By Stan Friedman

CHICAGO, IL (February 26, 2013) – Many Covenanters routinely share links to social media articles and videos with one another that Covenant News Service believes may be of interest to others. Following is a sample of those submissions – their inclusion does not represent an endorsement of any views expressed.

Top Five Elements for a Church Site – This is an excellent quick primer of what should be on a website. Since I look at church websites nearly every day, I can say he is correct that many churches fail to include at least some of this basic information. I was glad to see some Covenanters said they had checked their own sites. I would add a sixth – put pictures of your church actually doing ministry. By far, the majority of church websites I see have pictures that only feature the building or nice people posing.

Tim Tebow Cancels Appearance at Church of Controversial Pastor – I know you’re probably thinking, “Not another story about Tim Tebow and his faith,” but this one led to a broader discussion about what is the best way to respond to situations and voices we consider intolerant.

Why Aren’t Your Students Doing Your Job? – The author states, “In terms of development and maturity in America, age twenty-six is the new eighteen.” Part of the solution is for youth pastors to be sure they heavily involve teens in the congregation’s ministry. Whether you agree with his thesis about delayed maturity, he makes an important point about mentorship, which I know our Department of Christian Formation emphasizes.

Mumford & Sons, God and the New Sincerity – “Say what you will, but after the (Grammy Awards) died down and the top honor of the night went to Mumford & Sons’ album Babel, at least one thing is clear: We are in the midst of the New Sincerity.” It’s now really cool for Indie artists to sing about God, as long as you’re raising questions, authentic, and earnest. They’re the emergents (remember that word) of the current music scene.

Large Churches Doing Well Despite Recession – The flailing economy has hurt the finances of many churches, but a majority of large congregations have seen giving increase, and 75 percent are expecting to add staff and expand their ministries, according to a newly released report. The report also found that as church size increases for congregations with attendance between 1,000 and 10,000, giving per person decreases. The website highlights the report through an infographic, but also links to the full document. The story is not about whether large churches are “better” than smaller congregations.

Editor’s note: If you have a link you would like considered for publication, please email Covenant Communications.