<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" version="2.0"><channel><title><![CDATA[Becoming Bridge Builders]]></title><description><![CDATA[This blog provides relevant thought-provoking content. It covers leadership development, ministry concepts, and organizational change best practices. ]]></description><link>https://www.becomingbridgebuilders.org/blog</link><generator>RSS for Node</generator><lastBuildDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 15:57:36 GMT</lastBuildDate><atom:link href="https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/blog-feed.xml" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><item><title><![CDATA[Three Ways to Bridge the Faith Divide]]></title><description><![CDATA[A wooden bridge stretches across a tranquil river, symbolizing the journey to overcome barriers and connect with what lies beyond. 13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, 15 but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/three-ways-to-bridge-the-faith-divide</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69fb5d7d8a769b9e6e00610d</guid><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 15:40:39 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/158d4f_6ae94f1fd0a049babd79bf84f4d3cc6b~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_1000,h_768,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[A Missional Approach to Church Planting]]></title><description><![CDATA[Elegant stained glass windows illuminate the narthex of a church, casting colorful patterns across the pews and intricate hanging lamps. The heart of church planting isn't just about starting a new service or finding a building; it’s about outward-facing evangelism. To truly reach those outside the faith, we have to move past the "attractional" model—where we build it and hope they come—and embrace a missional mindset. As we look toward the future of the LCMS and the wider Church, our goal...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/a-missional-approach-to-church-planting</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69f36d74c99eb1cb510b24bf</guid><category><![CDATA[Ministry Ideas]]></category><pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 13:00:21 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/53e280fd1e57432381a148dacb54bb6f.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Caring for Those Who Serve: Building a Culture of Wellness in Lutheran Congregations]]></title><description><![CDATA[A man sits in serene meditation, facing the vast ocean as the gentle waves create a calming backdrop. By Rev. Dr. B. Keith Haney In nearly every Lutheran congregation, ministry moves forward because faithful people show up—day after day—to preach, teach, visit, organize, pray, counsel, and serve. Pastors, deaconesses, church staff, educators, musicians, and volunteers carry Christ’s love into countless unseen moments of care. Yet many who serve the Church do so while quietly carrying...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/caring-for-those-who-serve-building-a-culture-of-wellness-in-lutheran-congregations</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69da7922f955c1c966266c38</guid><pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:00:09 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_59a923cd037b4bc49c063b72636ef169~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[New Ideas for the Historic Church: Embracing Change with Purpose]]></title><description><![CDATA[Understanding the Historic Church's Mission How do we define the historic church? The LCMS teaches that the Church exists where the Gospel is purely taught and the Sacraments are rightly administered. Its mission is the proclamation of the Gospel to the world (cf. Of the Church and Of the Mission of the Church). The LCMS affirms that the Church’s purpose is the ministry of Word and Sacrament, through which the Holy Spirit creates and sustains faith. Furthermore, the LCMS teaches that the...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/fresh-ideas-for-the-historic-church-five-steps-to-embrace-change</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69b0826422bc04bb87f9aca2</guid><pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:00:09 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/158d4f_19bc2da6bb0240efa957c9771785a366~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Missions is More Than a Tagline]]></title><description><![CDATA[Silent and serene, the empty church invites reflection as sunlight filters through its stained glass windows.   In my previous call, we had the Northern Illinois District has a cool tagline,  New Starts…New Believers (NSNB).  For twelve years, it was the guiding vision for our district missions.  We set aggressive goals 125 new church plants by the 500 th anniversary of the Reformation.  Unfortunately, we did not reach those lofty goals, but God allowed us to see church leaders,...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/missions-is-more-than-a-tagline</link><guid isPermaLink="false">69a2277832a596f2a27d0269</guid><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 12:00:35 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/81dab3962ad54f4a83e0657ccbba7999.