Why is it that pastors find it so hard to talk about money? In this episode, we're joined by Steve Matthews (Stewardship) and Naomi Buckler (Cheerful Giving, FICO) as we explore what a healthy giving culture looks like, and what steps we can take towards it.Mentioned in this episode:Stewardship - https://stwdshp.org/gapCheerful Giving - https://naomibuckler0.wixsite.com/cheerfulgivingFICO - Fundraisers in Christian Organisations - https://ciof.org.uk/about-us/regional-and-special-interest-groups/ficoGivingTraining - https://givingtraining.org/Stewardship Generosity Report - https://www.stewardship.org.uk/generosity-reportJourney of Generosity - https://generousgiving.org/events/jog/The Generosity Project - https://matthiasmedia.com.au/pages/the-generosity-projectSt John’s Hayden Wick - https://www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk/Podcast - Not Another One (Politics) - https://shows.acast.com/not-another-onePodcast - This is History - https://open.spotify.com/show/2OwTnxm4YpB6mH0tLVYc2sHuge thanks to Stewardship for sponsoring this series - https://stwdshp.org/gapFind out more about the show - GPpodcast.ukLike and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk00:00 Introduction and Icebreakers03:28 Guest Introductions and Backgrounds06:21 Challenges in Church Finances12:19 The Role of Money in Church Mission16:12 Examples of Successful Church Giving Practices20:01 Generational Trends in Giving24:31 Transforming Attitudes Towards Money29:35 Practical Resources for Churches33:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode, we explore the idea of welcoming people in to church, and the impact it can make to the experience of our visitors. We think through the who's and how's and offer some practical tips to help us all to welcome better.Huge thanks to our series sponsor, Stewardship - https://stwdshp.org/gapMentioned in this episode:- G&P Episode 34 — Through the eyes of a newcomer - https://gppodcast.uk/episode/episode-34-through-the-eyes-of-a-newcomer/- Churchsuite - https://churchsuite.com/Find out more about the show - GPpodcast.ukLike and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk00:00 The Importance of Welcoming in Church00:59 Creating a Warm Atmosphere06:30 Systems for Effective Welcoming09:19 Visibility of Welcomeers During Service12:09 Asking the Right Questions16:01 Welcoming Beyond the Door18:25 Cultivating a Culture of Welcoming
In this episode, we meet with Richard Coekin from Reach Ministries to talk all things church growth and planting - even down to designing your church building.Huge thanks to our series sponsor, Stewardship - https://stwdshp.org/gapMentioned in this episode:- Reach Ministries - https://reachministries.uk/- Podcast - The Rest is History - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p0d0mj5v- The Church Office - https://www.thechurchoffice.co.uk/- CPAS - https://www.cpas.org.uk/- Reach Australia - https://reachaustralia.com.au/Find out more about the show - GPpodcast.ukLike and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk00:00 Introduction and Icebreakers01:16 Getting to Know Richard Coekin02:57 Richard's Journey: From Law to Ministry06:25 The Growth of Dundonald Church09:47 Planting Churches and the Reach Initiative14:57 The Vision of Reach Ministries19:39 Practical Ministry: Addressing Real Needs21:40 Acts 6 Agenda: Learning and Delegation25:59 Building Teams for Effective Ministry27:31 The Importance of Communication in Church33:06 Designing Church Spaces for Outreach36:26 Vision and Future Planning for Growth39:37 The Role of Technology in Church Communication
We're back next week with more church comms tips for UK churches and even a new sponsor!Find out more about the show - https://gppodcast.uk/Like and follow us on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
In this episode, Joe and Hannah are joined by founder of WMT and host of the Worship Ministry Training Podcast, Alex Enfiedjian.The episode covers the significance of worship in church communications: critically, that worship is more than just music and a vital part of church life!We also think about the role of worship leaders, the challenges they face, and the importance of training and equipping them for effective ministry, beyond just skilled musicianship.Free worship essentials course: https://www.worshipministrytraining.com/essentialsAbout Alex:https://www.worshipministrytraining.com/https://www.facebook.com/WorshipMinistryTrainingMentioned in this episode:The Bible Recap Podcast - https://www.thebiblerecap.com/aboutAmen Podcast - https://amenpodcast.com/WMT Episode - Why Skill Matters in Worship https://www.worshipministrytraining.com/why-skill-matters-in-worship/Find out more about the show - GPpodcast.ukLike and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
