions as signals, not distractions or obstaclesWhy your “too much” might actually be exactly what your church needs Connect with Becky Brown: When You Feel Like You’re Too Much: Why Your Emotions Might Be a Gift, Not a Problem www.soveryblessed.com Get on the waitlist for the Lead Well for Women in Small Churches Conference: www.smallchurchsummits.com Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show Follow Us: Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

    43 分钟

  2. 8月26日

    191: Stop Saying People Aren’t Committed - It’s Hurting Your Ministry

    When people don’t show up, it’s easy to assume they don’t care. But labeling them “uncommitted” doesn’t make us stronger leaders—it just makes us bitter, burned out, and less curious.  In this episode, we’re calling out the commitment myth that keeps showing up in church conversations—and talking about what it really means to lead with presence, hope, and agency.  Because what we believe about people? It shows up in how we treat them. In this episode: Why labeling people “uncommitted” leads to fatalism and frustrationHow our assumptions shape our actions—and our church cultureThe power of curiosity over criticism when people don’t engage how we’d likeWhat it means to lead with agency, not resentment Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show Follow Us: Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

    32 分钟

  3. 8月19日

    190: Grace, Bullies, & Boundaries: How To Stay In The Conversation

    If you listened to Episode 189, you know we tackled the hard truth about what happens when grace gets twisted into protecting bullies in the church.  This episode stands on its own — but it’s also a continuation of that conversation. We’re getting real about how to handle church conflict in a healthy, biblical way … and why the space between ignoring bad behavior and asking someone to leave matters so much. Here’s what’s inside: The “in-between” - why it matters and how to live there without losing your mind.How to deal with bullies in church - with empathy, truth, and boundaries.Speaking softly, holding your ground, and still loving people well.The behavior that’s never okay in church (and how to call it out with kindness).When to keep working toward repair … and when to walk away in peace.Because healthy churches aren’t built by people who avoid hard conversations. They’re built by people who love deeply, speak truth gently, and trust that God still has more for His church. Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show Follow Us: Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

    35 分钟

  4. 8月12日

    189: When “Grace” Protects Bullies: How We Confuse Avoidance With Christlikeness

    Sometimes “just be gracious” is really code for “don’t rock the boat.” But when grace gets twisted into silence, avoidance, or fear, it stops looking like Jesus.  In this episode, we’re talking about the quiet damage that happens when harmful behavior is tolerated in the name of patience or peace.  What do you do when you’re not in charge but can’t ignore the dysfunction? Let’s get real about boundaries, truth, and the courage to speak up in love. What You’ll Hear: Why avoidance often gets mislabeled as grace in small church cultureThe difference between strong personalities and destructive behaviorWhat it looks like to protect others without overstepping leadershipSimple language and actions that help you draw healthy linesEncouragement to stay spiritually healthy—even when your church isn’t Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show Follow Us: Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

    32 分钟

  5. 8月5日

    188: The Small Church Pay Debate: A Question That Drives Me Crazy!

    That question — “Would you keep doing your ministry if you weren’t paid?” — drives me nuts.  Ministry isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is pay. Some serve as a career, others as a calling — and both deserve respect.  This episode isn’t about right or wrong; it’s about honesty, healthy boundaries, and giving yourself permission to choose what works for your life, whether that includes a paycheck or not. What You’ll Hear: How the “Would you work for free?” question misses the messy, real-life truth about small church ministryWhy budgets don’t always reflect the value churches place on ministry rolesWhen unclear expectations can lead to hurt—and why clear boundaries protect everyone Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show Follow Us: Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

    26 分钟

  6. 7月29日

    187: When Your Church Feels Like It’s Dying: What to Do (and What’s Still True)

    If your church is shrinking, struggling, or just doesn’t look like it used to—it can feel like failure. But what if it’s not? In this episode, we talk honestly about fear, change, and what actually makes a church vibrant (hint: it’s not numbers). Because while buildings close, callings don’t—and Jesus isn’t panicking. You’ll hear: Why panic isn’t a strategy—and what to focus on insteadHow to grieve well without getting stuck in itWhat to do when the youth group disappears (or never existed)What influence looks like when you have no title or teamLet’s shift from fear to purpose—and start showing up like it still matters. Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show Follow Us: Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

    42 分钟

  7. 7月22日

    186: Planning Your KidMin Year | with Lauren Jackson

    What if you could enter the next ministry year with clarity, unity, and a plan that actually fits your church?  In this episode, I talk with Lauren Jackson from Kids Ministry Circle about how churches of any size can create a meaningful, intentional KidMin plan—and why July is the perfect time to start.  Whether you're leading solo or working with a team, this conversation will give you practical ideas and a whole lot of encouragement. In this episode, you'll hear: 1. Why summer is the ideal time to plan your KidMin year 2. How to invite Jesus into your planning process 3. Key conversations to have with your pastor and team 4. What planning looks like in small church contexts 5. Encouragement for leaders who feel overwhelmed or under-resourced Connect with Lauren Jackson: www.nextgenministrynetwork.com Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show Follow Us: Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

    29 分钟

  8. 7月15日

    185: Finally, A Children’s Curriculum Made For Two Or More (Literally) | with Ali Thompson

    What if your small church could run a meaningful, Jesus-centered children’s ministry—even with just a few kids and a couple of volunteers?  In this episode, I’m talking with Group Publishing about their brand-new Sunday School curriculum, Two or More, designed specifically for smaller churches and mixed-age groups.  If you've been trying to “make it work” with curriculum that doesn’t fit your context… this one's for you. In this episode, you'll hear: 1. Why Two or More was created with small churches in mind 2. How it works for all ages in the same room 3. What makes this curriculum different from others on the market 4. How it supports volunteers who wear all the hats 5. How to know if it’s the right fit for your church Find Two Or More Curriculum here: www.smallchurchministry.com/group Connect with Ali Thompson: athompson@group.com Join our free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Rate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts "I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!" If that's like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps Small Church Ministry support and reach more people -- just like you -- in small churches! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let us know what you loved most about this episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. This is the best way to stay updated on the new episodes we release weekly. If you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on future episodes. Follow now! Get the Ministry Bundles here! Support the show Follow Us: Website: https://smallchurchministry.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smallchurchministry/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smallchurchministry Creative Solutions for Small Churches Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministry Small Church Network: https://smallchurchministry.com/membership/

    37 分钟
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关于

The only podcast created for volunteers and everyday leaders in smaller congregations, this show embraces small church ministry as a place where God is already at work. Founder of Small Church Ministry and the Small Church Network, Laurie J. Graham shares why small churches matter—not as a scaled-down version of something bigger, but as powerful communities with their own unique strengths. Each episode offers creative solutions to real challenges with a mix of honest encouragement, leadership skills, and actionable next steps.  Laurie hosts the show with a perspective shaped by decades in ministry on every side of small church life—as a volunteer, staff leader, and pastor’s spouse. She knows both the pressure and the beauty of small churches firsthand, and brings steady encouragement, practical wisdom, and deep care for both volunteers and ministry leaders.

信息

  • 创作者
    Laurie Graham
  • 活跃年份
    2021年 - 2025年
  • 单集
    192
  • 分级
    儿童适宜
  • 版权
    © 2025 The Small Church Ministry Podcast
  • 节目网站
    The Small Church Ministry Podcast

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