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Becoming a Personal Bridge Becoming a personal bridge builder means connecting people, ideas, and cultures to encourage understanding and growth.Builder : A Journey of Connection and Growth]]></title><description><![CDATA[Today, it can feel like the world is divided. Being someone who brings people together is more important than ever. Becoming a personal bridge builder means connecting people, ideas, and cultures to encourage understanding and growth. This journey is personal and can change you, calling for self-awareness, empathy, and courage. It’s about moving beyond your comfort zone to form connections that make life better for you and those around you. Taking Steps to Become a Personal Bridge Becoming a...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/becoming-a-personal-bridge-becoming-a-personal-bridge-builder-means-connecting-people-ideas-and-cu</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6983d0e94ef7940ceeeff983</guid><category><![CDATA[Leadership Development]]></category><pubDate>Sun, 08 Feb 2026 21:47:59 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/158d4f_862a425efb064821a2c1d92b53d90ed4~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_1000,h_768,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Praying with Scripture: Unlocking the Power of God's Word in Prayer]]></title><description><![CDATA[Prayer is a vital part of spiritual life, a way to communicate with God and deepen our relationship with Him. One of the most powerful ways to pray is by using Scripture itself. Praying with Scripture allows us to align our hearts with God's promises, His will, and His truth. It transforms our prayers from mere words into declarations of faith rooted in the Bible. In this post, we will explore how to pray with Scripture effectively, why it matters, and practical steps to incorporate God's...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/praying-with-scripture-unlocking-the-power-of-god-s-word-in-prayer</link><guid isPermaLink="false">696fd4a08067b29f7ce5f498</guid><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 12:01:08 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/158d4f_bf50c30613b04c6cb057f6a9dfda062c~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_1000,h_768,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nurturing Leadership Through Faith: A Guide for Christian Parents]]></title><description><![CDATA[by Corinne Hammond Christian leaders and ministry workers dedicated to faith-based parenting often face a quiet challenge: raising children who not only embrace their beliefs but also develop the confidence to lead. In today’s world, nurturing spiritual leadership from an early age goes beyond teaching scripture—it shapes the character and resilience that future generations need. When parents recognize and nurture children’s leadership potential within a Christian context, they establish...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/how-christian-parents-can-nurture-leadership-and-faith-in-their-children</link><guid isPermaLink="false">697217779f5bcea2284e9080</guid><category><![CDATA[Guest Bloggers]]></category><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:33:26 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7e37c1ea5a2f4218b359b53252002519.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Church Outreach Ideas: Four Fresh Ways to Connect With Your Community in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[A row of lightbulbs, with one brightly illuminated, symbolizes the power of ideas and the spark of creativity during brainstorming sessions. As churches enter 2026, outreach looks different from what it did just a few years ago. Communities are more digitally connected, more diverse in their needs, and more interested in authenticity and real impact. Churches that flourish at outreach now require a blend of timeless relational ministry and forward-thinking strategies that meet people where...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/church-outreach-ideas-four-fresh-ways-to-connect-with-your-community-in-2026</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6962712f90713a6305d123d5</guid><category><![CDATA[Ministry Ideas]]></category><pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:30:08 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/8739d2d99dbd55fa18b5deac40af94fa.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_960,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Significance of Becoming a Bridge Builder: The Power of Connection]]></title><description><![CDATA[In a world that often feels divided, the idea of becoming a bridge  holds profound significance. It symbolizes the power to connect, unite, and foster understanding between different people, ideas, or communities. This concept goes beyond physical structures; it represents a mindset and a way of living that embraces empathy, communication, and collaboration. The Symbolism of Becoming a Bridge in Our Lives Bridges are more than just architectural feats; they are powerful metaphors for...