In this episode, Hannah and Joe discuss the importance of video content in modern church communication, particularly focusing on the rise of vertical video formats and how platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts can be leveraged to engage audiences with your church’s content.The chat covers various types of content that can be created, the significance of understanding algorithms for better reach, and the need for churches to align their content strategies with their mission and vision. They also provide practical tips for getting started with video content creation, encouraging churches to embrace this medium to connect with their communities.Mentioned in this episode:G&P Ep 33: Repurposing your content the easy way - https://gppodcast.uk/episode/episode-33-repurposing-your-content-the-easy-way/G&P Ep 40: The power of storytelling - https://gppodcast.uk/episode/episode-40-the-power-of-storytelling/Talking about LinkedIn with Josh in G&P Ep 44: Comms and Vision – 3 ‘short’ interviews! - https://gppodcast.uk/episode/episode-44-comms-and-vision-3-short-interviews/Capcut - https://www.capcut.com/Canva - https://www.canva.com/en_gb/Opus Clip - https://www.opus.pro/Find out more about the show - GPpodcast.ukLike and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
In this episode, Joe and Hannah are joined by Dan Rous, AKA Community Dan!Dan shares about his journey as a church and community developer, highlighting the importance of reconnecting churches with their communities. He discusses the challenges churches face in engaging with those around them and the to adapt to modern societal changes, whilst still staying focused on God’s unchanging truth.We cover the significance of understanding community needs, the difference between the business of church and church business, and the common mistakes churches make when trying to grow.About Dan:https://www.communitydan.co.uk/https://www.facebook.com/CommunityDanhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/communitydan/https://bsky.app/profile/communitydan.bsky.socialMentioned in this episode:Pure 24/7 Radio - https://www.pure247radio.org/Men’s Health Matters Podcast - https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/zsqsa-2a0f8f/Men%27s-Health-Matters-PodcastBTA Charity Voices podcast - https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1906799.rssCamerados Movement - https://camerados.org/Find out more about the show - GPpodcast.ukLike and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
In this episode, Joe and Hannah explore various aspects of church life that often go unnoticed but are crucial for creating an inclusive and welcoming environment. They share personal anecdotes, discuss the importance of accessibility, sound quality, comfort, and effective communication — as well as the need for proper volunteer management and crisis planning.The conversation highlights the significance of small details in enhancing the overall church experience and fostering a sense of community.Mentioned in this episode:G&P Episode — Special Guest: James Doc of Kingdom Code - https://gppodcast.uk/episode/bonus-episode-special-guest-james-doc-of-kingdom-code/Churchsuite - https://churchsuite.com/Ekklesia - https://www.ekklesiasolutions.com/Find out more about the show - https://gppodcast.uk/Like and follow us on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
In this special guest episode we chat with Maria Warren, an HR business owner and consultant. Maria shares her insights on the unique challenges and opportunities that churches face in managing human resources. She discusses the importance of strategic HR, effective communication, and the need for churches to support their volunteers and staff.We also particularly highlight the significance of conflict resolution in fostering a healthy church environment. Maria’s passion for integrating HR practices within the church context is evident as she provides practical advice for church leaders.Find out more about the show - https://gppodcast.uk/Like and follow us on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
