Frequent porn use leads to depression, loneliness among young Americans: Survey
By Ryan Foley, Christian Post
Young Americans who consume pornography frequently experience more loneliness and depression than their peers who do not, a new study has revealed as concerns about the impact of access to sexually explicit material among minors are prompting states to take action.
The Institute for Family Studies, in conjunction with YouGov, surveyed 2,000 adults under the age of 40 about their use of pornography. The results of this research, conducted in May and June, were released on Sept. 12. The Institute for Family Studies identifies its mission as to “strengthen marriage and family life and advance the welfare of children through research and public education.” Overall, 11% of respondents who participated in its survey reported that they watch pornographic, sexually explicit content at least once a day. The demographic subgroup with the highest incidence of porn consumption among young adults is men (16%) followed by “non-heterosexual” respondents (15%), liberals (15%), those between the ages of 18 and 27 (12%), respondents without college degrees (12%), those who make less than $40,000 a year (12%), respondents with a salary between $40,000 and $99,999 (12%), unmarried people (12%) and political moderates (12%). Smaller shares of young adults between the ages of 18 and 19 (11%), those between the ages of 28 and 39 (11%), college students and college graduates (11%), those with incomes of $100,000 or higher (11%) and heterosexuals (10%) reported regular porn use. One out of 10 married respondents said they looked at porn at least once a day. The two groups least likely to consume porn at least once a day are conservatives (8%) and women (7%). The survey also examined the impact of regular porn use on respondents’ mental health. Thirty-two percent of young adults who look at porn at least once a day reported feeling “down and depressed,” while 36% described themselves as “lonely.” By contrast, only 20% of young adults who consume porn at least once or twice a month but no more than once or twice a week told pollsters that they frequently find themselves “down and depressed.” Twenty-six percent of respondents within this age demographic acknowledged that they often feel “lonely.” A third category of respondents, those who either never view pornography or consume it no more than a few times a year, have much better mental health outcomes than their counterparts. Nineteen percent of young adults who rarely or never watch porn have felt “down and depressed,” while 20% have found themselves “lonely” at times. “Considering these finds, addressing the mental health risks associated with frequent pornography use, particularly its link to depression and loneliness, should be a priority for health professionals and American policymakers,” the Institute for Family Studies stated in response to the publication of the research. “Amid America’s ongoing mental health crisis, especially among young adults, it is crucial to understand and mitigate the addictive nature of online pornography.” The Institute for Family Studies warned that “Widespread use of porn has the potential to negatively affect individual well-being as well as societal relationships and overall community health.” The publication of the Institute for Family Studies’ report on porn use among young adults comes as several states have implemented age verification laws in an attempt to prevent minors from accessing sexually explicit content. The National Decency Coalition, which works to “support state efforts to combat the pervasiveness of online pornography through states legislation requiring age-verification to prevent children from gaining access,” lists the states that have enacted such measures as including: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and Virginia. To read the article at its host published site, click here. The Boundless Show with Kris Swiatocho and Lisa Anderson
July 11, 2024Be Yourself on Dates: Episode 858
Guests: 55:12 – Don’t be fake while dating, plus Kris Swiatocho’s testimony as a single adult, and should a guy ask a girl out even after he’s been friendzoned? Featured musical artist: Jeremy Rosado Roundtable: Dating as the Real You It’s great to date someone who’s comfortable in their own skin. So why do so many of us try to impress a date by acting like someone else? Whether we fake interest in their hobbies or we exaggerate (lie) about our accomplishments, we think becoming a version of someone they might like is better than being just plain old us. But no one wants to date a poser, so our panel delves into a spirited discussion on the topic and gives encouragement to be real, whatever the cost. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Lessons From a Lifelong Single (Part 1) Kris Swiatocho had a rough start as a young adult. She admits she wasn’t walking with the Lord, so after a season of partying and poor relationship choices, Kris saw the chance to join a Christian community — and took it. After witnessing what churches do well and not so well in ministering to the unmarried, she started The Singles Network Ministries. Today she speaks to singles around the world about friendship, dating, finding community, and following Jesus — whatever your relationship status. Visit Kris’s Website Inbox: After She’s Friendzoned You A girl at church has already friendzoned him. Should he still try to ask her out, or just let it be? Counselor Patrick Hill weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube Brazilian Singles Ministry
Great opportunity to speak (with a translator, Pastor Fernando De Paula) about singles ministry and needs to leaders from Brazil.