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/the-symbolism-of-becoming-a-bridge-the-power-of-connection</link><guid isPermaLink="false">695416ad4158de223fa2ae7f</guid><pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2026 02:59:58 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/158d4f_f2aee84ffe5042ac8ee0050c66d1e784~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_1000,h_768,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Exploring the Jesus Birth Stable History: A Journey to the Nativity Site]]></title><description><![CDATA[The story of Jesus' birth is one of the most cherished narratives in history. Central to this story is the humble setting where it all began - a stable. This place, often depicted in nativity scenes worldwide, holds deep spiritual and historical significance. Exploring the Jesus birth stable history offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient traditions, biblical accounts, and archaeological findings. This article will guide you through the origins, significance, and the physical...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/exploring-the-jesus-birth-stable-history-a-journey-to-the-nativity-site</link><guid isPermaLink="false">694ada19922cfc95692c8f08</guid><category><![CDATA[A Time of Reflection]]></category><pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2025 17:00:40 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/158d4f_b7b4bc53e02846bf8c1b664b4ee02b4b~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_1000,h_768,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Importance of Teaching Stewardship for Spiritual Growth and Mission Advancement]]></title><description><![CDATA[Stewardship: Nurturing Generosity and Spiritual Growth in the Church Stewardship is often thought of as just managing money, but its true meaning goes much farther than that. Teaching stewardship is about discipleship and shaping how believers see everything they have—time, talents, and treasure—as gifts entrusted by God to fulfill His purposes in His Church. This understanding changes hearts, encourages mission, promotes generosity, and deepens spiritual growth. Understanding why teaching...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/the-importance-of-teaching-stewardship-for-spiritual-growth-and-mission-advancement</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6931bed06778c81fbc361b46</guid><pubDate>Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:00:20 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/158d4f_6268cea39f104311b60f5c40533945cd~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_1000,h_768,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Spiritual Significance of Advent and Its Traditions]]></title><description><![CDATA[Advent marks the start of the Christian Church year and invites believers into a season of hope and anticipation. This period of four weeks before Christmas is not just about preparing for a holiday but about reflecting on the profound account of Christ—celebrating His birth and looking forward to His promised return. Each moment of Advent offers a chance to pause from the demand of life, slow down, focus on faith, and embrace the deep spiritual themes that shape Christian life. Advent wreath...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/the-spiritual-significance-of-advent-and-its-traditions</link><guid isPermaLink="false">692f152265a8cdd6a8fba50d</guid><category><![CDATA[A Time of Reflection]]></category><pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2025 12:00:43 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/158d4f_9f574682ecb84e69897fc9cd66e5817f~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_1000,h_768,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Beyond Words: How Learning and Communication Shape Extraordinary Leaders]]></title><description><![CDATA[By Corinne Hammond A dynamic speaker energizes a large audience, raising his hands in a gesture of enthusiasm and engagement. Leadership isn’t born—it’s built. From boardrooms to classrooms, the ability to inspire, guide, and communicate across different perspectives and even languages defines how far a person or organization can go. Whether you manage a small team or lead a global initiative, developing leadership is a lifelong process of awareness, empathy, cultural understanding, and...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/beyond-words-how-learning-and-communication-shape-extraordinary-leaders</link><guid isPermaLink="false">692efed4d566b35f04af33e9</guid><category><![CDATA[Guest Bloggers]]></category><pubDate>Tue, 02 Dec 2025 15:06:49 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_ffe3ec2e2d7f49ac850ae644674d504f~mv2.jpeg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Three Spiritual Practices to Embrace This Christmas Season]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Christmas season often feels like a whirlwind of shopping, parties, and endless to-do lists. Yet, beneath the festive rush lies a deeper invitation: to prepare our hearts and minds for the true meaning of Christmas. This season offers a unique chance to reconnect spiritually, to slow down, and to embrace the hope and joy that the birth of Christ brings. Here are three practical ways to spiritually prepare for Christmas that can help you experience the season with greater peace and...