NEXT SUNDAY
Shaping the Churches of Tomorrow, Today
Welcome to Next Sunday, more than just a podcast—it's your vibrant community of forward-thinking church leaders. Our episodes are crafted to serve as a dynamic field guide for bridging generations, cultivating generosity, and inspiring transformation within the church. Together, we will tackle challenges head-on, celebrate our victories, and possibly ruffle a few feathers because what happens next Sunday could change everything.
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BI-WEEKLY EPISODES: A NEW EPISODE IS RELEASED EVERY OTHER TUESDAY
MOST RECENT EPISODE
The Biblical Model for Effective Church Leadership
Senior pastors are often stretched thin by impossible job descriptions, but what if focusing on just five roles could change everything?
In this episode, we break down the five essential roles every senior pastor should focus on for clarity and effectiveness. Drawing from a biblical model, we discuss why sticking to these core responsibilities can help prevent burnout and lead to healthier, more effective leadership. Whether you're a seasoned pastor or just starting out, understanding these key roles can transform your ministry and bring balance to your life.
In this Episode:
- The five roles that every senior pastor should focus on
- How these roles align with the biblical model of prophet, priest, and king
- Practical tips for communicating and implementing these roles in your church
MORE EPISODES
Church Giving Without Sounding Pushy
Posted 12/24/24
Starting the year by pushing for more tithes might seem like a strong move, but it can actually backfire if it feels too transactional.
In this episode, we explore the pitfalls of leading church conversations with a transactional mindset at the start of the year. Instead of diving straight into financial asks, learn how to set a positive, vision-focused tone that inspires your congregation to give from the heart. We also discuss how to celebrate first-time givers and keep the spirit of generosity alive without feeling like you're constantly asking for money.
In this Episode:
- Why kicking off with a fundraising push might be a mistake
- The importance of vision casting over financial transactions
- Tips to celebrate and encourage first-time givers
Avoid These Common Church Finance Mistakes
Posted 12/10/24
Are outdated budgeting and reporting methods holding your ministry back? Many churches unknowingly follow systems that make financial transparency and strategic planning harder than it has to be.
This week, Jim and Frank uncover practical strategies for smarter financial reporting and budgeting that truly support ministry goals. From effective budgeting approaches to adopting fiscal years that align with ministry cycles, this conversation tackles common pitfalls and offers concrete ways to ensure that your church's finances reflect its mission.
In this episode:
- Why switching to a fiscal year may benefit your church
- Key budgeting practices that maximize accountability
- How to leverage reporting for more effective ministry planning
Guiding the Next Generation of Faith Leaders
Posted 11/26/24
How can seasoned leaders ensure their experiences—the successes and the mistakes—shape the future of the church?
This week, Frank and Jim dive into the importance of passing down hard-earned lessons to younger generations. From insights on personal holiness to fostering a healthy balance between work and family, they share how transparency in leadership can help today’s young leaders sidestep common pitfalls.
In this Episode:
- Why mentorship is crucial for lasting leadership
- Strategies for maintaining integrity and accountability
- Tips for balancing family life with ministry
YOUR HOSTS
FRANK BEALER &
JIM SHEPARD
Frank Bealer
Frank is a distinguished leader and innovator in organizational leadership, church ministry, and family-centered development. As the Co-Founder of Phase Franchise Partners, Frank has demonstrated a profound commitment to creating environments that support family growth and community engagement.
He also serves as an advisor and Chief Strategy Officer at Generis. Frank leverages his diverse background to serve churches and non-profit organizations to help maximize their potential through effective stewardship and generosity strategies.
Frank is a devoted husband and father to six children with many other notable professional endeavors that have informed his extensive leadership. His family is at the heart of everything he does, inspiring his work and his dedication to creating positive change in the lives of others.
Jim Sheppard
Jim Sheppard is CEO & Principal of Generis, a consulting firm passionate about helping churches inspire and cultivate generosity through giving development, coaching, and strategy.
Jim is a student of generosity and is passionate about spreading it throughout the Church. For the last 30+ years, he has devoted his life to coaching pastors especially in navigating the resource limitations that restrict their ministry potential. Jim understands the financial challenges that churches face today; annual giving, debt, capital projects, and planned giving. He is a positive force in bridging these needs with the power of spiritually motivated stewardship. Cumulatively, Jim has partnered with his clients to raise over $2 billion for local church ministry. Jim is a frequent writer and speaker on generosity and ministry funding. He is co-author of Contagious Generosity: Creating A Culture Of Giving In Your Church.
Jim and his wife, Nancy, live in the Atlanta, GA area and they have two married daughters. He is actively involved in his church where he serves as an elder and provides guidance to the Generosity Ministry Team.