Single Adult Ministry Training Event Success
On May 21st, we hosted an amazing Single Adult Ministry Zoom Training event. We had 25 experts teaching on various topics, from how to start a singles ministry, leadership and teamwork development, single parent and burnout, social events, keeping singles connected, mission trips, and starting a bible study, including Intentional Relationships for Singles. The feedback has been great. So many of those who attended were encouraged and supported. Thanks to our experts, our team, and those who showed up, investing in the ministry God had called them into. It will make an eternal difference.
WGGS: Niteline
So thankful to WGGS who continues to care about single adults. Watch the show!
Bishop Dr. Daniel Vassell, another hero of singles ministry has passed
THE PASSING OF BISHOP DR DANIEL VASSELL
We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of Bishop Daniel Vassell, former International Coordinator of SAM, who passed away recently unexpectedly. Nearly twenty years ago, he pioneered a new era of singles ministry within the Church of God denomination and beyond. Members of the UK SAM team ministered with Bishop Vassell at various engagements including an International Singles Symposium in Cleveland, TN, three Singles Cruises (Florida to Caribbean), two International Leadership Advance conferences in Belgium, a ministry trip to South Africa and most notably, a short UK tour in 2007. He was a faithful soldier of the cross and will be extremely missed. Our thoughts and our prayers are with his wife Jenny and their children at this difficult time. Winner: CSLN Awards: Janet Wolfe Lifetime Achievement and World Ministry of 20 Years
I was so honored to be chosen for the Janet Wolfe Lifetime Achievement award and an aware for being in full-time ministry for 20 years. Thanks to Janet, CSLN and my other honorees for your work in singles ministry. Let's serve another 20 years.
Linda Hardin, A Pioneer and Hero of Singles Ministry, RIP
We have lost a great supporter and love of single adult ministry. This past March, Linda Hardin lost her battle with cancer and went into the arms of Jesus. When I first met Linda 25 plus years ago, she was the National Nazarene Coordinator of Single Adult’s, Women’s, and Young Adult Ministries. She was a pioneer in helping churches start and grow the singles ministry. I remember the day I met her personally. I told her I had a copy of her book and I wanted her to sign it. She looked at me, rolled her eyes, smiled, and in a humble response, really, an autograph, lol? While she had such a quiet and gentle spirit, she was a hero, a star to me. She encouraged me to do the work God had called me to do. To reach singles adults for Christ. To help churches understand who we are. To continue the fight. Thank you, Linda, for being a part of my journey. For the many conversations and support. Thanks for living and finishing well. Read her obit, click here. To order a copy of her book, click here.
A Mother's Relationship: The Light FM interviews Kris Swiatocho
To buy a house or find a spouse, most Americans say young adults have it harder than parents. By Leonardo Blair, Senior Features Reporter, Christian Post
For young adults today, more Americans agree that it’s easier for them than their parents’ generation to stay in touch with friends and family, get into college or find a job. But when it comes to saving for the future, paying for college, buying a house or finding a spouse, most Americans say young adults have it a lot harder. Read Article
Featured in Arise ENEWS this month
Heart for Jesus, Gone too Soon
Today we lost an amazing young woman of the Lord, Michaela Vitkova to cancer. Many years ago, Michaela was searching for help in starting a singles ministry in Prague. She found The Singles Network Ministries website and the work I was doing in Europe. She contacted us for help. We became instant friends. I had the honor of training her to start and grow singles ministry in Prague. She would invite me to come and speak following years. Michaela, like most young singles also desired to be married. Three years ago God brought her George. Today he shared with me that he was with her as she exhaled her last breath on earth, only to inhale her next one in heaven. She was a warrior for Christ. Please join me in prayer for her family and friends and the next steps of the ministry she left behind.
