Religious ministry and clergy Books

Book SynopsisThe 100 illustrations in this book are some of the hottest ever used -- short stories, parables, humorous anecdotes--all of them guaranteed to deliver the truth of God’s Word in a way that young people can understand and remember.Table of ContentsCONTENTS CONTRIBUTORS INTRODUCTION HOW TO CHOOSE AND USE ILLUSTRATIONS HOT ILLUSTRATIONS Alexander the Great An Answer to Prayer Awesome Obedience The Battleship and the Lighthouse The Bear in the Cave Beauty and the Beast The Bee Sting Beware of Curare Big Adventures The Big Rock The Blind Date The Blind Men and the Elephant The Blood of an Overcomer The Boat in the Window Bonny’s Bunny Born to Fly The Bottle Bought to Be Freed The Boy and the Circus Brandon’s Mess Caught in a Blizzard The Chicken and the Pig Choosing Mary The Circus Clown The Cliff The Coffin Coming Home Computer Grace The Cookie Snatcher Deadly Marbles The Diamond Merchant The Emperor Moth Eskimo Wolf Hunters Excuses, Excuses Face the Music Finish the Race The Flying V The Flying Wallendas Footprints in the Sand France, 1943 Getting the Word Out The Glove The Greatest Hitter in the World The Greyhound Races The Grocery Store Clerk Hannibal’s Fire The Hermit’s Gift The Hopeless Baseball Game How to Catch a Monkey The Insurance Claim Jesus and the Football Team The Jewelry Store Caper The Jigsaw Puzzle The Job Applicant The Kebbitch Itch The Kiss “Lambing” in New Zealand Laying Bricks or Building Cathedrals The Lifeboat The Lifesaving Station The Little Girl and the Piano The Long Jump Lost Dog---$50 Reward Love, Julie The Mirror A Night in the Haunted House Not Much of a Man The Oil Refinery Out at Home Plate The Painting of the Last Supper Pepe Rodriguez The Prince of Grenada The Queen of England Real Friends The Reverse Thread Right Decisions Rudolph and Olive The Secret Sharpen Your Ax The Smartest Teenager in the World The Society Woman Sparky, the Loser The Suicide Attempt Teddy and Miss Thompson Telemachus Goes to Rome Thermometers and Thermostats Thomas Edison, the Failure The Three Spinners The Tightrope and the Wheelbarrow Too Many Engineers The Tractor Pull The Turtle Picnic Uncompromising Determination The W.C. We’ll Get Back to You What Life? When Do I Die? The Window Wrong Way Riegel You, Too, Can Be Beautiful We want your Hot Illustration! Index to Topics

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Book SynopsisQuestion: What is the God-given purpose of the local church? Answer: Relational discipleship. DiscipleShift walks you through five key shifts that churches must make to refocus on the fundamental biblical mission of discipleship. These intentional changes will attract the world and empower your church members to be salt and light in their communities.Over the last thirty years, many influential church leaders and church planters in America have adopted various models for reaching unchurched people. While many of these approaches have merit, something is still missing, something even more fundamental to the mission of the church: discipleship.Making disciples—helping people to trust and follow Jesus—is the church''s God-given mandate. Devoted disciples attract people outside the church because of the change others see in their Christ-like lives. And discipleship empowers Christians to

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Book SynopsisAs communicators in a culture saturated with storylines, we have the profound opportunity to invite our students into the masterful Story of God. There are a variety of ways to invite our students into this Story, but this book discusses and explores how to teach through one of Jesus'' most powerful modes of communication--fictional storytelling. Rabbinical storytelling (otherwise known as Jewish Agada) embraces the narrative of Scripture and invites its listeners into understanding and participation. Our Rabbi, Jesus, employed this mode of communication through his parables. Approaching the topic as a theologian, philosopher and artist, Jon invites and teaches how to create modern-day parables that illuminate the message of Jesus. These stories do not simply illustrate the message; they are, in fact, the message. Whether hoping to articulate deep theological concepts or relevant topics, teaching through the art of fictional storytelling has the potential to engage and invite our st

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Book SynopsisMany ministry leaders serving in churches find themselves overwhelmed, disillusioned, and depressed by the enormous and challenging task of leading and serving others. When leaders aren’t healthy, the result is often an unhealthy church. Leaders need someone to shepherd their soul so that they can then lead others to the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ. Every church leader—from fulltime ministers to volunteer leaders—needs a Gospel Coach who will come alongside them with words drawn from Scripture and godly wisdom, grounded in the gracious saving work of Jesus Christ, and presented in the context of a trusting relationship. Gospel coaching is an intentional relationship of skillful caring for others based on four ancient shepherding principles: 1) Know the sheep 2) Feed the sheep 3) Lead the sheep 4) Protect the sheep Gospel coaches inquire about the personal, spiritual, and missional aspects of a leader’s life in a loving yet focused manner, probing the heart f

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Book SynopsisThis book connects biblical doctrine with practical living. The reader gains an insight into the rich theological framework that supports and directs a biblical approach to counseling.

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Book SynopsisThis companion volume to Competent to Counsel and The Christian Counselor’s Manual is designed to help you assimilate and apply the principles of nouthetic counseling. It is an excellent tool for any Christian counselor who wants to develop a scriptural approach to counseling. Based on actual counseling experiences, the cases are typical of the various problems encountered in ordinary church and pastoral counseling. This workbook provides * practice in learning how to identify problems according to biblical norms * practice in laying out biblical plans of action * familiarity with a variety of problems This is not merely a book for the classroom. It is a tool for all sorts of training and personal development programs. By working through the many cases provided, you will be better able to identify and respond to the issues that typically confront Christian counselors.

