by Barry Howard | Nov 6, 2017 | Opinion
I inherited a few traditions early in my ministry that were common in southern rural churches. These included giving carnations to mothers on Mother’s Day, inviting members to walk forward to put their “birthday offering for the children’s...
by Barry Howard | Oct 23, 2017 | Opinion
A pastor may be deeply committed, extraordinarily faithful, highly educated and extremely hard working, but for a pastor to be effective and durable, a pastor must practice healthy self-care. Self-care includes developing and maintaining good physical, spiritual and...
by Barry Howard | Jun 7, 2017 | Opinion
One of the most enriching and fatiguing things about church life these days is the vast diversity within most local congregations. During some recent days of self-reflection and ministry evaluation, I spent some time thinking about why I feel more fatigued these days...
by Barry Howard | Jan 18, 2017 | Opinion
Donald John Trump will be sworn in as the 45th president of the United States on Friday, Jan. 20. Regardless of who we voted for, it is imperative for people of faith to pray for our new president and for other local, state and national leaders. Our nation will be...
by Barry Howard | Dec 23, 2016 | Opinion
A unique item sits in First Baptist Pensacola’s sanctuary amid all of the Christmas decorations. The poinsettias are ablaze with holiday red, and the crèche is in the window for all to see. The Advent wreath is in place and we are on our countdown toward...