TBN: WGGS: Intentional Relationships
WGGS TV, Ms. Annie Broughton interview, Click here to watch, Wed, Dec 8th, 2021
CSLN, UK
Congratulations to our nominee Kris Swiatocho. We look forward to honoring Kris at the CSLN Awards in November. Christian Singles' Leaders Network Relaunch!
For more information, click here. WGGS/TBN: Pastor Benny Interview, Greenville, SCTwo Heroes of Singles Ministry: We will Miss Them! Pastor Max Holt
Pastor Max Holt was a great friend, supporter, and encourager to single adults. He pastored singles at HBC in Clarksville, TN, for many years as well as served as a singles ministry trainer with Lifeway for the state of TN. The first time I met Max was at the Labor Day Singles Retreat, where he gave me a business card that said “S.P.L.A.S.H”..an acronym for his singles ministry. At first, I was like, how can this man, who has been married his whole life, understand singleness. Well, Max agreed with me. He had been married his whole life; however, God has given him the heart to listen, understand, and offer compassion to singles of all ages and backgrounds. He would become a great friend and mentor. I will forever be changed by all I learned from Max and thankful he cared.
Partial Obit: Maxie Gene Holt, age 75, of Mt. Juliet, TN, and formerly of Clarksville, TN, died April 27, 2021. Mr. Holt was a member and Sunday School teacher at First Baptist Church of Mt. Juliet. His Sunday School Class was broadcasted internationally online weekly. He retired, after 22 years, at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel from the U.S. Army. After his military career, Mr. Holt was a minister and preacher of the gospel of Jesus Christ in Texas and at Robertson Avenue Baptist Church in Copperas Cove Texas and at Hilldale Baptist Church in Clarksville, TN. Mr. Holt founded Max Holt Media Publishing in May of 2015 to publish his family's books and to provide Christian Single resources for singles and churches. He loved to travel and had visited over 40 countries and 28 states. Mr. Holt was a Silver Medalist in Ping Pong in the Senior Olympics. He was an accomplished musician and enjoyed playing the guitar, banjo, mandolin and fiddle.  Pastor Bill McCarron
Bill was another great friend and huge supporter of the singles ministry. A single adult himself, he understood the many struggles singles could have. But he also knew the victories. I met Bill through hearing him teach at a singles retreat in NC. His heart and love for others were radiant. He would attend the Labor Day Retreat I lead as well as become a supporter of Kris Swiatocho Ministries. In my last text from him, just two days before he passed, he told me how much he appreciated all I was doing for singles and to keep going. He believed in me! Thank you, Bill, for loving me and for loving others. Thank you also for your dear fiance and friend, Pat Rostron.
Partial Obit: Bill passed away unexpectedly in his home on April 22, 2021. He was 67 years old. He was born in Portsmouth, VA to the late John J. McCarron and Alice E. Travers nee’ Marcum. He was an associate pastor at Courtland Baptist Church.He had recently become engaged to his fiancée, Pat Rostron of Raleigh, NC. Bill loved to laugh and tell stories, many of which may have been slightly embellished, but fun none-the-less. He often began laughing so hard at his own stories, that those around him would be laughing at his laughing. He loved the Lord and loved to share the Lord with others. He loved to travel, spend time with friends, enjoyed sports, watching movies, and reading. He also loved going to Busch Gardens as frequently as he could, especially during Christmas season for Christmastown. Bill enjoyed many hats throughout life: a softball commissioner for the church league in which he was inducted into the Softball Hall of Fame, a coach and player for the Virginia Beach First Church of the Nazarene softball team which won 5 National Championships, a welder, a teacher, a business manager, and numerous other areas. His laughter would carry and make everyone else laugh around him. He will be greatly missed. https://www.facebook.com/pat.rostron.3/posts/10226344451944144 $1030 Raised to Send Books to Uganda
Thank you for supporting ministry to single adults in Uganda by donating over $1000 towards the coast to ship 100 of our studies to Pastor Obong in Lira, Uganda. Pastor Thomas is a representative of Church Initiative, the developer of Divorce Care, Griefshare, and Single and Parenting here in the US.
