June 20, 2025

This edition is sponsored by The Lester Randall Preaching Fellowship

Dear Pastor,

We know how important vision is. A glimpse of what could be. A sense of what God might do. It’s what keeps us plodding when the work feels slow or unseen. It gives shape to our prayers, our planning, and our preaching.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about how easily that good, God-given vision can shift.

Not all at once. Not in clear and obvious ways. But over time, quietly and subtly, our good dreams for our churches can bend. What began in hope starts to feel like striving. Or escape. Or just the need to be seen.

In a candid and piercing reflection, retired pastor David Hansen explores how our most fertile field—our spiritual imagination—can grow weeds that choke out faithfulness.

It’s a timely word, and I hope you’ll take a few minutes to read it here.

Grace and peace to you,

Chris Poblete
Editorial director for CT Pastors

ELSEWHERE AT CT

As war headlines stoke end-times anxiety, CT editor-in-chief Russell Moore urges Christians not to confuse cable news with the Book of Revelation.
Brandon Lake shares how his new album was shaped with pastors in mind. He hopes the songs will speak to hearts hungry for more than just a show.
Justin Giboney reflects on his grandfather, Bishop Thomas Lee Cooper, as a model of humble service, civic advocacy, and sacrificial legacy in a small-town church whose integrity and neighbor-love still challenge us today.

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Every fall, clergy from across North America gather in Toronto for the Lester Randall Preaching Fellowship—October 26th to 28th at Yorkminster Park Church—a rare opportunity to join other preachers, theologians, and ministry leaders for a transformative two-and-a-half-day experience of inspiration, education, mentorship, and worship.

Mingle with a diverse group of leaders from across denominations and take advantage of the opportunity to connect on a deeper level with renowned preachers, theologians, poets, and musicians—not just from the pews, but over meals, in workshops, and through informal conversations.

Each day is anchored in carefully crafted worship, infused with inspiring music and thoughtful liturgy. Through keynote sermons, workshops, and lectures, clergy are invited to reflect deeply on their preaching ministry, gain fresh perspectives, and leave with renewed energy for the pulpit.Don’t miss this opportunity to reconnect with your call and enrich your spirit. Register before July 1 and take advantage of our early bird rate.

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More pastoral resources

What Gen Z Men Need to Hear from Their Pastors

They’re showing up in church and asking real questions. Here are five truths that can shape them into faithful men of God.

Grieving What Ministry Could Have Been

Ministry doesn’t always unfold the way we dreamed. But even in the ache of unmet expectations, grace meets us where we are.

Preaching After the Poet

In the wake of Walter Brueggemann’s passing, we’re left with his challenge: Preach not to explain but to evoke. Not to tame but to testify.

Pastoring in the Age of Deconstruction

Not all deconstruction is the same. A pastor offers three categories to help you listen better and shepherd well.

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