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Book SynopsisYouth Ministry Management Tools 2.0 by Mike Work and Ginny Olson is an up-to-date revision of a popular, best-selling resource manual that helps youth workers with the administrative side of leading a youth ministry.Table of ContentsOUTLINE FOR YMMT V2 Chapter 1 - Introduction to Management of Youth Ministry A. Why management is sometimes difficult for YM people B. Theological underpinnings of youth ministry management C. If you're new to youth ministry: the first steps you need to take. SECTION I - STRATEGIC FOUNDATIONS OF YOUTH MINISTRY CHAPTER 2 - STARTING POINT OF YM MANAGEMENT A. Philosophy of youth ministry B. Philosophy of Leadership C. Vision and Mission CHAPTER 3 - STRATEGIC PLANNING Developing a strategic plan for your youth ministry A. Demographics of your community B. Demographics of your church C. What's a SWOT analysis and how can it help you? D. Values, Beliefs, Assumptions, and Guiding Principles E. Goals: SMART F. Evaluating a youth ministry CHAPTER 4 - PLANNING A. Short-term planning B. Long-term planning SECTION II - ORGANIZATION AND YOUTH MINISTRY CHAPTER 5 - EVENTS A. Types of events B. Creating C. Guidelines D. Risk management E. Contracts, forms, budgets F. Marketing CHAPTER 6 - COMMUNICATIONS A. Target your communication B. Tools for communication: websites, texting, emails, etc C. Designing and prioritizing marketing CHAPTER 7 - FINANCES A. Budget basics B. Financial policies C. Developing a year-long budget D. Fund-raising CHAPTER 8 - GENERAL OFFICE PROCEDURES A. Office set up B. Office protocol C. Filing systems CHAPTER 9 - RISK MANAGEMENT A. Foundation of risk management B. Safety policies C. Necessary forms: Registration, permission, medical release D. Background checks E. Insurance coverage CHAPTER 10 - WORKING WITH BOARDS and COMMITTEES A. Type of Boards: advisory, governing, policy making, B. Board responsibilities C. Selection of board and committee members D. Governing policies E. Running meetings CHAPTER 11 - WRITING ON THE JOB A. Writing reports for annual meetings, governing boards, etc. B. Correspondence: How to write your resignation, a thank you, an invitation C. How to put together a proposal D. Writing reference letters E. Intellectual property SECTION 3: PEOPLE AND YOUTH MINISTRY CHAPTER 12 - TEAM: RECRUITING, SCREENING, AND DEVELOPING A. Philosophy of team B. Job descriptions and expectations C. Recruiting volunteers D. Screening E. Orientation and evaluation strategy for new volunteers F. Developing the team CHAPTER 13- STUDENT LEADERS A. Philosophy B. How to develop a team C. Roles and expectations D. Teachable moments in developing leaders CHAPTER 14 - INTERNS A. Getting your church on board B. Preparing for interns C. Recruiting and screening D. Internship development plan E. Evaluation SECTION 4: YOU AND YOUTH MINISTRY Chapter 15 - Employed as a Youth Minister A. Resumes, cv's, and LinkedIn - making yourself known B. Job descriptions C. Researching a position D. Interviewing E. Salary F. Job reviews G. Negotiating: a raise, vacation, schooling, etc. H. Professional boundaries I. Leaving: when it's your choice and when it's not. Chapter 16 - Managing Your Life in Ministry A. Time Management B. Setting priorities C. Planning for your future

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Book SynopsisTaking a stand over the gender-issue divide Author and New Testament scholar Michael Bird was formerly in favor of distinct gender roles in ministry, a viewpoint commonly called complementarianism. But inconsistencies in practice and careful biblical study convinced him to rethink his position.Originally published as a short ebook, Bourgeois Babes, Bossy Wives, and Bobby Haircuts offers an engaging, incisive perspective on biblical gender equality and the egalitarian viewa preference for allowing women to hold teaching and leadership positions in ministry.While Bird is now egalitarian, he nevertheless strikes a respectful tone toward those in his previous camp, seeking to craft a perspective that both values women and upholds biblical differences between the sexes. Humorous and hard-hitting, Bird will challenge readers on both sides of the gender-issue divide.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Fretting over Phoebe 2. Who is Who in the Zoo? 3. Women in Pauline Churches Conclusion Epilogue: Who the Heck Was Ilse Fredrichsdorff?