Your generosity will help reach many for Christ not only in Lira but all over Uganda as they start study groups. If you would like to still donate towards this amazing cause, click here: https://www.thesinglesnetwork.org/uganda-singles-ministry.html New Book/Study: Intentional Relationship for Singles, 12-Week Bible Study
Year-End Review: What Has God Done in 2020 by Kris Swiatocho
I am sure like most of you, you would rather forget 2020. In fact, you aren’t sure 2021 is going to be much better. I have decided the best way to see the value of 2020 is to view it through God’s eyes. What has God done for me personally and through the ministry despite? Read More
Christian Single Leaders Network, UK saying goodbye to founder Janet Wolfe
Today was bittersweet as many people impacted by Janet's heart for single adult ministry has come to an end...well her leadership of the ministry. Leader after leader shared their connection to Janet and how she help them in various ways---including Kris Swiatocho, The Singles Network Ministry. Janet was our first contact 8 plus years ago. She contacted Kris Swiatocho in hopes of gaining some resources to lead ministry, network and build a friendship. She would ask Kris if she would ever come to the UK to speak and train. Kris accept this request and the rest is history. From speaking all over the UK and Europe, to developing leaders, the ministry all started with that first contact with Janet and her vision of what God could do in the UK. Thanks Janet for loving singles and for reaching out to The Singles Network ministries.
We Made the Press: Baptist Press
Interview Little Rock ChurchSupporting Single Parents
Incredible time at First Baptist Church in Houston, TX. A church that not only employs Holly Crain as it's single parent director, but offers numerous resources to help single parents including single fathers.
Another Successful Tour in the UK/Europe, 2019
To read more about this tour, see photo's, click here.
AMFM-XYZ Buys Radio
Destiny Rescue Update: Our 2018 Labor Day Singles Retreat Charity
Thank you to all the amazing supporters of Destiny Rescue! Because of you, Destiny Rescue rescued 1,074 victims, mostly children, in 2018! These precious lives who are made in the image of God are now free - free to experience the incredible love of God. Brothels have been shut down, traffickers arrested and children are now receiving hope again…this is possible because of your generosity. THANK YOU!
In addition, we’ve seen more kids and families than ever experience restoration and healing through our aftercare and referral programs. And with the ability to provide better options, we are equipping and empowering more children and their families than never before. And lastly, I have an update on a girl that we rescued. I shared her story with everyone at the Labor Day Singles Retreat this past summer. Botum, who we rescued, went through our restoration program and then eventually went through our vocational training program to learn how to sew. Her mother was given a microloan to purchase a food cart and started making almost 6 times what she used to make! Now here is the exciting update. Botum has recently become the Children’s Director at her church. God is so good. You are helping make dreams like this beautiful young woman come true for children all over the world. Eternity looks different because of you and is making a generational impact. THANK YOU! For more information on Destiny Rescue, click here! Kris Swiatocho: Single Mom University Instructor
State of Singleness/Church
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A Great Loss: Randy Shepherd
We have some bittersweet news to tell you. Our great friend, and fellow teacher of God's word, Randy Shepherd of Crossfire Ministries has passed away. Randy recently had 2 valves replaced on his heart and was not able to fully recover. Randy, by far was the strongest evangelist that I have ever known. We served together for 8 years on the Klove cruises--ministering to people on and off the ship and we witnessed together in downtown Asheville, NC. Randy was intense in his passion for Jesus and never let any conversation deter him to see them accept Christ. He was a model to us all. We have had the honor of having both Randy and Jamie Johnson several times our our Labor Day retreat--not only sharing God's word in creative ways but inspiring others to do the same. I am so thankful to have called him my friend and my brother. I know he is healed in heaven but there is much sadness by his friends and family on earth. If Randy could speak to me now, he would say--no tears sister Kris--just keep telling people about Jesus--don't stop, don't stop..the work isn't done.
