August 1, 2025

This edition is sponsored by Gloo AI Chat

Dear Pastor,

There are seasons in ministry that feel like a long, hard wrestle:

With ministry.

With institutions.

With God himself.

This week, we’re sharing two articles that meet you in those tensions.

In the first, we look at what happens when faithful church members start wondering whether their denomination still reflects their values or convictions—and what it looks like to walk with them patiently and pastorally.

In the second, a pastor whose church planting dreams were once crushed reflects on the dark cave of burnout and despair, and the gentle voice of God that met him there. It’s a reminder that sometimes, when we feel like quitting, God may just be getting started.

These aren’t easy pieces. But they’re honest. And we hope they meet you where you are.

Grace and strength to you this week,

Chris Poblete
Editorial director for CT Pastors

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More pastoral resources

What YouTube Can’t Teach Students About Jesus

College students are being catechized by YouTube. Here’s how the church can offer something richer—and more real.

Let Your Church Feast on Scripture this Fall

For pastors used to more topical preaching, research confirms what you’re sensing—people crave biblical depth, and fall gives you the consistency to deliver it.

Would Jesus Flip Our Tables?

Jesus flipped over what was blocking people from prayer. What needs clearing out in our churches today?

The Letters That Shaped Me

Some ministry lessons come through seminary. Others come in envelopes.

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