Marion Clark

Visitor retention is a challenge for most churches, but it has the harshest - and most noticeable - effect on small churches. Pastors of small churches may feel envious of larger churches, which often have more resources and options for engagement. However, there is power in small church visitor engagement,…

I have two toolboxes, which should identify me as a handyman. For some reason, they do not provide enough evidence for my wife. She has this idea that I should not only use the tools in those boxes but be proficient in handling them. Tools should be used.  I do…

“I’m not satisfied with how well I help when someone comes to me for counsel.” “When the other person is sharing their trouble, are you thinking of how to answer?” “Yes.” “That’s your problem.” I went on to explain to the young intern who had come to me that his…

In my previous article, “The Art of Listening,” I noted that while listening well can be difficult, it is not complex. The difficulty lies more in our motivation and assumptions. The nuts and bolts are few, and assembly is much simpler than putting together an IKEA bookshelf. 1. Give signals…