Welcome to our top story findings of the week, on today’s issue of The Hub.

1. EDITORIAL: “The Unique Role of the Church in the Loneliness Crisis” by the Vivienne Smith

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This article from Eternity News, titled “The Unique Role of the Church in the Loneliness Crisis,” discusses the growing epidemic of loneliness and highlights ways in which the Church can help combat this crisis. Vivienne Smith explains, “The church is fundamentally different from other communities because it is built on the belief that true, fulfilling relationships emerges from the right constraints.” While the epidemic of loneliness is a growing one, Smith believes the Church community holds the very solution – meaningful and purposeful relationships.

2. RESHAPING THE CHURCH: “Planting Churches, Two by Two” by Erik Tryggestad

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This article from The Christian Chronicle, titled “Planting Churches, Two by Two,” celebrates the growth of a congregation in Oklahoma as it establishes new church plants throughout the area. Memorial Road’s preaching minister, Phil Brookman, said, “The best way to counter churches closing their doors is to open new ones. Every new congregation is a kingdom outpost, regardless of location.” Indeed, using spaces like bakeries, school cafeterias, ice cream shops and supermarkets, the congregation of Memorial Road testifies to the ever-growing nature of the body of Christ.

3. RESHAPING THE CHURCH: “Maryland Church Offers ‘Prayer Board’ as Invitation to Community for Residents’ Prayer Requests” by David Paulsen

Photo by Yanin Diaz for Unsplash

This article from Episcopal News Service, titled “Maryland Church Offers ‘Prayer Board’ as Invitation to Community for Residents’ Prayer Requests,” shares how a church has opened their community up to prayer beyond the pews. InNovember, Emmanuel Episcopal Church established a public prayer board in their yard that is filled with names of specific people, families, issues of the day and more. Reverend Claire Nevin-Field shares, “It helps the community outside to know that the church cares and is alive, and it helps people within the church, the faith community, understand those around us.”

Although every Hub article is selected to foster discussion about modern church structure, not every idea and opinion expressed in the linked articles may fully align with the views and mission of Koinesúnē Magazine. All the same, we seek to uplift and celebrate the different ministries working around the globe.

Check back next Friday for the next Hub article!