In this episode, Hannah and Joe discuss the significance of church communications in the modern world. They explore the various reasons churches may resist engaging with digital platforms, including theological concerns, resource limitations, and fear of criticism. The discussion emphasises the need for churches to adapt their communication strategies to meet the changing cultural dynamics and to effectively reach their communities. Find out more about the show - https://gppodcast.uk/Like and follow us on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
In this episode, Joe and Hannah explore the dynamics of church meetings, emphasizing the importance of effective communication, leadership, and engagement. The hosts discuss strategies for preparing agendas, leading meetings, involving participants, and creating a positive atmosphere, all while incorporating prayer into the process. The aim is to make church meetings more productive and enjoyable for all attendees.Find out more about the show - https://gppodcast.uk/Like and follow us on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
In this episode, we delve into a topic many prefer to avoid: budgets for church communications. Hannah and Joe discuss the challenges churches face managing limited resources, such as money, volunteers, and time. We offer practical tips on prioritizing spending to align with your church's mission, making efficient use of digital and print communications, and ensuring investments in essential tools like websites and live streaming equipment.Mentioned in this episode:- Canva for Nonprofits- Google Workspace for NonprofitsFind out more about the show - GPpodcast.ukLike and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
Insights from The Church Office!Join us as we welcome Gavin Smith from the Church Office podcast for a crossover episode packed with insights and laughs.We dive into the intricacies of church management and administration, discussing everything from Gavin's career journey to the cultural impacts of administrative roles in church settings. Gavin also shares his favorite podcasts and his preferred social media platforms.Mentioned in this episode:- The Church Office Podcast- Lead Culture Podcast by Jenni Catron- The Volunteer Effect by Jason Young and Jonathan MalmFind out more about the show - GPpodcast.ukLike and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
Join us for a special collaboration with the Church Office podcast.In this episode, Gavin Smith invites us to discuss the critical behind-the-scenes work of church administration and communications. Joe and Hannah share insights on the importance of strategy, tools, and community in church comms, as well as telling the story of how the Gourds & Pomegranates podcast came about.Mentioned in this episode:The Church Office - https://www.thechurchoffice.co.uk/podcastsChurchSuiteFind out more about the show - GPpodcast.ukLike and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
In this episode, Hannah and Joe tackle a series of rapid-fire questions commonly posed within church communications communities.From practical tips on designing effective welcome cards to managing last-minute event changes and understanding GDPR implications for digital communications, this episode delivers concise, actionable solutions for common church comms challenges.Mentioned in this episode: G&P Resources Page — https://gppodcast.uk/resources/ (includes Church Comms Facebook Communities) OpenLP — Free Worship Presentation SoftwareEpisode 28 — Benefits of Using Worship Projection Software Facebook's Guidelines for Ad TargetingExplore more about the show and access detailed resources - GPpodcast.ukConnect with our community and follow updates - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
We're back! And we've been baking... something... podcast, it's a podcast.Tune in next week for Series 6, covering all sorts of church comms goodness, including comms budgets, how to run a successful church meeting, do churches need to be thinking about HR (yes!), reconnecting church and community, worship in church and more.The first episode (well, 51st...) will be covering some of your burning church comms questions in a quickfire style. It's gonna be great. See you there!