Please be in prayer for Jamie Johnson,--ministry partner, Tal Groce (another best friend of Randy's) his mom Betty, sister Toni, other family, friends, supporters and the millions of people they have impacted over the last 30 plus years...that the work will continue for Crossfire and the seeds will multiply until it's our time as well. Thank you! Read more Click here to read is obit and consider making a donation to Crossfire ministries. What A Cruise by Kris SwiatochoThis past December, I was honored to speak on All Christian Cruises Christmas Singles Cruise. We departed from Port Canaveral upon the Royal Caribbean, Mariner of The Seas, headed to the Dominican Republic and the private island of Coco Cay.
We had around 70 singles join us from all over the US and one from Canada. Everyone was pretty excited to be going to the Caribbean, celebrating Christmas early, and making new friends. And while we did all do those things, something much bigger happened that would change our lives. Because anyone can go on a cruise, with or without a group, I wanted to make sure this cruise would be something different. I have personally spoken on 12 other cruises, each with its unique leadership, speakers, worship, attendees, staff, kind of ship, and destination. So, how would things be different and memorable for this cruise? Sure, I had planned a fun Christmas party, many icebreakers and games for folks to get to know each other, and our meals together, but I knew God had brought us all together for something bigger. In the past, I encouraged folks to share their faith with their steward, staff, other cruisers, etc. I had even suggested bringing a Bible to give out, praying for God to open doors to share our faith. On some of the cruises, we were able to do a mission project, including giving out tracks in other countries. But how could we go the next step with this cruise? How could we measure to see if our efforts were returning anything? Well, by being more intentional, with more prayer, setting goals, and then allowing folks to share daily what God had done.
Engage Online Retreat was Amazing
We had folks from several states. We had great fellowship, teaching, worship, breakout discussions, and prayer. Plus, fun icebreakers, games, and a movie on Saturday night. Thanks to Spoony Witherspoon and Kelly Comfort with Connecting in Christ for their direction and leadership. If you want to know more about this ministry and its weekly online events, go to Connected in Christ Singles: https://sites.google.com/view/connectedinchrist/home
Also, thank Spoony, Terri, and Becky for teaching the breakouts on Saturday. WGGS: Niteline with Pastor Freddy Johnson and Kris SwiatochoDivorce Care News
New! Session-by-Session Video Access Your group members still have access to all 13 video sessions—with one big change.
If your DivorceCare participants registered for your group at divorcecare.org, they’re able to watch the session videos online on their computers or mobile devices. But in response to feedback from our leaders we’re staggering the release of the videos over the course of the 13-week group cycle. What’s new? After the end of your first session, we’ll unlock the next session video in your group members’ Watch Online area. We’ll do the same following subsequent sessions in your cycle. This way, participants won’t receive all 13 videos when your group begins. Instead, one new video will be added to the Watch Online area, each week. This benefits your group by providing:
Groups will have access to the first video two weeks before your group begins and all video access for one week after your group finishes. Learn more about how your group members can watch online videos. Samaritan Purse Trip
Wow, what an incredible mission trip to Florida to help those affected by Hurricane Ian. We got to help at several homes and minister to 3 families, including two single ladies. One of our homeowners accepted the Lord. One big thing I noticed was that most of those serving were single. As a single adult, what an excellent opportunity to be used by God to help others. I know Samaritan's Purse is still needing help. Click here to join them in Florida. To see some pictures, read daily postings, and watch videos of our experience, click here.