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Book SynopsisIs it time for your church to go multisite? How do you know if it''s the right solution for your congregation?MultiChurch brings clarity to the multisite movement and assembles the lessons it has learned over the past 15 years. Combining insights from multisite church pastor Brad House and Christian theology professor Gregg Allison, this book will help anyone interested in multiplying gospel-centered churches to effectively evaluate and develop the best multisite model for their own church context.In MultiChurch, you will: Explore the opportunities presented by the various forms of multi-site church. Identify areas of concern while addressing criticisms against multisite models. Understand how multisite is not only a biblically sound ecclesiological model, but also a model that provides a compelling solution to contemporary reductionism in the church.  This theologiTrade ReviewDr. Gregg Allison and Brad House have both helped shape my approach to ministry in unique ways. As the supervisor for my doctoral degree, Gregg pressed my theology of the church into consistent practice, and Brad taught me how to lead smaller communities in the context of a large, rapidly growing church. In MultiChurch, you will see the authors' respective complementary perspectives, as well as their distinctive theological and pastoral gifts on display. MultiChurch provides an excellent framework for continued discussion around the multisite church model, while maintaining a consistent doctrinal grounding in the discipline of ecclesiology. Finally, the book strikes a sound balance between helpful encouragement and honest critique of the ever-growing and changing landscape of church practice. I am convinced any leader in a multisite church will benefit from this book! * DR. TODD ENGSTROM, executive pastor of ministry strategies, The Austin Stone Community Church *Frankly, I’ve been chilling on multi-site models. But Allison and House have reignited the topic in ways that are prescient and defrosting to one’s iced-over imagination. MultiChurch bears weight too, knowing that the audience must find simplicity in the theological and ecclesiological complexities. Yet, Allison and House are at their best navigating between ambiguity and clarity, polity and missiology; and then gently escorting us to a perch from which we can glimpse “multichurch.” If you are struggling with multisite models, polity perplexities, or how to take practical steps forward, get this book! * DAVE HARVEY, executive director of Sojourn Network, teaching pastor at Summit Church in Naples, founder AmICalled.com, and author of When Sinners Say I Do; & Letting Go: Rugged Love for Wayward Souls (@RevDaveHarvey) *Gregg Allison and Brad House add valuable data and insight to the nascent research and critique of item multisite movement. It's an increasingly significant part of the local church landscape, and it's not going away anytime soon. Whether you are currently leading a multisite church, considering launching one, or attending one, this book will help you better understand the opportunities and challenges that come with a multisite ministry. * LARRY OSBORNE, pastor and author, North Coast Church, Vista, CA *Gregg Allison and Brad House have written a thoughtful and helpful book for those who are seriously considering the future of multisite, which they call MultiChurch. As a pastor of a multisite church that has transitioned into a family of churches, I can say that what they have written here will be extremely helpful for those interested in wrestling with the theological and practical considerations involved in leading multiple congregations toward church health. * HARVEY TURNER, founding pastor of Living Stones Churches, lead pastor of Living Stones Reno, Acts 29 US West Leadership Team *If you're doing multisite or plan to in the future---stop now and read MultiChurch! Allison and House will save you thousands of dollars, and hours in multisite pain and dumb tax. In the process, they give a remedy to the multisite movement's greatest need---a theologically grounded and implication-rich response to multisite's most challenging questions. If you want to move past adding sites and venues to multiplying disciples, leaders, and churches, read MultiChurch and apply. * BRIAN FRYE, national collegiate strategist, North American Mission Board *Now in its third decade, the multisite movement began as a radical idea to solve church facility restrictions and has now become a mainstream strategy for all kinds of churches. The authors of MultiChurch: Exploring the Future of Multisite have served this movement well by describing its evolution, naming its distinct expressions, addressing its criticisms, and charting a course forward for a movement that is not slowing down and is continually morphing. Written by a seasoned multisite practitioner and a hands-on theologian, House and Allison address the multiple challenges of a multisite church and provide an invaluable roadmap for church leaders wherever they are on their multisite journey. This is a must-read book for multisite church leaders! * JIM TOMBERLIN, pastor, author, multisite pioneer, and consultant; founder, MultiSite Solutions *This is the book every pastor and elder team should read---whether they are currently leading or thinking about starting a multisite church. It’s grounded in Scripture and highly practical. I am thrilled Brad and Gregg wrote this book. It’s a gift to Jesus’s Church. * ELLIOT GRUDEM, founder and president, Leaders Collective *Table of ContentsIntroduction: Multichurch Section 1: Understanding MultiChurch Chapter 1: History of Multichurch Chapter 2: Multichurch under Investigation Chapter 3: Foundations of Multichurch Chapter 4: Models of Multichurch Section 2: Vision for MultiChurch Chapter 5: Multichurch as a New Wine Skin Chapter 6: Multimember Section 3: Practice of MultiChurch Chapter 7: Multichurch Organization Chapter 8: Multichurch Ministry Chapter 9: Multichurch Leadership Development Chapter 10: Multichurch Polity Chapter 11: Multichurch Finances Section 4: Transition to MultiChurch Chapter 12: Conclusions and Next Steps: Implementing Multichurch

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Book SynopsisThe SCM Studyguide: Practical Skills for Ministry offers a practical introduction for those who are training for ministry, both lay and ordained, within the church. The book answers the questions asked by those preparing for ministry and by those who have recently started and found gaps in the way they have been prepared. The author uses real examples drawn from his experience of over 20 years of pastoral ministry, together with work in chaplaincy and broadcasting and the shared experience of others. The book covers all those aspects of ministry required within the more practical contextual areas of the course of preparation for ministry in use by mainstream denominations, such as baptisms, weddings, working with others, communication, meetings and funerals. It provides practical guidance which is soundly theologically and pastorally based.Trade Review'This is one of those books which does exactly what it says on the cover. It is not a theology of ministry, nor is it a source of models and approaches: instead, Andrew Pratt distils into a little under 200 pages a career’s worth of practical experience of the bread-and-butter issues of ministry. How soon to visit after a bereavement? How to respond when someone asks you to baptize their dog? How to arrange the seating in a meeting so as to get the best dynamic?' Roger Latham (Lancashire and Cumbria Theological Partnership)