Episode 50 — Our top 10 church comms tips of all time ever!! In this special celebratory episode, we go through our top tips for churches in how they communicate, with a few bonus mentions and highlights thrown in. We cover prioritisation, excellence, planning, stories, people… and more! We’ll refer back to a lot of previous episodes, which are listed below for your ease of finding them! Bonus - Favourite G&P Moments: G&P Episode 31 — Asking the big questions (Part 1) G&P Episode 18 — Church Case Study – New Life Church G&P Episode 44 — Comms & Vision Bonus - Favourite Church Comms Moments: Glastonbury Primary School Bangers https://www.instagram.com/p/C8zHUUts614/?hl=en ‘We’re tired of making content. Just come to church.’ 90s church graphic designers https://www.instagram.com/p/C7PNNtAMBg-/?hl=en Lots of tiktok trends Worship fails - https://www.instagram.com/p/C8zrtdqJN5j/?hl=en Mentioned Episodes: G&P Episode 11 — Is it worth the time? G&P Episode 21 — Do we really need sermon series graphics? G&P Episode 9 — Terrible Church Posters G&P Episode 38 — Tips for church PowerPoint design G&P Episode 41 — What does excellence look like in church comms?) G&P Episode 5 — Where do we start?! Creating a comms plan (Part 1) G&P Episode 10 — Christmas… but NEXT Christmas?! G&P Episode 7 — Don’t ignore photography G&P Episode 13 — Scheduling 101 – Building a social media content plan G&P Episode 10: Christmas but Next Christmas — The Anti-Panic Christmas Publicity Guide! G&P Episode 40 — The power of storytelling G&P Episode 16 — Save me from bad church websites! G&P Episode 25 — Blogs on church websites – an essential feature or a waste of time? G&P Episode 39 — Do churches need to worry about SEO? G&P Episode 20 — Look after your communicators G&P Episode 36 — Digital vs. Face to Face Communication G&P Episode 34 — Through the eyes of a newcomer G&P Episode 47 - All of our favourite church comms resources (Favourite Tools/Resources Part 7) G&P Episode 33 — Repurposing your content the easy way G&P Episode 7 — Don’t ignore photography G&P Episode 37 — Do we have to use video? G&P Episode 15 — Our Favourite Tools/Resources (Part 3) G&P Episode 23 — Should we still be livestreaming? G&P Episode 14 — Cover It In Prayer Find out more about the show - GPpodcast.uk Like and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
In this episode, we think about the dreaded task of knocking on people’s doors and the general role that print publicity can play as part of a church communications strategy. Mentioned in this episode: G&P Episode 9 — Terrible Church Posters Canva Training Trio Webinar Canva G&P Episode 41 — What does excellence look like in church comms? Find out more about the show - GPpodcast.uk Like and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
Trigger Warning: Spiritual AbuseIn this episode, we discuss Spiritual Abuse. What is it and what can we do to recognise and avoid it, whilst communicating with sensitivity to those who have been hurt.Mentioned in this episode: Book - Marcus Honeysett - Powerful Leaders Diary of a CEO - Stephen BartlettFind Francesca online:www.linktr.ee/ssa.restartwww.survivingspiritualabuse.comwww.amazon.co.uk/dp/1999985648/Other books relating to Spiritual Abuse:www.amazon.com/Othered-Finding-Belonging-Pursues-Marginalized/dp/1540903915/www.amazon.com/Subtle-Power-Spiritual-Abuse-Manipulation/dp/0764201379/Find out more about the show - GPpodcast.ukLike and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk
In this episode, we cover our favourite church comms resources. Gourds & Pomegranates is one of many resources aimed at churches, each with their own individual flavours and benefits. So as to best serve you, we’ve created a page at https://gppodcast.uk/resources where we’ll add any new resources we come across and try to keep things up to date. But for now… mentioned in this episode (hold your breath!): Church Comms Communities Church comms collective Church Communications Church Social Media Managers Church Comms Resources Church Marketing Sucks Pro Church Tools (Brady Shearer) Unseminary (Rich Birch) First Time Guest Gifts: 26 Lessons from 33 Churches Church Communications Blog Top 5 Resources Every Church Communications Director Needs The Church Comms Handbook G&P Episode 12 — Benjamin Lyon ChurchTrain Church Juice 14 Church Communication Resources to Save You Time and Money Dave Adamson Book - Meta Church John Truscott Communication Resources Church Comm - Justin Dean Ekklesia 360 — Top Resources for Church Communicators Non comms orgs that have comms resources such as: Donorbox Church Communications Tithely Blog Buffer Resources from Denominations/specific churches Church of England Digital Labs Blogs Baptist Union Supporting Church Communication Baptist Union First Friday FIEC Digital Communications for Local Churches G&P Episode 27 — Joel Murray Methodist Digital Church Life.Church Communications for Churches (Videos) Like and follow us on Facebook - facebook.com/GPPodcast.uk