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/three-spiritual-practices-to-embrace-this-christmas-season</link><guid isPermaLink="false">6929a411e47f4b28d10da1bf</guid><category><![CDATA[A Time of Reflection]]></category><pubDate>Fri, 28 Nov 2025 13:33:31 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/158d4f_7c4ae27aa2b8436c904b5c41a0628c80~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_1000,h_768,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Reclaiming Your Leadership Voice ]]></title><description><![CDATA[Leadership calls for clarity, courage, and conviction. Yet, even the strongest leaders can find their voice fading over time. The unique way you inspire, guide, and influence others can be weakened by the pressures of life. If you have ever felt muted or uncertain in your leadership role, you are not alone. Many leaders face challenges that chip away at their confidence and clarity. This post explores three common ways a leader’s voice gets damaged and offers a three-step plan to restore it,...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/reclaiming-your-leadership-voice-after-stress-trauma-and-anxiety</link><guid isPermaLink="false">691b46144885233fabd4946a</guid><category><![CDATA[Leadership Development]]></category><pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2025 17:23:42 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/158d4f_33b407a61dd84e1f8eebacbc4f89fdf4~mv2.png/v1/fit/w_1000,h_768,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Kingdom Impact of Invitation:]]></title><description><![CDATA[What 2,000 Unchurched People Told Us—and What Church Leaders Can Do About It Luxurious red invitation sealed with an elegant embossed wax seal, exuding sophistication and exclusivity. A recent survey conducted by LifeWay Research in partnership with the Wheaton College Billy Graham Center revealed something both encouraging and challenging for church leaders: unchurched people are more open to attending church than we might think—if someone simply invites them. 55%  of respondents said they...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/the-power-of-invitation</link><guid isPermaLink="false">690bbdb38de3a65c6f2f0287</guid><category><![CDATA[Ministry Ideas]]></category><pubDate>Thu, 06 Nov 2025 12:00:08 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_0cf8901a677542118140122111bd1d87~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[ How to Organize a Charity Walk Fundraiser (and Why You Should)]]></title><description><![CDATA[Volunteers at a Charity Walk A charity walk fundraiser is more than just a community stroll—it’s a powerful, visible statement of support that can generate real impact for causes that matter. Whether you're supporting local nonprofits, raising awareness for medical research, or helping fund youth programs, a well-run walk brings people together with purpose. The beauty of this format is its flexibility: it works in small towns and large cities, for niche causes and broad campaigns alike. It's...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/how-to-organize-a-charity-walk-fundraiser-and-why-you-should</link><guid isPermaLink="false">68ff7967e3b0149559d12a5b</guid><category><![CDATA[Ministry Ideas]]></category><pubDate>Wed, 29 Oct 2025 12:00:42 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/857f1d196df74c998c59ec36751dda2d.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_922,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Key Qualities to Look for in a Mentor]]></title><description><![CDATA[A woman guides her colleague through a task on the laptop, exemplifying supportive mentorship in the workplace. Finding the right mentor can be a transformative experience, whether you're just starting out in your career or navigating a major life transition. A great mentor doesn’t just offer advice—they inspire growth, challenge your thinking, and help you unlock your potential. But what makes a mentor truly effective? Here are the key qualities to look for: 1. Experience and Expertise A...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/the-key-qualities-to-look-for-in-a-mentor</link><guid isPermaLink="false">68fa1c4f94cca4a8cf1ebf2b</guid><pubDate>Mon, 27 Oct 2025 12:03:05 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_2ca4c881ed024ce89b57d29ffbaeb1f3~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starting a New Church Life Cycle: A Fresh Vision for Ministry]]></title><description><![CDATA[Intricate stained glass window casts soft light into the serene, empty church, highlighting its architectural elegance and tranquility. The life cycle of a church—like any living organism—includes birth, growth, maturity, and sometimes decline. But what happens when a church reaches a plateau or begins to lose momentum? Starting a new church life cycle is a strategic and spiritual process that can breathe fresh life into a congregation and re-engage the community it serves. 1. Discern the...]]></description><link>https://keithhaney6573.wixsite.com/barebones/post/starting-a-new-church-life-cycle-a-fresh-vision-for-ministry</link><guid isPermaLink="false">68ee45758637fd34b941555d</guid><category><![CDATA[Leadership Development]]></category><pubDate>Tue, 14 Oct 2025 12:47:39 GMT</pubDate><enclosure url="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_dc80fa94547d4ecc8d46bf4074683d37~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_1000,h_1000,al_c,q_80/file.png" length="0" type="image/png"/><dc:creator>Keith Haney</dc:creator></item></channel></rss>