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Book SynopsisFresh Expressions of Church are one of the most important developments within the contemporary church. There has been and continues to be much learning about how to plant Fresh Expressions of church in contemporary culture and about theological resources to support this. Church for Every Context is the first textbook that reflects this learning.Church for Every Context addresses the theology and methodology of Fresh Expressions/church planting. Topics include ecclesiology, Fresh Expressions in the New Testament, social forces behind Fresh Expressions today, theologies to underpin fresh expressions, how fresh expressions develop, the missional dynamics involved, discipleship, worship and how Fresh Expressions can be sustained and supported.Trade Review‘This is a brilliant work, and as invaluable as it is brilliant. A logical and mature continuation of the seminal Mission-Shaped Church report of 2004, Church for Every Context is the most insightful, informing, and instructive study I have seen to date on emergence ecclesiology and contextual church. It is, in sum, absolutely exhilarating both in its balanced, analytical content and in its vision for the future of the Church.’ Phyllis Tickle, author, The Great EmergenceMichael Moynagh offers both an analysis and an apology for new forms of church that is well grounded in the cultural realities of the 21st century, arguing that these emerging ecclesial communities are not only faithful to scripture and tradition, but are also characterized by a theologically grounded cultural engagement. Supported by comprehensive references and suggestions for further reflection, this book will inspire and inform newcomers to the conversation as well as those who are already a part of it. -- John DraneMichael Moynagh has produced a remarkable book that looks set to become a standard text on the fresh expressions and emerging churches that are exploring new ways of engaging contextually with a changing culture. Comprehensive in its coverage, inter-disciplinary in its approach, painstakingly researched and clearly argued, practitioners and researchers alike will find this invaluable. -- Stuart Murray WilliamsChurch for Every Context is a big book in every sense: the fruit of mature reflection and wisdom on major new movements in Church and in God's mission. It has a global and a biblical perspective on these movements. The chapters are well rooted historically and full of stories and examples of good practice. I commend it very warmly indeed to beginners in this field and to those who are experts. -- Steven CroftMike Moynagh has rendered a service to us all. He covers so much that is at the heart of our debates about the Church, her nature, ministry and mission. We can all agree with the aims he sets out: discipleship, worship and community in sustainable churches. If the way to get there as the Church of England is disputed, then this book demonstrates that a theological discussion is well and truly under way. -- Andrew Davison“Michael Moynagh is an experienced watcher of both church and culture, and this well-read, learned and thoughtful book provides an invaluable and comprehensive guide to contemporary debates over new forms of church.” -- Graham TomlinThere is no such thing as theology, and that means that there is no such thing as ecclesiology. There is only contextual theology and contextual understandings and practices of church. This is the powerful insight behind what Michael Moynagh calls the "New Contextual Churches." A Church for All Contexts is a book that shows the significance of churches that seek to incarnate "fresh expressions" of Christian community as community in mission. Moynaugh and Harrold show clearly that these new ways of thinking about and doing church are not so much innovations but movements radically faithful to Christian Tradition, most especially because they are radically faithful to the present always-changing context of faithful discipleship of Jesus Christ. This is an exciting book. Its rootedness in Tradition make it revolutionary. If you want to be a member of the church today, this book should be required reading. -- Stephen BevansMichael Moynagh has provided an excellent understanding of the background of and rationale behind the Fresh Expressions movement, highlighting many of the issues the existing church is facing in relating to a rapidly changing culture. While highly prizing the value of the traditional forms of church, he wrestles with the extent of flexibility that out to be accorded new forms of the church, while not compromising the gospel. -- Al BarthMoynagh has written an indispensable book on contextual church planting and renewal. We have needed a book like this for some time now -- a historical, theological, and sociological guide to new expressions of faith within Western culture. This is not a 'how-to' book on church renewal and planting techniques -- anything but. Moynagh does so much more than play with church forms and encourage consumer analysis. Moynagh's approach to new expressions of church is theologically rich and missiologically astute, revealing a systematic way to think about church in a post-Christendom context. I plan to use this book as a core reference text in my seminary church planting course this Fall. Highly recommended. -- Dr. Ryan K. Bolger, PhD * Fuller Theological Seminary *The book is full of many concrete examples and is wonderfully comprehensive in scope. Each chapter contains multiple "For reflection" sections, which extend critical points into critical application. Also, each chapter ends with readings for further study and a set of discussion questions. This text will broaden every reader's comprehension of new contextual churches and will challenge all to think deeply about mission, context, and church. Without a doubt, this will become the standard text for study of new contextual ecclesiology. -- Christopher Flanders * Mission Studies 31 *

