Teresa J. Stewart
Author, Speaker, Teacher, ConsultantSmall congregations are my passion.
Small congregations are not big places in miniature. They work differently. With different challenges and with distinctive strengths not generally available in big settings.
For the past fifteen years, I’ve worked to unleash these small-setting strengths. By reclaiming rich varieties of lay leadership. And by recognizing that ministry today requires more than replicating big-setting successes.
It’s time for small congregations to become local laboratories, indigenous innovators, and good news diagnosticians for the mission of the whole Church—again.
How can I support your ministry with small congregations?
The Small Church Advantage
Seven powerful worship practices that work best in small settingsThe vast majority of congregations in the U.S. are small--with fewer than 100 weekly worshipers. This book introduces a powerful, unexpected set of tools: seven small-setting strengths in offering worship.
It’s designed to start a new conversation and guide a plan among pastors and laity.
7 worship strengths of small congregations
7 short lessons for the whole Church
3 unexpected conversations for small congregations to lead
Reviews of The Small Church Advantage
Tex Sample
F. Douglas Powe, Jr.
Wesley Theological Seminary
Susan Marie Smith
Episcopal Priest, Retired Professor of Worship,
Scholar of Lay Ministry
E Byron (Ron) Anderson
Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary
Mike Graves
William K. McElvaney Professor Emeritus of Preaching and Worship, Saint Paul School of Theology
Allen Stanton
Rebecca Stredney
Pastor, Great Plains Conference of the United Methodist Church
SmallChurch.org is a free online resource designed specifically for small congregations—both clergy and laity. It offers inspiration, stories from other congregations, practical ideas, theological insights, and periodic seasonal resources.
Worship Series
Lavish worship in small settings does not require pricey resources, high production, and expert performances. Instead, it calls for a different kind of deeply-forming participation. Led by laity and curated with the local gifts of each community.
These thematic series were written and designed specifically for small congregations. Each includes 4-6 weeks of complete, coordinated, hand-off-ready resources for lay leadership.
Reviews of Worship Series & Workshops
Worshiping, Led by a Child
A Distinctive Approach to Children in WorshipGood news: Children are neither worship watchers nor distractions. They are nothing less than precious worship collaborators and leaders.
In Worshiping, Led by a Child, Teresa teaches twelve adaptable models for worshiping with children—and letting them lead the work of the people.
For more information, contact Teresa at Teresa@SmallChurch.org.
She delights in offering these resources for conferences, workshops, and webinars.
Note that all teaching and speaking engagements should include laity; they are essential participants.