The Ministerial Practice and Functions section of the Manual provides supporting resources, research material, and reference content for Christian ministry. It is designed to supplement teaching and practice by offering data, definitions, tools, and research that inform sound decision making and thoughtful study. This section functions as a reference library rather than a formational guide.
Ministry practice requires more than conviction alone. Faithful service also depends on accurate information, clear terminology, and awareness of current challenges facing the Church. This section exists to support ministers, leaders, and students as they evaluate ministry contexts, plan responsibly, and respond wisely to practical concerns within their calling.
Use this section as a reference library to support informed and thoughtful ministry.
By Michael Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder Let’s face it, there is no fun in correcting people or telling them that they are wrong about something… However, if you are in ministry, or especially a pastor, you are bound to have to do it sometime. Consider …
By Michael Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder When it comes to church or ministry planning, there is always a very important perspective to consider: What if God is or is not in it? Does success mean blessing? Does failure mean you did not choose the path of …
By Michael Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder Have you ever made it a habit of asking God for His favor? I find that many believers have never thought to include this request in their daily prayers. Yet, we can miss great opportunities simply because we fail to ask (James …
By Michael Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder Whether you are a pastor, minister, or in any other form of leadership there always seems to be disconnects between leadership wants and the desires of those they serve. In retail settings the age-old philosophy of service is expressed …
By Michael Mooney, Exec. Elder The goals of a Christian Leader are: 1) To help others discover and develop their gifts 2) To guide others to a heart of service The leader (in any organization) should be a facilitator. One who empowers others to reach their …
By Michael Mooney, Exec. Elder Introduction In a rapidly changing world, the church faces the challenge of connecting with the younger generation, particularly Gen Z, who are growing up in a digital age marked by diverse perspectives and unprecedented access to information. Reaching out to Gen …
Christian chaplain training is not simply about acquiring information. It is about preparation for presence in moments where pain, fear, grief, and loss converge. The National Association of Christian Ministers provides an official and structured pathway for Christian chaplain training through its NACM Christian Chaplaincy …
Michael Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder After ordination into ministry, one of the most common questions ministers ask is: “How do I reach people?” My natural response is to ask them, “Have you asked God for people to reach?” After all, Jesus clearly said “Ask, …
By Michael Mooney, Exec. Elder Often people sense a call of God to ministry. That inner summons can be quiet and persistent, or it can feel like a spiritual alarm clock that refuses to be silenced. Either way, when a man or woman becomes convinced that …
By Michael Mooney, Exec. Elder Intrinsic rewards are the experiences of satisfaction after the internal drive toward specific goals. In other words, they are rewards (such as personal development, or achievement) linked to performing job functions (Mahaney & Lederer, 2006). Report Michael Maccoby (2010) is the …