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Book SynopsisChurches today face unique challenges as they seek to help young people engage with the Christian faith and youth workers, whether employed or volunteer, play a key role in supporting this process. This book provides a comprehensive overview of Christian youth work, drawing together practice, theory and theology in a format which is both engaging and informative. Serving as both a text and workbook, it brings together key youth ministry thinkers and grass-roots practitioners to explore significant themes and issues. It will be invaluable to those thinking about youth work at a strategic level as well as youth work practitioners. Each of the sixteen chapters is followed by a response written from a different perspective, modelling reflective practice and theological reflection. Topics covered include mission, church, adolescent identity, appropriate relationships, spiritual practices, youth culture, pastoral care, work with families, education, leadership and management, inclusive youtTrade ReviewA highly theoretical & yet deeply practical book. I cannot recommend this highly enough to anyone engaged in, or caring about, youth work in the UK. Get hold of your copy today. -- Gavin CalverOne of the biggest challenges facing the church today is how to connect with a generation of young people who have no prior experience of any sort of faith. The particular strength of this book is its combination of theological reflection with insights from the social sciences, and all of it grounded in the experience of practitioners working in diverse cultural contexts. -- John DraneTable of Contents1. Being a Christian Youth Worker: Finding Ourselves by Losing Ourselves Nick Shepherd 2. Being a Reflective Practitioner and Lifelong Learner: Pursuing Wisdom and Fruitfulness Sally Nash 3. Youth Culture: A Theoretical Examination for the Sake of Ministry with Young People Andrew Root 4. Theological Inquiry in Christian Youth Work Jeremy Thompson 5. Christian Youth Work and the Kingdom of God Graeme McMeekin 6. Inclusive Youth Work Andrew Smith 7. Adolescent Identity Development Amy Jacober 8. Appropriate Relationships: 'Like a Friend' Sam Richards 9. The Church Matt Brain 10. Spiritual Practices and Faith Formation Jo Whitehead 11. Holistic Pastoral Care Karen Jones 12. Mission Terry Linhart 13. Education and Curriculum Simon Davies 14. Working with Families Colin Bennett 15. Ethical Dilemmas and Practice Paul Nash 16. Leadership and Management Liz Dumain

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Book SynopsisBy listening carefully to the lived experiences of people with severe mental health problems, Finding Jesus in the Storm will open up new understandings and perspectives that challenge current assumptions and draws out fresh perspectives for care, healing, recovery and community.Trade Review"John Swinton has clearly become the premier pastoral theologian of our time" -- Stanley Hauerwas“John Swinton has listened well to Christians who have struggled with the unrelenting storms of severe mental health challenges. He has heard them tell of their experiences of the presence of God, and of the seeming absence of God, and of faith that grapples with the tensions between the two. 'Finding Jesus in the Storm' provides a ‘thick’ description of Christian experiences of depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Drawing on the author’s experiences as mental health nurse, minister, and practical theologian, these accounts are engaged in conversation with both professional and Christian perspectives, scanning the horizons of mental health care, Christian Scripture, tradition, and church life. This book provides a unique, and hard won, account of journeys through deeply troubled waters. It is essential reading for all who are dissatisfied with superficial and second-hand Christian accounts of mental illness.” -- Christopher CH Cook, Durham University, UK“In this remarkable book, John Swinton not only takes the spiritual lives of those living with mental health challenges seriously, he weaves together a beautiful, reflective theology of the cross and resurrection in the light of these experiences. This important and timely book is a must read for all of us who seek to live faithfully in the world today.” -- Paula Gooder, Chancellor, St Paul's Cathedral“Finding Jesus in the Storm is a masterful, wise, clear, and compassionate look at the experience of those struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, and the thin ways these are often described by mental health professionals, Western culture, and the church. Helped by refreshing philosophical insights, we are invited to listen to thicker descriptions of who these people are in relation to a theological, as well as a clinical horizon, and to better understand biblical healing—finding joy in Jesus while suffering. This book should be widely read.” -- John R. Peteet, MD, Harvard Medical School“Finding Jesus in the Storm first of all listens deeply, or, as John Swinton says, ‘thickly,’ to people with mental health challenges and helps a reader see, broaden, and reconstruct both the ways that people of faith might walk with people with mental challenges as well as help people with mental health challenges explore the spiritual dimensions of their own journey. As someone who has both worked with others and my own mental health challenges, this felt very real. Using insights from psychology, sociology, theology, and other disciplines, Swinton once again breaks past multiple forms of stigma and unexamined assumptions to help readers enter a space where we can once again see each other as children of God—pilgrims—doing the best we can to live into the embrace of God’s love.” -- Bill Gaventa, author of 'Disability and Spirituality: Recovering Wholeness'

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Trade Review"This powerful book understands that the personal is political and the political is theological. Its authors offer a challenge to power and privilege in the church, daring to imagine God’s justice in its place. Their celebration of how far we have come, after 20 years of Inclusive Church, is tempered by the truth of how far we still have to journey before we are a church that honours the God of the margins, a church that has room for all God’s people. “The work is not finished,” in Fiona MacMillan’s words, “but something has begun”. -- Naomi Lawson-Jacobs"...brings together cries from the depths of exclusion, pain and grief, with a burning vision of God’s expansive love and grace, in a prophetic, multi-voiced, gospel call to repentance, belonging, justice and joy. Let the Spirit, through the pages of this book, encourage and challenge you, teach and transform you, and even – miracle of miracles – give you hope for the Church!" -- Al BarrettTable of ContentsContributors Foreword – Rachel Mann Introduction - Dan Barnes-Davies 1 ‘What is Inclusion?’ by Ruth Wilde 2 ‘Belonging Together’ by Michael Jagessar 3 ‘Building Bridges’ by Ruth Hunt 4 ‘Poverty Has a Woman’s Face’ by Loretta Minghella 5 ‘Dismantling Whiteness & Deconstructing Mission Christianity’ by Anthony Reddie 6 ‘Still Calling from the Edge’ by Fiona MacMillan 7 ‘What Might a Trans-Affirming Church look like?’ by Jack Woodruff 8 ‘Carnival and Chaos!’ by June Boyce-Tillman 9 ‘The Church of the Future’ by Ruth Wilde Epilogue – ‘Beyond Inclusion’ – An Interview with Nick Bundock

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Book SynopsisA hands-on resource for both large and small churches It has been predicted that in the twenty-first century extremely large churches would emerge in America that resemble neither an elephant nor a field of mice. Which is better? At one time the answer would have been either/or. Now it's both/and.Table of ContentsList of Tables and Figures. About Leadership Network. Preface. Acknowledgments. Introduction to Both. 1. The Extreme World. 2. The Fallacy of Either/Or. 3. The Beauty of Both/And. 4. The Emerging Blends. 5. The Convergence of Intimacy and Impact. Notes. The Author.

