Learn more about the vital mark of Caring Relationships through this introductory video.

How vital is your congregation when it comes to Caring Relationships? Take our quiz and find out!

Please note that this quiz only reflects the individual quiz taker's perceptions. To dive deeper encourage your session, deacons, or other small group to take it; then share your answers  and talk together.  If you want a fuller, richer dive into your congregation's vitality makeup related to all 7 marks consider the US Congregational Vitality Survey.

Caring Relationships Interviews

100 and Vital, an interview with Lance Loveall, pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Kenosha.  Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the congregation, we discuss the ebbs and flows of vitality, coming back from the pandemic, cultivating Christian welcome, and what it means to celebrate where we are now.


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Being New, an interview with Jackie Rodriguez, resident with Carroll University chaplains office and West Granville. Jackie shares how she has sought to build connection in her new communities, what others have done to make her feel welcome, and tips for providing a welcoming atmosphere to youth and young adults.

Genuine Community Connections, an interview with Cathy Manthei, commissioned pastor of Apostle PC(USA) in West Allis. Cathy shares how she has developed relationships with people across her community including: the mayo and other chief officials as well as members of the homeless community and more. She also reflects on how this relational ministry has impacted the members of Apostle.

Building Connection through Deeper Conversations, an interview with Rob Ater, Associate Pastor at Immanuel PC(USA) in Milwaukee. Rob reflects on his ministry and the tools he's learned from Common Ground Wisconsin for having conversations that get beyond the common chit-chat and into learning what really matters to people.



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Grace Lived Out, a conversation with Wayne and Linda Vaughn.  The Vaughns are elders at Faith Springs PCUSA in Pewaukee.  Each brings a different approach to caring relationships, using their gifts and interests to develop deeper relationships within their congregation and with visitors.


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What’s it take to stay married for 70 years?
Humor, forgiveness, understanding and love are just a few of the elements that have helped Rev. Dr. James Reese and his wife, Neola, live side- by-side for seven decades.
With thanks to Presbyterian Foundation for sharing their story!

Articles and Studies

How Caring Is Your Congregation? A biblical exploration by Chip Hardwick, this article includes reflection questions great for more intentional discernment and growth in Caring Relationships.

Leadership Formation Webinar: Care Ministry: This article includes a 90 min webinar for deacons and elders by ​Ruling Elder Martha Miller and the Revs. Rachel and Matt Rhodes. "Presbyterians are 'a people built for connection,' caring includes welcoming church visitors and reaching out to individuals from different generations in ways that work for them, including personal invitations to meet, as well as care visits with the grieving and elderly that help to lessen a person’s isolation".

A Seat at the Table. How one congregation's conversation around what tables to buy led to a deeper reflection about how they engage with and welcome one another in meaningful ways. Includes questions for reflection.

Leaders Taste. A fresh look at the blessed potluck and what makes the meal and time together sacred. Includes questions for reflection.

Leaders Lean In. How conflict can offer positive opportunities for growth and understanding if we lean in rather than avoid. Includes questions for reflection.

Hospitable Faith.  A biblical reflection on Jesus' encounter with Zacchaeus and what it teaches us about hospitality. Includes reflection questions.

Ted Talk: How our friendship survives our opposing politics.

The 2016 election (and division since) has tested many a friendship and family relationship. Hear how these two friends with opposing political views have maintained and deepened their friendship (and not by avoiding the topic!).