Just Call Me Sarah Talk ShowMinistry of the Month: The Light FM
Look at this...The Singles Network Ministries was chosen as the ministry highlight for March for The Light FM. What a wonderful opportunity. Please show your support by letting The Light FM know how much it means to have a singles ministry resource highlighted on their station.
https://thelightfm.org/ministry-spotlight/ Labor Day Singles Retreat, 2022Focus on the Families: The Boundless Show with Lisa Anderson
The Light FM: Great Radio Interview
Kris shares on "Community Spotlight" about being intentional in our relationships. The Light can be heard on the radio at the following and live online at www.thelightfm.org
106.9 – Asheville, Shelby, Charlotte, Boone; 106.7 Knoxville 94.9 – Winston Salem; 88.9 – Clemson; 101.5 – Rock Hill WGGS and Singles Ministry
Great interview and time with Channel 16; WGGS in Greenville, SC. for the TV Show: Niteline; Pastor Benny Littlejohn interviewed Pastor Freddy and Kris Swiatocho.
Premier Radio, UK
Another amazing interview with the UK's largest Christian Radio Station, Premier. Host: Wonderful Maria Rodrigues and also pictured, Single Parent Missions Director, Dawn Vanderwerf. We had an amazing time. Thanks Premier!
106 FM, The Light SpotlightLabor Day 2019 PromoWhat Singles Need From Church (Interview with Kris Swiatocho) by Jay Mayo of Right to Real Love Christian Radio
• Part 1: http://righttoreallove.com/what-singles-need-from-church-part1/
• Part 2: http://righttoreallove.com/what-singles-need-from-church-part2/ • Part 3: http://righttoreallove.com/what-singles-need-from-church-part3/ • Part 4: http://righttoreallove.com/what-singles-need-from-church-part4/ Jesus, Single Like Me/UK Radio Interview
The Overlooked Gift of the Spirit by Kris Swiatocho (published by Charisma Mag)
The Singles Network is expanding:
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When I Became a Man featuring recommendation by TSN Ministries
When I Became A Man, the men’s Bible study guide, written by James Daughtry and published by Abidan, is featured as the book of the month on The Singles Network Ministries. The director, Kris Swiatocho, and the staff consider When I Became A Man to be a "great resource" for men’s ministry.
Kindle additional now available LOL: Living Out Love Labor Day Weekend Retreat Amazing Success
Beside the amazing connections, new friendships, way fun excursions to various locations off and on campus, laughs from Bean and Bailey comedy team, worship with NorthPoint Church and Pastor Jay George plus my teaching with Pastor Freddy Johnson, we actually witness miracles of healings, restorations and new directions. There are actually more than I can list. The Holy Spirit was everywhere. Our prayer team spent hours praying over every chair, door knob and space we occupied. By Sunday afternoon, our prayer rooms were filled with folks hungry for God's voice, his direction, his healing. Thanks to sooo many people who not only helped lead, teach and plan but also served in various areas from registration such as Missy Honeycutt to greeters to table leaders to prayer warriors, vendors and communion leaders. Please see our web page for next years information at www.labordaysingles.org. Also, see our facebook page here for up to date information including testimonials that folks have shared and pictures. "One person shared with me...God has told me to burn for him...it starts with His flame in me..."
Navigate, 2014 Leaders Retreat a Success!
We have over 40 leaders from several states attend this years Navigate Pastors/Leaders retreat in Black Mountain, NC. What an honor to hear their stories, share their struggles and success in leading singles adults. We laughed, we cried, we hugged, we encouraged. One of the pastors shared that they needed this retreat so much. Where else can you get the support, ideas, and solutions to singles ministry. We want to thank Jill Monaco from Single Matters Magazine and Dennis Franck, National Director of the Assemblies of God plus Pastor Freddy Johson, Northpoint Church, Columbia, SC and Pastor Jay George, North Monroe Baptst, Monroe, LA and Sher Isaacs, Singles Director, Vineyard Church, Columbus, OH for their help, support, teaching. Join us next year. www.NavigateRetreat.com
Lifeway: HomeLife Published
No Regular Joe by Kris Swiatocho
Recently Lifeway contacted me to republish an article for their June Issue of HomeLife magazine, honoring "Fathers of all kinds." I had written about my step-dad who loved me and treated me like his own child…just like Joseph treated Jesus. What was bitter sweet about the article is that I wrote it when my dad was still alive. What a treasure to read it again, thanking God for such a wonderful earthy father as well as my Spiritual one. Click here to read complete article. Zaccheus Men's Home Named After Title Character from article written by Kris Swiatocho
Transtional housing for men coming out of faith based in prison programs. For more info, see their newsletter or click here.