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Book SynopsisAngela Reed is Assistant Professor of Practical Theology and Director of Spiritual Formation at George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University. She holds a Ph.D. from Princeton Theological Seminary and has experience in spiritual direction and pastoral ministry.Trade ReviewAngela Reed has done churches a monumental favour by reminding us that the ancient practice of spiritual guidance is not just for mystics and monks. Reed places spiritual guidance in the middle of congregations, and moves the task of Christian discernment straight to the top of the list of tasks confronting postmodern congregations. Chock-full of practical strategies and concrete examples, Quest for Spiritual Community re-imagines Christian leadership - not as a source of therapeutic or moralistic advice - but as conduit for practical wisdom, wonder, and awe. All I can say is: it's about time. -- Kenda Creasy Dean, Author of Almost Christian: What the Faith of Our Teenagers Is Telling the American Church (Oxford), Professor of Youth, Church and Culture, Princeton Theological Seminary, USA.Angela Reed honors the contemporary phenomenon of spiritual seeking as a sign of genuine hunger for encounter with the Divine. She claims that historic Christian practices like spiritual guidance can help churches connect seekers to the unfolding mystery of God's presence and activity in the world. Drawing on Scripture, the history of Christian spirituality, and empirical research Reed develops a sound practical theology of spiritual guidance and offers concrete examples of how guidance is practiced in everyday congregational life. Most welcome is her emphasis on the integration of interior and exterior growth, as she demonstrates how spiritual guidance promotes the flourishing of the individual, the community, and the church's mission. This is a wonderfully helpful and insightful book. -- Timothy Hessel - Robinson, Brite Divinity School, USAProfessor Angela Reed offers a unique contribution to the field of spiritual formation studies by making a compelling case for locating spiritual guidance ministries squarely in the midst of congregational life. Though she values (and practices) one-with-one spiritual direction, her deepest passion is for communal formation. Given the stresses and fractures of contemporary life, nothing short of a vibrant community of spiritual practice will satisfy the longings of our hearts and shape the image of Christ in people of faith today. Though many studies in spiritual formation draw upon the rich tradition of Roman Catholic resources, Reed takes the less traveled route by focusing especially on Protestant history and perspectives - mainline, evangelical and Anabaptist-Mennonite streams. Extensive biblical reflections, in-depth exploration of Jurgen Moltmann's theology of formation, as well as on-the-ground research support her vision. Perhaps one of the most unusual features of the book is its exploration of a widely disparate group of spiritual guides - the Apostle Paul, Julian of Norwich, Susanna Wesley, Maria Frelinghuysen Cornell, and Dietriech Bonhoeffer - in search of a sturdy framework for communal formation. Reed demonstrates her own thesis that an improvisatory approach is needed for the future. Pastors and other spiritual leaders will need to be light on their feet - able to read their contexts, draw from deep wells of wisdom and practice, and be open to the Spirit's fresh guidance in order to shape Christians who will authentically be and do God's mission in the world. Practical theologians like Angela Reed give me great hope for the church. Her gentle wisdom, luminous clarity, and passion for the church will guide both congregations and academic institutions into a faith-filled future. -- Marlene Kropf, Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary, USA.Quest for Spiritual Community is no mere research report... Rather than laying out a rigid programmatic agenda, Reed offers a way to understand the congregation as God's primary locus for spiritual guidance... she is a trustworthy guide who helps us ponder how cultivating spiritual guidance in our congregations might cause spiritual maturity to flourish. -- Christian CenturyReed's continual integration of the real-life experiences of the participants in congregational spiritual guidance helped make the text more personal... -- Journal of Spiritual Formation & Soul CareBy tackling a myriad of complex and intriguing questions, Baylor University professor Angela Reed attempts to place the growing interest in spiritual direction firmly within the context of the local church while simultaneously curbing some of the individualistic strains within the movement as Protestants seek to rediscover the ancient art of spiritual direction/guidance…by seeking to bring the spiritual direction conversation home to its proper resting place in the church, Reed provides a welcome contribution and a much-need corrective to the on-going practices of spiritual direction. -- Jason A. Carter, University of Edinburgh * The Expository Times *Table of ContentsIntroduction:; Chapter 1: Understanding the Contemporary Spiritual Search: Spirituality for Communities in a Culture of Individuals.; Chapter 2: Hearing their Stories: Spiritual Guidance Practices in Congregations; Chapter 3: Historical Models of Spiritual Guidance: Uncovering Practices of Soul Care for Persons and Communities; Chapter 4: A Protestant Theology of Spiritual Guidance: Insights from Jurgen Moltmann and Miroslav Volf on the Trinity and Christian Community; Chapter 5: The Pastor as Spiritual Guide: Becoming a Spiritual Leader of a Congregation.; Chapter 6: Toward a Congregation-Based Model for Spiritual Guidance: Pragmatic Suggestions for Churches Seeking to Address the Contemporary Spiritual Quest; Conclusion:.

