September 12, 2025

This edition is sponsored by Springtide Research Institute

Pastor,

This has been a heavy week. As you help your people process the assassination of Charlie Kirk, I want to commend this timely reflection piece from Seth Troutt. It’s thoughtful, pastoral, and rooted in our shared call to shepherd well in divided times.

And while you’re carrying all that, don’t carry it alone.

You weren’t meant to carry this alone.

In these divided days, this article on kingdom friendship couldn’t be more timely. Real, cross-shaped relationships aren’t just healing—they’re a witness to our broken world. This is the first article from a new series by Chip Sweney and Robert Kim, who live this out in their contexts.

And Jeremy Writebol’s piece on Gen Z reminds us: though they’re often called the “anxious generation,” they could be known for courage, depth, and faith—if we walk with them.

We don’t need to be everywhere, say everything, or fix it all.

But we do need each other.

We’re with you and praying for you.

Rest in grace,
Chris Poblete
Editorial director for CT Pastors

Elsewhere at CT

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More pastoral resources

High Time for an Honest Conversation about THC

Legal cannabis may be here to stay, but the Christian conversation is just getting started.

The Bible Is More Than a Book to Know

It’s a story to inhabit. And pastors must lead the way.

Let the Locals Lead

Native church planters are preaching, evangelizing, and discipling in places foreign missionaries are struggling to reach.

The Weight of Trust

In a cynical age, pastors must carry their calling with tenderness and grit.

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