Español anyone?
The Singles Network Ministries has a huge international audience. Regularly we hear from people all over the world. One area in particular are those who speak Spanish.
I am so proud to announce that some of the resources on this website will now be in Spanish courtesy of a wonderful woman named Sol Tesconi. We are also working with developing Portuguese and Russian materials. See our tool section for some articles in spanish as well as articles by Kris Swiatocho. UK Radio and TV SpecialsOn a recent trip to the UK, Kris Swiatocho was interviewed by United Christian Broadcasters for a 3-part radio series in December. Also, TV Network Revelation also did an interview. Upcoming links to actual programs available soon.
Abidan Books Featured TSN
Lifeway's Annual Singles Retreat has transferred leadership to The Singles Network Ministries
I am in awe at the honor of taking over this most amazing retreat that I myself attended many time through the years, served on the leadership team, as well as taught. Lifeway has done a wonderful job all these years reaching singles. Singles look forward to the retreat each year to make new friends, network their ministries, hear from God and simply have fun and rest. I am so thankful to be able to take it over. We will be scaling things back a bit to take us to what we think the retreat is really about..connecting to God and each other.
Kris Swiatocho, Joining Speakers Bureau of The Life of a Single Mom Ministries
Kris Swiatocho, new featured writer for Journey Christian News.
The links below are either interviews or articles using quotes from Kris or her articles re-edited/published by other online magazines.Radio Interview by Former Singles Pastor Greg Horn, Lexington, KY
I Kissed Kissing Goodbye [And Present Thoughts on the Matter] by Cultural War Reporters Sprinkle of Jesus by Dana Chanel How to Organize a Christian Singles Ministry by Lillian Downey, Demand Media Understanding Our Times: Singles Network Ministries and Kris Swiatocho by Kevin Thompson Single and Surviving (pdf) by Danielle Caspar, Cary Magazine Welcome to Smallville: Making the Most of Life in Churches and Towns Where Singles Are Scarce (pdf) by Alison Hayhoe, Christian Single Magazine TheSinglesNetwork.org Ministries: Joining Forces to Minister to Single Adults (pdf) by Michelle Medlock Adams, Christian Single Magazine Singles Standing Out Rather than Being Stood Up by Cheryl Scanlan, The Raleigh World |
New Ministry, The Singles Advantage
Regina Morales of The Singles Advantage shares how her ministry is reaching singles for Christ. In the introduction, she quotes Kris Swiatocho, The Singles Network Ministries.
Jesus, Single Like Me in the UK
Mutley Baptist Church in Plymouth, UK started Jesus, Single Like Me Bible study by Kris Swiatocho.
Singles in the Church by Holly Meade
Are they an invisible population?