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Book SynopsisPaul Avis has served as the General Secretary of the Church of England's Council for Christian Unity, Theological Consultant to the Anglican Communion Office, London, and Canon Theologian of Exeter Cathedral. He is an honorary professor in the Department of Theology and Religion, University of Exeter, a Chaplain to HM Queen Elizabeth II and editor-in-chief of the journal Ecclesiology.Trade ReviewThere is much wisdom here to inform and guide and shape an episcopal ministry that will be of benefit to the whole church. * The Expository Times *Paul Avis, one of Anglicanism’s leading ecclesiologists, has provided a great gift to anyone called to become a bishop. With a remarkably light touch, he has applied his considerable scholarship to the lived realities of episcopal ministry, combining a deep understanding of the shape of the Church with pearls of practical wisdom drawn from years of observing bishops in a host of different contexts. The result is an attractive and accessible study that will help bishops from churches across the world to go on becoming more fully the bishops God has called them to be. * Christopher Cocksworth, Bishop of Coventry, Church of England *In 2013, the Anglican Church of Southern Africa, declared that year, 'A year of Theological Education'. This raised untapped financial resources for our Province but also laid bare the dearth in levels of understanding, what the Church is and in particular, the Episcopate. Our Synodical structures, addressed these questions by setting up amongst others, the Canon Law Council to educate bishops and others about church order. In fact, a far cry from the people’s wrestling. All they were yearning for was, an account of what is a bishop and the bishop’s role in democratic Southern Africa as we together lead the church’s mission? Paul’s book is the resource we were searching for. Becoming a Bishop is clearly and effectively written, theologically rigorous and yet accessible book. It is imbued with pastoral wisdom and will be helpful to the Bishops of the Anglican Communion around the world, and indeed to bishops and those likely to be bishops of all Christian tradition. At home, it will aptly address the questions our year of theological education raised and equip not only bishops but all the Laos. I highly recommend Becoming a Bishop. I will in the first instance, purchase a copy for each bishop within my province so that they may benefit from this well of wisdom. * Thabo Makgoba, Archbishop of Cape Town, Anglican Church of Southern Africa *Becoming a Bishop is a worthy book for the person just elected to episcopal office and for the bishop approaching their silver anniversary. It is so because it invites the reader to enter afresh the living tradition of episcopal ministry. In particular I found Paul Avis's exposition of the public, personal and private life of the bishop to be invitational, so that the reader really wants to grow into the fullness of their vocation. The author reminds us that episcopal ministry involves teaching, sanctifying and governing, yet he never loses sight of the humanity of the bishop. Not only is this a helpful book for bishops, new and experienced; it is also a book I recommend to dioceses which are praying for the right appointment or election that they may be served well and the flock of Christ kept together. The chapter on the collaborative ministry of bishops could well be enjoyed by bishops on retreat or at a study conference. * Victoria Matthews, Bishop of Christ Church, Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia *Paul Avis has hit the nail squarely on the head! In Becoming A Bishop he invites the reader to reflect on the order and ministry of bishop. He suggests -rightly, I believe -that the church should primarily think about episcopacy in terms of a reasoned consideration of scripture, tradition, ecumenical agreements, all in light of God’s mission for the church and the world. This book will make an invaluable resource for bishops and all with a stake in the mission and ministry of the church. Highly recommended. * Franklin Brookhart, Bishop of Montana, The Episcopal Church, USA *There is tremendous insight and wisdom throughout this book ... Dr Avis’s book highlights the need that still exists for an extended systematic theological handbook of texts ... that will help further to shape and expand our Anglican understandings of the episcopate, and so contribute to the well-being not just of bishops, but also of our common life. * Theology Journal *Table of ContentsForeword: The Right Revd Dr Kenneth Kearon, Bishop of Limerick and Killaloe, Church of Ireland; former Secretary General of the Anglican Communion Preface 1.'The office and work of a bishop in the Church of God' 2. The bishop's identity and tasks 3. The bishop's authority 4. The bishop in leadership 5. The bishop and collaborative ministry 6. The bishop in the Anglican Communion 7. The bishop and Christian unity 8. The bishop and the historic episcopate 9. The bishop as scholar and theologian 10. The bishop in the public square 11. The bishop and the liturgy Index of names

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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In this examination of the ethical significance of preaching, Charles Campbell provides both fresh insights into the relationship between preaching and ethics and a challenging moral vision for the contemporary church. Moving beyond a narrow focus on moral decision-making or social-issues sermons, Campbell argues that a particular...

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Book SynopsisWhat can preachers learn from the art of radio broadcasting? How can preachers develop more imaginative patterns of speaking? Jolyon Mitchell analyzes religious broadcasting in Britain and America, exploring how the speaker can create pictures with words and engage listeners in multisensory ways. This book offers theological insights and...

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Book SynopsisNow in reissue with a new foreword by Fred B. Craddock and afterword by the author, Eugene L. Lowry, The Homiletical Plot, Expanded Edition follows in the same solid tradition of its predecessor. Upon its release, The Homiletical Plot quickly became a pivotal work on the art of preaching. Instead of comments on a biblical passage, Lowry...

