Is Grace Church Becoming Too Catholic?

by Derek Sanford | Mar 25, 2026 | Uncategorized

Somebody recently asked me a version of this question. They were gracious about it, but the concern was real: “Why are we doing Ash Wednesday? Why Lent? Why Stations of the Cross? This all feels a little too… Catholic.” I’m glad they asked. Because...

Should Christians Still Tithe? [And Other Tricky Financial Questions]

by Derek Sanford | Feb 4, 2026 | Uncategorized

How the Tithe Became a Tip “The tithe isn’t required for New Testament Christians.” This sentiment has become a rally cry for many a church-member. And while an argument can be made for the truth of this statement, it is most often used as an excuse to give little or...

Why Do Christians Pray in Jesus’ Name?

by Derek Sanford | Jan 12, 2026 | Uncategorized

If you are a praying Christian, you’ve probably said these words thousands of times. “In Jesus’ name … amen.” If you haven’t thought about it too deeply, you may just think these four words are a way to signal that your prayer is wrapping up....

Rethinking the Christmas Church Invitation

by Derek Sanford | Dec 9, 2025 | Uncategorized

Every year around this time, churches gear up for Christmas Eve. It’s one of the biggest opportunities we have. The stats are familiar: most people who don’t attend church would actually come if someone invited them. So it’s prime season for inviting. But...

How to Find Your Way Back To God [After Falling Away]

by Derek Sanford | Nov 5, 2025 | Uncategorized

My wife and I were driving from Pennsylvania to South Carolina right down the beautiful east coast of the great old U.S. of A. We were deep in conversation when I looked up and saw the shocking sign “Welcome to Tennessee.” Uhhhhh… that’s not on the way. Maybe you know...