When the U.S. government began tracking data in 1976, over 37 percent of the population age 16 and older was unmarried. As of 2014, more than 50 percent of Americans are single adults. In fact, there are 27 states where singles comprise more than half the population, according to data assembled by CityLab and the Martin Prosperity Institute. Unmarried adults range from 18 to 56 years and older and include never married, divorced, widowed and single parents. Yet with this vast population, how effectively is the church ministering to them? Not so well, according to some. Kris Swiatocho, director of The Singles Network Ministries, says, “For most churches single adults are invisible. Mainly because most pastors, secretaries, deacons/elders are married with children. When they are in the pulpit they typically preach and identify with those that are like themselves.” Swiatocho believes there are multiple factors leading to this state of invisibility, including competition from other ministries, a lack of funds, “high turnover” for members and a lack of demand from many congregations. “We need more pastors trained to minister to single adults; but, we need more churches who want single adult pastors that will create the jobs for them when they do graduate,” he said. Nathan Keeler, pastor of a young adult congregation at McLean Bible Church in Virginia, agrees. “We do not have enough pastors and staff that are engaging the culture, giving opportunities for young adults and singles to have a voice and responsibility within the church and putting resources toward this effort,” he says. Rev. Craig A. Young serves as director of the singles ministry at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas. “I think singles ministry is one of the auxiliary needs in the church that is often overshadowed by other needs,” he says. “Whereas the ministry and support to singles is a recognized need, there are many other needs in the church as well with a limited amount of resources. Therefore, it is difficult for many churches to have a well-supported ministry to singles.” “One of the challenges of having a singles ministry is you have four leaking tires,” says Tim Grosshans, pastor of First Baptist Church in Winter Garden, Florida. Grosshans was the singles pastor at First Baptist Church in Orlando for five years. “You’re always losing people. They constantly marry each other.” While singles ministry may be lacking in some churches, it is crucial to examine the purpose of a singles ministry as well as the motives of individual unmarried adults. Approximately 45 percent of the adult congregation at Saddleback Church in California are unmarried. Jeremy Hsieh assists the pastor of Saddleback’s singles ministry. “Some people are professional singles. They go from event to event but never contribute or invest,” he says. For example, Saddleback hosts quarterly six-week gatherings which invite singles to participate in Bible study as well as community events like movies, golf and games. Hsieh says that typically a group of 40 to 50 people attend the first gathering with about 15 percent tapering off each week. The last gathering usually includes about 20 people. Saddleback integrates singles with married couples so they can witness healthy relationships and feel like an important part of the church community. Hsieh states segregating the unmarried also feeds the perspective they are there to just receive versus serving. “I’m a 30-something single adult and I don’t think it is the church’s job is [sic] to contribute events. I think it’s to help me with my relationship with God,” says Hsieh. “Some see it so they would not be single anymore [sic]. Our purpose is to get them in a healthy community. The greatest need is to become a healthy Christian.” Pastor Grosshans says singles are invisible by their own choice because they can proactively devote more time to serving the Lord and others. Jesus said that not everyone can receive or accept serving God as a purpose for staying single. Remember to pray that churches across this nation provide the unmarried with opportunities to grow closer to God and to serve Him. Pray also that singles continually pursue God first with all their heart, soul and mind. “We are alive for two reasons: to love God and to share His love with others. If you want to find someone focused on the Lord, just keep pursuing Jesus! The moment you take your eyes off Him, it becomes idol worship,” says Grosshans. Holly Meade is a communications specialist, writer, speaker and teacher with a master’s degree in mass communication. She has extensive experience in creating and producing content for radio, television and the Internet. Faith in Focus
Kris Swiatocho, Speaker/Entertainer for Klove Cruise, Jan 13-17th, 2015
Tarheel Traveler/Story: A Single Christian Women Story, Today/Then
I traveled to Yanceyville, NC to film a story for the Tar Heel Traveler, a wonderful TV show featuring stories about NC, its people, its food, its stories and its culture.
THE STORY. When I was a child I was given some old postcards written to a women (1907-1921) named Fannie Sue Wilson. At the time, like a lot of kids, I collected postcards. Many years had passed and I came across the cards, about 50 in total. I thought, what am I going to do with these cards. Hmmm, I know, I'm going to find the owner, well at least the family. Through various searches online and a few steps, I found a family member, a cousin named David Wilson. The journey would begin. Who was this woman? What was she like? Did we have something in common? I found out that Fannie Sue lived and worked as a school teacher in various towns in NC her whole life (b1891, d1983). She stayed single her entire life. She loved to teach kids. She was independent, had a great sense of humor and simply loved life. She also loved God, making sure that she was apart of the local congregations in each town. I found out that she was a lot like me, single, Christian and loved to teach. To see the show online, click here. |
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