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Book SynopsisIn this important and groundbreaking book, Richard Osmer develops a practical theology of the teaching ministry. He begins by exploring the teaching ministry of the apostle Paul, identifying in Paul's letters to his congregations the core tasks of the teaching ministry: catechesis, exhortation, and discernment. Next he presents case studies of...

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Book SynopsisEllen Davis is concerned by what she calls a "shallow reading" of Scripture--a reading of what we think we already know instead of an attempt to dig deeper for new insights and revelations. Wondrous Depth is a collection of essays in which Davis argues for a more engaged reading of Scripture that opens the reader up to new knowledge and...

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Book SynopsisThis wonderful collection of sermons by renowned preacher, author, and speaker Barbara Brown Taylor is based on the Gospel of Matthew. Each of the fifteen sermons, three of them appearing here for the first time in print, is based on a reading from Matthew, including "Exceeding Righteousness" (Matthew 5:17-20), "The Problem with Miracles"...

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Book SynopsisIn this helpful book, Boyung Lee offers an encouraging vision of the mainline church's future. Lee grapples with some of the greatest challenges facing the mainline church, offering compelling responses to recurring questions: What does faithfulness to the gospel look like in this changing world? What is our distinctive voice in the larger...

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Book SynopsisWhere have all the prophets gone? And why do preachers seem to shy away from prophetic witness? Astute preacher Leonora Tisdale considers these vexing questions while providing guidance and encouragement to pastors who want to recommit themselves to the task of prophetic witness. With a keen sensitivity to pastoral contexts, Tisdale's work is...Trade Review"In Prophetic Preaching Nora Tisdale is at her best." Cleophus J. LaRue, Princeton Theological Seminary "A rich and welcome reflection on the nature of preaching. Enormously instructive [and] energizing." Walter Brueggemann, Emeritus, Columbia Theological Seminary

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Book SynopsisThe Practice of Pastoral Care has become a popular seminary textbook for courses in pastoral care and a manual for clinical pastoral education. In it, Doehring encourages counselors to view their ministry through a trifocal lens that incorporates premodern, modern, and postmodern approaches to...Trade Review"A remarkable contribution. Somehow Dr. Doehring is able to weave together the threads of theology, trauma, mental health, culture, self-reflection, research, and practice into a beautiful piece of work that constantly reminds the reader of the distinctively spiritual character of pastoral care. The book is filled with evocative stories, useful concepts, practical tools, and always, Dr. Doehring's own distinctive voice, wisdom, and humanity. Highly recommended for not only pastoral counselors, but counselors from every helping profession." --Kenneth I. Pargament, Professor of Psychology, Bowling Green State University; author of Spiritually Integrated Psychotherapy: Understanding and Addressing the Sacred; and Editor-in-Chief, APA Handbook of Psychology, Religion, and Spirituality (Vols. 1 and 2) "In this revised and expanded edition of her extensively read text, The Practice of Pastoral Care, Professor Carrie Doehring offers a clear and insightful explanation of intercultural pastoral and spiritual care. The book's lucid prose makes it accessible for beginning students who are taking introductory courses. At the same time, Doehring's richly nuanced conversation with current literature in the field makes the book an indispensable resource for seasoned scholars. Doehring unpacks the meaning of spirituality in lived experience, using examples and diagrams and making reference to stories and films that help the reader understand the intersection of psychological, cultural, and theological dimensions of pastoral and spiritual care. She emphasizes the values of respect and compassion and teaches us how to embody these values in caregiving conversations and interactions. This is an eminently practical and wise guide for those learning to offer life-giving care." --Mary Clark Moschella, Roger J. Squire Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling, Yale Divinity School "What was already a number-one go-to book in pastoral care has become even better in this new edition. I am especially grateful to see such an expert teacher, scholar, and caregiver tackle the question of theology-as-practiced in a way that readers will find immensely useful. This book reflects years of accumulated wisdom and real sensitivity to both personal suffering and intercultural dynamics, and is a classic in the field." --Bonnie J. Miller-McLemore, author of Christian Theology in Practice "In this revised and expanded edition, Carrie Doehring makes another remarkable contribution to pastoral theology and to contemporary practices of pastoral care. Using a narrative approach, she provides rich interdisciplinary and current resources for engaging the complex and intersecting differences that shape contexts for care as well as the embodied relationality of those who give and receive such care. Her experienced skill as a teacher shapes each chapter accessibly. Doehring artfully demonstrates the practice of intercultural care as a theologically reflective and co-creative process that seeks spiritual integration and relational justice." --Nancy J. Ramsay, Professor of Pastoral Theology and Pastoral Care, Brite Divinity School "I welcome this new edition from a leader and pioneer in the field of contemporary pastoral care. Its rich interweaving of narrative, literature, autobiography and cutting-edge theology promises to enrich and challenge practitioners in church and academy for years to come." --Elaine Graham, Grosvenor Research Professor of Practical Theology, University of Chester, UK "A carefully constructed and nuanced articulation of the essential features and dynamic operations of pastoral and spiritual care. Whilst not neglecting historic resources, Doehring helps situate the practice of care squarely in contemporary postmodern and pluralist settings drawing on narrative, intercultural and theological engagements with the complex exigencies of human experience. Spiritual caregivers of all kinds must have, read and digest this book." --Emmanuel Y. Lartey, L. Bevel Jones III Professor of Pastoral Theology, Care, and Counseling, Candler School of Theology, Emory University

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