Catalyst Services

06/01/2026

Here's an interesting website that will give you pause if you spin the world a few times. This could be a good learning tool with your own children/grandchildren or Sunday school class.

If you were reborn today, where would you land? And how would that change your life?

05/29/2026

Our Great Commission task is not finished until the scope of Jesus’ teachings are being “observed,”—understood and increasingly put into practice by those who come to believe the good news (Mt. 28:19-20). This process requires pastors and teachers qualified to teach and disciple. Yet a very small percentage of church leaders around the globe are adequately trained for this essential task.

Our May/June Postings highlights the story of two Western churches using different means to further the global training of pastors. We then offer five principles to help churches invest well in theological preparation and introduce four organizations providing different pathways for churches to engage.

May 2026 | Volume 21 | Issue 5 Will your church prioritize quality training for Indigenous disciple-makers?

05/20/2026

Did you realize that indigenous writers and publishers are producing Christian books around the world written specifically for the people in their country by people in their country?
Would you like a glimpse into what's "hot" in the Christian book market in Africa...Asia, etc.?
Find out more about Media Associates Int'l that networks and supports these dedicated writers and publishers around the world.

We asked Christian publishers across the world what Christians are buying and reading—and why. From non-fiction books that speak to the head to fiction that speaks to the heart,* our generous community shared the following insights into what is resonating with readers.

05/20/2026

A new study by Lifeway Research reveals that 65% of respondents indicated that they are "hesitant to let non-Christians know that I am a Christian." I am guessing that that is a conservative number.

Where to begin on addressing the fears and assumptions behind this hesitance? I recommend *Living Out Loud* by Kevin King. It addresses what people may be embarrassed to admit and lowers the bar on the fear and inadequacy concerns.

Learn more about the new Living Out Loud book to help you have more spiritual conversations and easily share your faith with this FREE guide.

05/08/2026

Here's something that could be very helpful if you have missionaries in, or contemplating, a cross-cultural marriage. This situation is becoming more common and brings added blessings but also significant additional challenges to missionary life. I have not previewed this material, so if you have used it, please add some feedback in the comments.

A long-time missionary couple, one from Sri Lanka and one a third-culture kid from the UK who grew up in India recently launched a Cross-Cultural marriage course called Two Cultures One Heart, which aims to strengthen marriages and aim for joy.

Building a thriving and joyful marriage for cross-cultural couples

05/04/2026

Hey Catalyst followers...Have you noticed the new look to Postings in our last two issues? We are looking for feedback!

05/01/2026

The Three Waves Movement integrates the efforts of North American and Latino partners under the guidance of indigenous leaders across six South American nations. Their focus is reaching and discipling the 400+ tribal nations of the Amazon and South American lowlands. In this month's Postings, facilitators from each "wave," explain what makes it work despite the challenges.

As missions resources multiply around the globe, complex collaborations like this can maximize what very different partners bring to the task by working together under the direction of local leadership. Here's a model to learn from.

April 2026 | Volume 21 | Issue 4 The Three Waves Movement shows us the future

04/24/2026

India is currently taking a census of its almost 1.5 billion people. However, there are some major risks for Christians if they admit to being Jesus followers. Publicly identifying their faith can lead to persecution for lower-caste Christians and those in religiously hostile states. Will you stop and pray for them right now?

04/22/2026

This is a very eye-opening overview of home assignment from an honest, missionary point of view. If you are a church missions leader, you really need to read this!

by Rachel Hughes Deputation, home assignment, furlough, visiting your passport country—whatever you call it—these trips are fraught with extremes of stress, joy, disappointment, encouragement, and …

04/16/2026

Our book reading group just met today to discuss Marcus Doe's *Catching Ricebirds.* It's a compelling read that challenged us to understand the trauma and deep wounds so many refugees carry from their past as they attempt to assimilate into a new country, culture, and language. We even had the privilege of discussing the implications of his story with Marcus in person.

I highly recommend the book for yourself, your church, or your book group!

Catching Ricebirds: A Story of Letting Vengeance Go